safety shot

a strategic play where the player aims to leave the opponent with a difficult or low-scoring shot

A safety shot is a strategic move in pool or snooker where a player deliberately avoids trying to pot a ball, instead focusing on positioning the cue ball in a way that makes it difficult for the opponent to take a good shot. This is often used to gain a tactical advantage, especially when a direct shot on the target ball is not possible or would risk leaving an easy shot for the opponent. A well-executed safety shot can force the opponent into making a mistake or leave them with a challenging position to play from.