Cybershuttle
 
Having read your question and comments I wonder whether the phrase “focus” really defines what is happening here?
 
Most players have an element of nerves or apprehension at the beginning of the match. Because of this, there is always a tendency to try to force the point too soon in the rally and kill the shuttle too quickly. The desire to build an early impressive lead or even to have a good start creates unneccessary tension.
 
When you put these into the mix, what happens is the player makes “nervous” mistakes. The additional tension through trying to force the rally to win the point feeds the anxiety and turns hope into a rescue situation.
 
In essence, you need to sit back and play the rallies out by feeling your way into the game. In the early stages you’re also testing your opponents for weakness so there’s an element of trial and error. But, play to your strengths from the first point – that’s if you’ve actually sat down and worked out what they are!
 
I guarantee if you change your initial approach to the game, be a tactical pair and work the game plan patiently, then you will see a reverse in fortune.
 
Let me know what you think.
 
Paul

Let me know what happens during your next few matches.
 
Paul

Dee

It looks like you did a good job here. Well done.

So few players pay attention to the psychlogical aspects of the game and yet it's this critical area that usually determines the end result. This comment is based on players of relatively equal ability. Let's face it, if I had to play singles against Lin Dan it wouldn't exactly be a fair game to assess now would it?

Paul