How to play 2 pair/ sets on scary looking flops

[AllinLife]

I come across this situation rather often, and I would like to hear from FTR

you limp in with rags on SB or BB, and I hit

2 pair, but only to find the 3 cards are suited or "straight friendly"

what do you do?

also, when you flop a set under same circumstances what would be the

right move? at level of 10$ nl ring games on Paradise poker. where 4~5

people limp in preflop. thanks

[michael1123]

I always play a set hard on a suited flop, but I guess it depends on the number of people in. If there's 10 players, you're pretty screwed, someone probably has a flush, and then you should probably be thinking like you're on a draw for the board to pair, unless the betting indicates otherwise.

Otherwise, I assume that the callers are on flush draws, and know that high flush draws are extremely more likely than when there's only two to a suit. A small flush should be pushing back pretty hard, at least by the turn, as they'll be worried you have the ace if you're betting. Play it hard, hope for the best, which would be the board pairing along with a 4th card to a flush coming. Same thing for 3 to an open ended straight with a set, because you have many outs. Consider the cards to a straight though, and if they're likely to have them. If a guy raises 3xBB, 3 people call, and the flop is QJT, you definitely have to be concerned with AK. If the same betting happens and the flop is 654, you hardly need to give it a passing thought, unless they are very loose players.

Its different with 2 pair, since its not as likely you'll hit a boat. Make a good size bet and read your opponents.

[SteveO]

Well, you are up front and have to act early on the flop having come from SB or BB. It depends. Assuming loose limpers and 4-5 players to a flop you could have trouble. I think you have to bet pot or 1/2 pot and try to fold everyone right there. If someone comes big over the top release it. Sometimes you'll get someone holding only the A, K or Q to the suit trying to complete their flush on turn or river. Make them pay. If you are up against a low flush and they have any sense it won't be cleverly disguised.

Same with a str8. Those flops can be just as scary to your opponents who may hold TPTK. So you have to bet right out up front.

The other way to play it is to check up front. If your opponents are smart they will put you on a possible slowplay. You may get a free card to try and fill up. However, if they have the nuts they can check too so you have to continue to be cautious on the turn and river.

Sometimes really weak opponents will just check it all the way down and you may win it on the showdown.

In summary, with a scary board you have to think that your opponents may be just as scared as you so fire in a bet or two. Just remember not to fall in love with your set or 2 pair with those types of boards when someone comes after you big.