A Clarkmeister Play: The Ace High

[SmileyPSU]

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Can you explain why it is a must bet? I don't have any indication that I am ahead of SB, and I am probably ahead of the Button.

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You may not be ahead but you're betting to take control of the hand, hoping to induce a fold from a better hand. You say SB only comes along when he's got a hand, so his response to your bet will give you a clear cut answer as to where you're at. You have no indication you're ahead but what indication do you have that you are behind? Bet out and let him tell you where he's at.

Betting also lets you know where you are at vs. Button, given reads.

Bet this flop as a semi-bluff. Hopefully you fold out both players. If Button comes along or raises you've got to rely on reads to know what to do next. If Sb comes along or raises, you've got to hit your straight draw on the turn or get out.

Again, the pot's so small. No need to go to war.