Match play scenarios

Setup

1. Pair players up. Each 'hole' starts from a spot off the green, 10 to 40 m from a flag, chosen by the coach.
2. Explain match play scoring: each hole is won by the lower score, or halved if level. The match score is holes up or down (for example '2 up with 3 to play'); it ends when one player is more holes up than there are holes left.
3. Explain the order of play: the player farther from the hole plays first. If a player plays out of turn, the opponent may let the shot stand or ask for it to be replayed in the right order, without penalty.
4. Explain concessions: a player may concede the opponent's next stroke, a hole or the match. A concession can't be declined or taken back, and the conceded ball is picked up.

How it runs

1. The coach reads a scenario card before each hole, such as 'You are 1 down with 2 to play' or 'Your opponent is already 2 m away in two shots'.
2. Both players play the hole from the spot. Before each shot, the player says what the scenario means for their choice: attack the flag or make sure of a two-putt.
3. Play six holes, keeping the match score aloud after each one ("A1 one up, three to play").
4. Practise concessions: if the opponent's ball is very close, decide whether to concede it or make them putt, and say why.
5. Only one player swings at a time; the other stands to the side, out of the line of the shot and clear of the swing.

Coaching points

• Watch the opponent's result before choosing your shot: if they're in trouble, play safe; if they're close, you may need to attack.
• A hole lost by a lot counts the same as a hole lost by one shot, so take risks when the hole is already slipping away.
• Concede short putts as a sign of good sportsmanship, but you never have to; some players make opponents putt early on to test them.
• Keep the score clear and agreed after every hole to avoid arguments later.

Common mistakes

• Playing the same safe shot in every situation, whatever the match score.
• Playing out of turn and not realising the opponent can make you replay it.
• Mentally giving up a hole too early.