The final

[col]

http://www.queenalice.com/game.php?id=198016
English opening.

http://www.queenalice.com/game.php?id=198014
French - Kings Indian attack

http://www.queenalice.com/game.php?id=198018
French

http://www.queenalice.com/game.php?id=198010
Queens pawn

 

[col]

I cant help feeling that Luce has got the better of the initial moves.

All the games have followed unusual lines

In game 1 , I'm going to get doubled pawns. They may prove to be good; they may prove to be bad. Time will tell.

In game 2, I think I pushed e5 prematurely. It wasnt a move I intended to make but a moments aberration had me pressing move rather than analyse. Oops.

In game 3, we are still in a known posiotn of the French Tarrasch. Quite a few games from the 70s and 80s played in it. Typically leads to an isolated queens pawn position for black. Could be strong; could be weak.

In game 4, Luce played an unusual line with Nge2 and Ng3 against the Kings Indian. Avoids the book lines but is it any good?

 

[Richard Cribb]

My impression so far:

#1. An interesting variation in the English which seem to enjoy a certain popularity these days. Black allows his c-pawns to be doubled in exchange for dynamic counterplay.

#2. I think (or rather hope) that we are out of the books in this one. While it might appear innocent, this is a very complicated position where great care is required. Nobody should be surprised if this one will develop a bit slower than the other three.

#3. One of the main lines in the French Tarrasch. At the cost of an isolated d-pawn, I have freed my game. Now I must continue actively, to compensate for this structural weakness.

#4. Here I chose a comparatively rare variation which is not without its points. Since I usually play the Kings Indian myself, I am aware of the dangers to engage in some highpowered theory debate in this opening.

 

[punkbass2000]

I love the openness.

 

[Richard Cribb]

As I explained in the comings, goings and arrivals thread, something nasty has happened to somebody close to me, so I am afraid I will have to think about other things than chess in the nearest future.
I hope I will not have to withdraw, but unfortunately I can't exclude that possibility.
My apologies to all.

 

[col]

Take as long as you like Luce, - or I'm happy to agree draws in all the games.

 

[Narz]

My condolences on whatever has happened Luce.

You can always take a "vacation" (for up to 3 weeks I think).

 

[Richard Cribb]

Take as long as you like Luce, - or I'm happy to agree draws in all the games.

That's very gallant of you friend; thanks a lot.
I might accept that draw offer; I'll give my definite answer on Thursday.

My condolences on whatever has happened Luce.

Thanks friend. It is most appreciated.

You can always take a "vacation" (for up to 3 weeks I think).

Yes, but the thing is that it is difficult to concentrate too much on this right now. But as I said, I will give it thought another day beforing deciding anything.

 

[Richard Cribb]

OK, I think it is necessary to accept the draw offer.
Very sorry for being such a partykiller, but sometimes life forces us to concentrate on certain matters, and this is indeed one of them (If somebody really want details, they can PM me.).

 

[col]

Thanks Luce - and I hope things work out Ok for you and yours.