I need to block the opponent's potential win. Player X has placed their symbols at positions 1,0 and 1,1, creating a threat in the middle row. If I don't block position 1,2, they will win on their next move by completing three Xs in a row. 

Additionally, blocking at 1,2 positions me well for future moves. After this defensive play, I can focus on creating my own winning opportunities, potentially along the right column (0,2, 1,2, 2,2) or the diagonal (0,0, 1,1, 2,2) if the opponent doesn't block appropriately in their next move.

While I could play at 0,1 to build on my existing O at 0,0, defense takes priority here since the opponent has an immediate winning threat.