By the way, had black chosen to capture the queen on move 20, I then have NxB+ followed by NxQ, picking up the piece in a sequence somewhat inspired by one of Petrosian's most famous tactical plays.
A remarkable bishop sacrifice
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Sorry but shouldn't it be: 21..Qxd5 - to take the white Q that is just hanging out there? What am I missing?
Tomjoad: I covered that in my previous post. 21: QxD5?? 22: NxB+ forking king and queen.
OK - I see that now - thanks.
Fiveofswords: I know I have problems with the openings. I am looking at some of the different variations but all in all, the opening phase has always been the weakest part of my play. As for this opening itself, part of my problem lies in a bit of an immature and self destructive infatuation with Legall's mate, even though I realize most opponents won't let me play it. It's the draw of playing a somewhat inferior variation in the slim hopes of landing something spectacular; not quite rational but then again, humans are not rational animals.
A piece sacrifice which, depending on how its played, either exposes an extended pawn to attack, or launches a fierce attack on the opposing king. The position clarrifies and heads into an overwhelming endgame.