Today, we had a big tournament as usual as we had 53 participants in total. In Section 2, however, we had a huge underdog who dramatically exceeded expectations. Andrew Goldfarb won the section with 2.5 out of 3 points: remaining undefeated whilst only battling players rated 100-200 points higher! The game of that section, however, highlighted by Albert Abzalimov, is between Albert and Arnav Adepu.
Section 2 Report by Albert Abzalimov
This game highlights the importance of trades, central control, and the bishop pair. The light-squared bishop on g2 becomes very important and Black is eventually suffocated by the overwhelming power of the two central pawns.
Although there was some counter-play for black at one point with … Bb4, Re2 and Bh5 which would eventually win the d4 pawn in the center, this was a very interesting game. This game proved to be a common example of how positional advantages, such as the two central pawns in the middle, lend to positions with tactical opportunities. Because of White’s extra space there were simply more chances of winning tactics. In the end, Black was overwhelmed by the two passed pawns and White had too many pieces on the board. This was a very good game as it also shows the importance of early development in the opening. I had a great time at ICA as usual.
Our other featured match is by Yefim Treger: a frequent participant in our report contest. We thank Yefim for his constant contributions and expertise!
Section 1 Report by Yefim Treger
In my second quad in January I played a very dubious and adrenaline opening for Black characterized by the moves 1. e4 g5.
Such a pawn advance to g5 weakens the kingside and creates immediate imbalances. But even in this opening Black actively fights for the center (like in 1…g6 which I play regularly).
The move 1… g5 is also a gambit if White after 2. d4 Bg7 captures an insolent pawn. That happened in my game with Sujia and she had found a very dangerous idea of attacking my king. A little girl simply wanted to checkmate me by the well-known fool mate! (see the left diagram in the picture). I have to admit I was very frightened at that moment! I had spent a lot of time trying to calculate some variations in the positions in the picture. I had decided not to go for them but did not resolve all Black’ problem. That will be detailed in my game with the comments below.
So is my short conclusion. I do not recommend playing such an opening to young students since they do not have enough experience. But if you are brave and love an active tactic play this opening is for you (well, only for some extra adrenaline!)
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