MTT Money Strategy Question

[TheTank2005]

I have a general MTT Strategy question regarding how to act right around the bubble or right when you get in the money.

Lately I have easily been getting into the money in the Stars MTT Tournaments, generally 10+1 or 20+2 buy-in. The problem is that I don't make it to the final table or even the final 18 that often and I think it is because I am not picking up enough chips before the final 27 or so. And really, I am getting tired of playing these tournaments and making $60 dollars for all my work when 1st pays out a few grand.

So my question is, should I become more aggressive right towards the bubble and at the beginning of the money payout? Or should I stay tight and pick spots to move my money all-in? I am just not quite sure where I need to gamble and where I need to hang tough for an orbit or two till a decent hand appears.

[Marc M]

The general consensus here is that you need to identify players who are trying to fold into the money, and attack their blinds.

[TFGoose]

Hi TheTank2005,

Welcome to the 2+2 Forums. I suggest you read through the stickies at the top of this forum for some general guidelines. There is some wisdom in there pertaining to the topic you've raised here, as a matter of fact.

In general though, correct strategy dictates that you should become more aggressive around the bubble, especially in the presence of people who you believe are doing the opposite. Shove your chips in there and pick up some blinds of players who are tightening up. Once the bubble bursts, it usually pays to knit back up a bit yourself though, as a lot of the shorties who were hanging on for the money will become ultra aggressive all of a sudden, trying to double their stacks and make a break for the big cash. So wait a bit for the nukes to go off, and then get back to playing poker.

--TFGoose

[BigAlK]

[ QUOTE ]
The general consensus here is that you need to identify players who are trying to fold into the money, and attack their blinds.

[/ QUOTE ]

And this obviously has to happen as you're approaching the money bubble. Once the bubble bursts those who are primarily concerned with making the money suddenly get the gambling urge. They've become so short stacked that they have no chance to move up significantly with out doubling. At that point you need to pick your spots based on having a decent hand.