Originally Posted by
Dan Druff
Let's now talk about heads up value betting, which is very important at middle and upper stakes limit holdem games.
In NL, value betting is less important than trapping, getting calls with monster hands, and bluffing.
In limit, value betting is a huge part of being a winner. If you fail to do it, then it will grind you down into being a loser, unless the competition is awful.
Let's take this simple example of a hand I played today:
6-max, 30/60, I'm in the BB with Js5s
Folded to SB, who raised, and I called.
Flop
4h5d6h
SB bets. You should raise here. You likely have the best hand.
Turn:
Qd
Not the best card, as it's possible SB has a queen, and also possible he has diamonds and will act tricky. But you can't fear that. You need to bet here, and call down if raised. SB checks, you bet, he calls.
River:
Qh
This now completes the floped flush draw, but is actually a good card. Why? Because it doesn't introduce a new pair into the situation which beats yours, nor does it make a possible 1-card straight.
SB checks. You need to bet again. You might say, "Wait, he wouldn't call with worse!"
But he would. Remember, the flop was 456, and you raised. The SB will likely suspect you could have a busted straight draw, and very likely call with A or even K high, despite the fact that a flopped flush draw or pair is beating him.
Many will check this behind, but you need to bet here. If raised, you probably need to call, but may be able to fold, player dependent. Most times you will get called with ace high or worse in this spot, so if you're not being raised, there's a high chance you win, unless you're facing a better 5 or a weak 6.
Indeed, my opponent had A9o, called the river, and I took down the pot.