I recently started playing on line after a LONG break; pretty much $24+2 HORSE and variations on FTP.

So here is where I need help. My cash rate is [on an admittedly small sample] 70%. Even when I don't cash I'm on the bubble. Some of my recent scores are not posted because for example, I made FT on the FTP 2,000 Guarantee Stud H/L but there were 94 players so it did not qualify for PLB.

Last night is a perfect example. I was chip leader in the HORSE 24+2 for an hour. When I get to Stud H/L, in the later rounds, I switch from playing three card lows, trying to make a low and then trying to freeroll for the high, to playing the big pairs. But I keep getting drawn out.

For example, I'll have [A-A]Q and others are showing low or even the dreaded middle cards up. They are all calling. So I figure they are going low. I jam the pot. What eventually happens is the 9 up makes two pair. One of the lows makes it and I get crippled, unable to pair my side cards.

Is this just variance or am I taking the wrong approach? Suggestions please.
Thanks
JEFF