Good Finish but missed oppurtunity

I finished 20th in a field over 2500 in a $2.20 MTT at pokerstarts this weekend. Won over $20.00 but admittedly played a little scared at the end of the game.

With about 25 left in the table I was chip leader but only at my table. I didnt even realize that I wasnt that much over Tourney average... and then I got moved to different table with some huge stacks.

Anyways with the $800 1st place prize money starting me in the face I tightened up and was playing with scared money. Ive had good finishes before but I think the difference is this time my bankroll is low because i did a cashout before christmas. Next time Im playing to win and not waiting on AA or KK for hands.

Congrats on the nice finish. I typically find myself doing the same as you did when I am going deep in a tourney. I keep telling myself that the next time I play Im not going to play with scared money, however, I always tend to wait around for big hands. You have to continue to play your game and be prepared for variance in any tourney.

i know what youre saying. HOH, the endgame chapters, has helped me a lot in that area. highly recommended.

I definitely have the same problem. I think that's why I'm not running so well at the end of the tourneys. I do okay up to the point of making the money, but when there are about 20-30 people left I start to lose it, and it's probably for that reason.

Ah you guys still go deeper than me... im still trying to get past the bubble! :/ I am the definition of scared money.

its good to know self leaks or mistakes, i think you will do better next time

thats the way to improve your skills

Congrats first! keep up the good work and do learn from your mistakes and dont repeat it again!
GL in future!