In game 1 of the finals match at the 2017 California State Championships, Steve Sax rolled these double fives while playing Michael Neagu. The score is 0-0 in a match to 11, and Michael is holding the cube on 2.
Video below, position is at 11:19
How would you play these double fives? Comment what you think below!
ANSWER
20/10 7/2(2)
Although the correct play actually wins 5% less games than the safer 20/15(2) 13/8(2) play, it wins about 20% more gammons. With the score being 11-away, 11-away, and the cube on 2, it is definitely worth sacrificing 5% game wins for an increase in gammons of 20%. Even if black enters from the bar immediately, we will have lots of builders to make our four point the next roll.