Since this group is about helping each other improve our game i thought i'd post this here. That, and under Josh's suggesstion i'm posting this here.

Ok, so i've basically realised that i suck when it comes to anticipating counterattacks mainly during the mid-game. I get myself into positions where i have to make forced moves which are not to my benefit. Now Josh has been able to catch me out on this in every match i've had against him.

I've tried solving tactical problems to help expand my knowledge on positions but i find they don't do much in relation to real games.

Also i find my overall strategy is lacking. I often build up a defensive structure, trade pieces and wait for a slip up from my opponent. This isn't very effective. Also i find that once i've got my sights on a certain attacking play or targeted a certain piece/square/file etc i completely overlook possible counters to the attack, mostly minor things that would go past most people but it's SO FRUSTRATING when a simple move from my opponent completely screws up my plans and brings my defensive structure down to its knees.

So yeah basically i'm here asking for any help, tips, training drills, practice mentor-style matches from a high rated player to point out my errors etc..basically anything that could help me improve my game to possibly break into the 1800 or even the 1900 bracket.

It seems that i'm going up against vovuha (2354) in the team match against THE POWER OF CHESS. Now i'm trying to grab all his games' PGN's and study them but i feel that i'll mess up and try a variation that just won't work, or get cornered into forced moves.

Can anyone help?

Cheers in advance!

P.S. Hopefully whatever is taught/learned in this topic will help others out.

C project