Sarah Preferences

Was screwing around in dojo and came across an interesting question:

Sarah's only real options to punish +12/+13 is or (or throw)

Both have their advantages with you finish standing with +4 advantage. With you finish in flamingo with +5 advantage. With either finish, because of Sarah's lack of full circular mids, you're going to need a bit of yomi to figure out the proper follow up to continue pressure.

My question: Which do you prefer and why? Standing +4 advantage or Flamingo +5 advantage?

 

I almost always go for , but it's more out of old habit than anything else. I try to use more sometimes since +5 is when FL starts to get good. I still think is probably the better choice if you're always gonna do the same one though.

 

I'd agree that it does come down to preference. with 3pk, you sacrifice a bit of damage for a stronger mixup. Against certain characters (Taka on my mind here), I'd say 3pk is better, just because he has a tougher time dealing with Flamingo options than he does her regular stuff.

On ST, ppk is a pretty optimal punisher, but recently I've only been using 3pk because it sets up FL kk unblockable, FL 6k confirm, and FL K+G, gives +11. I'm not even sure if she really needs the mixup.

 

I think while it ultimately relies on the situation. I prefer because Sarah is specifically designed to be in FL +5. After all, that's when she is strongest. However, if you have a monstrous life lead, why push the issue with FL which is a riskier stance.

leaves you at +4 which means your opponent has far more defensive options including x fuzzy, EDCTC, and you are restricted to your basic mid-throw mix-up that you would have had if you just did a and they blocked.

For me, if I'm already dominating, to play it safe and not over extend myself. The closer in life we both are, I'll probably go simply because it's where Sarah is strongest

 

I use anyone. Sometimes I use and sometimes .