qe3+,followed by rf4,will win
Need help with high level game
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Frankly I'm not impressed by vasan's answer. It lacks a bit of explanation. I'm sure I've missed some variations, but hopefully the below gets us closer to an understanding of the position.
Hi P_U_N,
Back Rank Pin
While taking a break from preparing for my next OTB, I just glanced at the position. After 1.Qxg4 Qxe3+ 2.Kh2 , then 2...Qe1. The Key to this position is the pin that Black's Queen gets on the Knight at b1 on White's back rank. The threat after Black creates the Black King's escape square with a6 is Rf1 threatening mate. There might be some refinements on the variations. The move Rf4 gives White too much counterplay beginning with Qc8+.
If I am get some time I will post the variations.
Thanks loomis and transpositions!
Actually loomis, not all your notes and variations came through, I did see the possible draw possibilities out of Qc8+ - I'll try to sort through the pgn in file and figure it out!
(20 minutes later)
ok, I just figured out how to click on the move list and look at the variations.
Even so, is the move made the "best" move - with the draw possibilities they loomed with taking the bishop.
So, I'm thinking there must be a "forced" mate with QxB
Thanks again!
True, but isn't the ponziani usu. considered a drawish opening for white? I have no idea on the result of the championship or the standings and if Nakamura needed a win - Just a note below on the ponziani line. I have no idea what Kaufman would say to the 3...f5.
" International Master Larry Kaufman has observed that it is not clear to whom the opening should appeal, since White must be prepared for both "boring drawish play" after 3...Nf6 and "spectacularly exciting lines" after 3...d5."
I've been studying the ponziani - and this is a game from the 2007 US championshiop. Can someone explain why white does not take the bishop on move 19, I know he is protecting the pawn from the queen and a check, but I just don't see the line that would happen after that.