The limp-shove is a move that normally screams of strength. You can’t limp under the gun and then move in when raised with anything less than Kings, right? While the move works far better when you do have the goods, you have to able to mix your game up or your hand might as well be turned face-up. So when is it a good time to try moving in without the goods?
Firstly, when we discuss limp-shoving ‘without the goods’ we are talking about hands that aren’t A-A, A-K, K-K or Q-Q; so hands such as 6-7 suited, 9-8 offsuit and small pairs would be thrown into the mix. By putting our entire stack in with a less than premium hand, we allow our opponents to think we have a veritable monster. Many have heard the adage ‘beware the early limper’, although it’s impressive how many of them forget that until you give them a gentle reminder by shoving. That alone adds a huge amount of fold equity to the play, and means you can often fold out hands as big as Jacks and A-Q against thinking players.
The move obviously has limitations. Although it represents huge strength, it only does so to thinking players. If you’re playing at a table where hands like K-J suited are being overvalued this move isn’t going to work. Equally, limp-shoving with hands that are going to be easily dominated is a bad idea. Trying to pull this move off with the likes of A-5 suited or K-Q is not going to prove profitable in the long run as you’ll get called too often with a range of hands that leave you crushed. Instead opt for hands where, even if you are called, you’re at least live – so medium to small connectors are preferred to those baby Aces.
The benefit of the early-position limp
Limping with deceptive hands such as 9-8 is also a good option because, if you don’t get a chance to shove preflop, they are easy to play on the flop. Obviously they can flop big, but if you don’t make two pair or trips you can get away from the hand at minimal cost, unlike holding Aces in a multi-way pot. Also, if the hand does get to showdown, you advertise the fact that you’re limping light, allowing you to go for the same move – this time with the goods – at a later stage.
Remember to avoid those easily dominated hands and even more importantly don’t go representing hands to players who frankly don’t care (i.e. maniacs and calling stations). Steer clear of these two pitfalls and limp-shoving without the goods can be your golden ticket next time you find yourself card dead in a tournament.