The problem is when I have strong confidence before the match and expect to win I will get angry if my performance doesn't meet that confidence. So the moment I miss an easy ball I get frustrated and stop thinking straight causing me to loose more points
Yeah, In the USA not knowing the rating is a huge benefit to me. I've lost some matches just because I knew the rating of the other player. I can tell myself I can beat them, but I feel like it becomes some sort of excuse during the match during a tough part.
This is exactly right! You have to BELIEVE. Believe in your skills and believe you can win. I have lost many games against "better" players because I didn't believe. I can exactly remember that that were the thoughts in my mind. You probably have to be arrogant in your own mind.
