Bunker tips: Unplug the plugged lie

Bunker tips

A plugged bunker shot is one where the golfer can feel hard done by, which normally leads to anger and frustration. Being able to escape from this type of lie needs a cool head with a few simple laws.

The swing required will be one that encourages a steeper angle of attack than a normal bunker shot, allowing the club to get to the bottom of the ball.

SHUT FACE, REDUCED BOUNCE

Normally in sand we’d like to open up the clubface. Here we want it closed which helps reduce the bounce angle of the club and get the toe into the sand first.

SQUARE IS THE KEY

Your alignment should be square to the clubface and target line with your feet nicely embedded to create sand awareness. We want everything – feet, shoulders, clubface – square.

STEEP AND STRONG

There is no slipping the club under the ball, rather we want a strong, downward blow. Position the ball back in your stance, get your weight on the front foot and hit down on it.

WATCH IT RUN OUT

This descending blow is likely to cause a curtailed follow through making the ball come out with little or no spin. Get the basics right and the ball will pop out every time.