2021 - Position 5

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Match Play. Red leads 2-0 to 5. How should Red play 44?

There is an old adage in backgammon, “don’t jeopardise a potential cube turn.”

After this roll Red will have the advantage and will be looking to double soon. Given he is leading in the race 20/16(2) is clear with two of the fours. He could purely with 13/9(2) with the other two but that leaves an unnecessary blot which White will hit with any 5 or 41. It also goes against the adage.

Correct is the prosaic 20/16(2), 8/4, 6/2, maintaining a healthy racing lead and also a possible blitzing attack. Meanwhile the four checkers on his mid-point give Red plenty of flexibility to deal with his next few rolls.