What a difference a day makes (for the worst!)

[Bobmysterkaymer]

Played on Thursday at my home course in the semi final of the clubs singles matchplay. I'm off 18 and my opponent 13 so 5 shots to me! The front nine I was 6 up with a gross score of +4!!!! I couldn't miss a fairway or miss hit a shot, everything just clicked! We got to the 12th where we shock hands after winning 7&6! I never felt so good about my swing and confidence was high!
12 hours later I was playing in the saturday medal, full of confidence. Parred the 1st, par3 with a birdie chance, then dropped a shot on the second, still ok! Then the wheels came off with 6's 7's 8's on the next 6 holes, then a par to finish the 9! 51 gross (+15) after shooting +4 the day before GUTTED! Thank god the rain came and the round was cancelled on the 13th, course flooded!
Now the only things I can think why the difference between the two round is...
1:- before the matchplay I practiced 1 hour before hitting shots on the practice hole (which is the 15 hole) this isn't possible before weekend comp but is possible before matchplay.

2:- I felt every shot counted during matchplay, but can't get that mindset for a medal or stableford comp! Every shot in matchplay I felt a little nervous/excited! Medal/s'ford nothing!

How can I motivate (push) myself to perform in medal/stableford comps??

 

[Foxholer]

Never really had the problem as always felt that urge in Medals etc - in fact generally a little too much.

A fellow golfer mentioned that that was the main benefit, to him, from playing in the 'gambling' swindle. The buzz of plying for an amount, that stung bit didn't hurt badly, meant that Medals didn't generate the fear that they used to.

So, if not completely against your morals, try having a small, but significant, wager with a mate in the same state and you'll likely think about every shot - especially if he's in another group.

 

[slicer79]

I've always felt more relaxed in matchplay. I think it's because I know if I mess up a hole all that can happen is one hole lost. But in strokeplay mess up a hole and run up something like an 8 and there's no way back.
Matchplay also gives the chance to be a little more brave and take on some aggressive shots