Frome Congress - Sunday
So there I was on the Sunday with genuine chances. I felt reasonably confident but there was still a long way to go.
In the morning I faced a guy who was playing in his first Congress that weekend but he did show some very good calculational skills. Anyway, here it is:
And more good news for me! The only person with more points than me drew! So going into the final round there were 7 people on 3.5 (if you're paying attention, it means that it's quite likely that I got the numbers wrong earlier). A win was essential if I was to get a chance of sharing first place.
Over lunch I ranted (again) about 2 things:
1) In the open, it happens that people blunder queens. Why does that not happen to me in the minor?
1) In the open, it happens that people blunder queens. Why does that not happen to me in the minor?
2) I really dislike playing against a Colle. It's naff and boring. Since I'd be entering the final round as black, I was adamant I would not face 1. d4 and certainly not a Colle.
To that end, I declared very clearly, "I will not face a Colle and my opponent will blunder his queen." What do you think?
"I'm gonna go for it"... Fantastic! Don't get me wrong, I absolutely admire the courage to sac a queen when you're not sure it's winning, but wow!
Just to round off the story, that means that 3 people (including me) tied for first. There was an impressive turn around by one player, and a crushing defeat by another... And me. The 7th player on 3.5 was quickly beaten by a solid attack on h7 by one of the juniors at the event.
So remember, you'll need to believe that your opponent will blunder!
