A well-fought match which could have gone either way, with lots of good ideas shown by the players. I think in most games the advantage changed hands a couple of times – exciting stuff!
I’ve added the PGN file so you can play through the games and variations on your own computer.
[Please ignore the stupid number of page visits, I think someone’s robot threw a wobbly]
{
White eventually took a loose pawn and played good aggressive chess to wrap up.
}
{Black had the advantage but allowed White to stop him castling, when there
was always a mating attack up White’s sleeve.}
{White made good use of his extra space and activity.}
{Black let a pawn advantage slip through his fingers.}
Congratulations to Caleb Caleshu who has won through to the U14 Terafinal of the UK Chess Challenge. Best of luck in the final from all at Devon Junior Chess!
Another close match, well done to all!
Board 1
Board 2
Board 3
Board 4
I’m a bit bored of writing this, but the result doesn’t reflect the closeness of the contests! Great result by Reece, saving us from the whitewash, but some great moves and terrific heart shown by all.
Another close match which could have gone either way.
Some homework study may be required!
{Some simple tactics decided this game. In fact, they are the tactics most
often missed in junior games: discovered check, outnumbered, undermining.}
{WARNING: This next game contains uncut scenes of graphic chess violence. The part of Ming
the Merciless was played by Taylor Finch.}
{A great fightback after losing your way in an unfamiliar opening.}
{In a line you hadn’t faced before, you struggled to find a way to complete
development and be able to keep going forward. In the end, the squares you
lost on the board were less important than the minutes you lost on the clock.}
Dr Dave dug out one of his favourite puzzles, which is actually two puzzles in one (White to play and checkmate Black quickly).
But Dave, which way are the Black pawns going?
It doesn’t matter! It’s mate in three either way.
SOLUTIONS (select below to reveal)
a. bottom left = a1 : 1.Bc6 bxc6 2.Kc8 c5 3.Nc7#
b. bottom left = h8:
1. Kc6 b8=Q 2.Nc7+ Qxc7+ 3. Kxc7#
or 1…b8=N+ 2.Kc7+ Nc6 3.Bxc6#
