Does Anyone Know What's Going On? Alexandr Zaitsev- Two Insane Games. (And Some Rare Pictures!)

Afternoon Everyone. Last time the subject of me having some Russian language books reminded me of one that I haven't looked at for a while.

Alexandr Zaitsev. A player who was a late developer, and died too young in sad circumstances.

Before getting married He went into hospital for surgery to correct a lifelong problem with his leg, and died during the surgery. A fine, but now almost forgotten, player, he was becoming very strong.  

Rather than do a proper article on him I picked a couple of games from the book that are truly baffling for you to enjoy, plus some pictures from the book. I have added quite a lot of notes based on my own analysis and that of the man himself, but I suspect that, like me, you will be left asking 'what is going on???!'

I love my chess battles and these two are just wonderful.

Let's begin with one against Bronstein. Some of you will know of another game between the two - probably his best known game - often players get remembered for a loss!!

Beautiful!! O.K. Let's get to the battle in question.

O.K. Hopefully you found that one enjoyable and utterly baffling. If not, grab a beer and sit down with the next one!!

Before I get to it, Tal rather liked a brilliant game that he won from Zaitsev, so  will throw it in here.

So, the game in question. Utter madness which won a special prize for the most interesting game of the tournament. Have fun with this one!!

That's the chess for today. A few pictures to finish with.

Before I forget - I have had some computer problems and lost some of my messages on the site. So if you have messaged me and I haven't replied, please try again!!

Cheers!