Grischuk Leads At Halfway In Linares

At the halfway point in Linares, Alexander Grischuk leads on 5/7, a point clear of Magnus Carlsen and Vassily Ivanchuk, who are tied in second place on 4/7.

Ivanchuk was the only winner in round 7, finally managing to convert a promising position into a victory.  His victim was Lev Aronian.

Also, the mystery of the draw between Ivanchuk and Dominguez in round 6 has been solved thanks to reports from the scene.  The players were involved in a mutual time scramble before the time control and Ivanchuk accidentally knocked over some pieces a few times.  When the dust had settled after the time control, Ivanchuk offered a draw in a likely winning position by way of apology.

Typical Chucky!  It's good to know that such sportsmanship and generosity can still exist among at least some players at the top level.