COMPLETE COMMENTARY BY MOVE
MOVE 1
Voting Results
C7-C5 41%
E7-E5 28%
D7-D6 11%
E7-E6 4%
G8-F6 3%
KRUSH MOVE 1 COMMENTARY
c5 to Kasparov's e4
I recommend 1...c5 (Black pawn to c5). This defense (the Sicilian Defense) provides Black with good counterattacking possibilities, and should create an interesting and dynamic game.
PAHTZ MOVE 1 COMMENTARY
c5 to Kasparov's e4
Since Kasparov started with the most common opening move, Pawn e4, I would play an aggressive answer, Pawn to c5 (c5). This is my favorite move.
FELECAN MOVE 1 COMMENTARY
d6 to Kasparov's e4
This opening is a Modern Defense. Black has a good game with Kasparov using this opening lately. Many players underestimate this reliable opening and it should be played more often. I'm comfortable using this against anyone, including Kasparov."
BACROT MOVE 1 COMMENTARY
c5 to Kasparov's e4
First step in the Sicilian Defense.
DANNY KING MOVE 1 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
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MOVE 2
Voting Results
D7-D6 62%
B8-C6 15%
G8-F6 9%
E7-E6 4%
D7-D5 1%
KRUSH MOVE 2 COMMENTARY
d7-d6 to Kasparov's Nf3
There are a number of playable alternatives for Black, including 2...Nc6,
and 2...e6. However, rarer moves like 2...a6, 2...Nf6, and 2...g6 may
not stand the "test of time."
With 2...d6, we will maintain maximum FLEXIBILITY if Garry continues in
Open Sicilian manner. Thus after 3.d4 cxd4 4.Nxd4 Nf6 5.Nc3, we can play
5...a6 (the Najdorf Variation), 5...g6 (the Dragon Variation), 5...e6
(the Scheveningen Variation) - all variations which Garry has himself
employed with Black, or 5...Nc6 (the Classical Variation of the
Sicilian). Of course, there is a great deal of theory associated with
all of these sharp systems, so we must conduct our opening research
diligently.
PAHTZ MOVE 2 COMMENTARY
d7-d6 to Kasparov's Nf3
My second move is pawn d7-d6. I play this move because it is popular.
Very often Kasparov also plays this move with success and I do too.
P.S. 2. Sf3 is the best move in this position
You can also play 2. Sc3, but I like Sf3 more.
FELECAN MOVE 2 COMMENTARY
d7-d6 to Kasparov's Nf3
Najdorf line - Pawn to d6. This is the most flexible line we can choose. This is a deeply analyzed line that still allows for creativity and new moves. Kasparov often plays this for Black. It will be interesting to see how he responds to his favorite Black response. He won a number of games recently against top grandmasters with this line.
BACROT MOVE 2 COMMENTARY
d6 to Kasparov’s Nf3
d6 is the most common move at this point, and I highly recommend it.
DANNY KING MOVE 2 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
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MOVE 3
Voting Results
C8-D7 50%
B8-D7 35%
B8-C6 11%
E8-B5 5%
A7-A6 1%
KRUSH MOVE 3 COMMENTARY
Nd7 to Kasparov's Bb5+
It appears that Garry wishes to avoid a theoretical battle in a main
line Open Sicilian. Now we must make an early choice that will shape the
outcome of the middlegame to come.
Black's first alternative is 3...Bd7, but I think this variation can
become boring even though it offers reasonable chances for equality.
A second alternative is 3...Nc6 which is not so good a choice against
Kasparov in my opinion, as White can (if he wishes) immediately
compromise Black's pawn structure with 4.Bxc6+!? bxc6 5.0-0.
The third alternative, and the one I highly recommend is 3...Nd7. Black
avoids any weakening in the pawn structure, and simplification can
result in Black obtaining the BISHOP PAIR at the cost of a small lag in
DEVELOPMENT (in chess you have to give something to get something!). It
is interesting to note that this is Garry's preferred treatment when he
has this position as Black. More on this later on the 'Kasparov World
Team Strategy Bulletin Board' if we go with 3...Nd7.
PAHTZ MOVE 3 COMMENTARY
Nd7 to Kasparov's Bb5+
This move is more aggressive then 3....Bd7, because white gets after 4.Bxd7
4....Nxd7 5.c4 a comfortable position. I hope that black makes the game more
interesting and more complicated with the move 3....Nd7.
FELECAN MOVE 3 COMMENTARY
Bd7 to Kasparov's Bb5
This is the most simple defense for the situation.
BACROT MOVE 3 COMMENTARY
Bd7 to Kasparov's Bb5
DANNY KING MOVE 3 COMMENTARY
One of the old masters once said: "When I give check I fear no one!", but don't panic, we can get out of this one easily.
Garry's own comment to his move is revealing:
"It seems that young coaches are trying to force me to play against my favourite Najdorf! Due to forthcoming match with Vishy I have to refrain from public theoretical duel. So please forgive me for selecting unattractive 3 Bf1-b5+."
Let me explain:
In the latter part of the year, most likely October till mid November, there is a good chance that Garry Kasparov will be defending his World title in a match against the world no.2, Vishy Anand from India. At this moment both players will be beginning their intense preparation for the match, including research on their opening repertoires.
It is therefore understandable that Garry wishes to reveal nothing of his future plans and so avoids the move which is generally accepted as the most critical - 3 d4 leading to an open game, rich in fighting possibilities for both sides - and turns to the bishop check, generally leading to a more closed position. The World Champion describes the move as 'unattractive', possibly because it could lead to the early exchange of pieces after, for instance, 3...Bd7, when ideally he would like to maintain as much tension as possible.
Black has three acceptable ways to block the check. 3...Bd7 is the most solid and reliable - in this way none of black's pieces are blocked; 3...Nd7 is more complex - black aims at forcing white to exchange off the bishop for knight (possibly giving black a long-term advantage) but in so doing blocks his pieces temporarily; and 3...Nc6 is straightforward, though leaves white with several options.
It's your choice: Go World!
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MOVE 4
Voting Results
D8-D7 66&
B8-D7 29%
E8-D7 3%
G8-F6 0.8%
B8-C6 0.18%
KRUSH MOVE 4 COMMENTARY
Qxd7 to Kasparov's Bxd7+
I recommend that the World plays 4...Qxd7 (Queen captures Bishop on d7).
Garry has played the logical 4.Bxd7+, and our most natural response is
4...Qxd7, intending to eventually develop the Nb8 to c6 to fight for the
important CENTRAL SQUARES on e5 and d4.
The second alternative 4...Nxd7 is a less resilient option, as Black will
have less influence over the d4-square. For example: 5.0-0 Ngf6 6.Qe2 e6
(6...g6 7.c3 Bg7 8.d4, with a STRONG CENTER favors White, although 6...Rc8!?
as played in the past by Danny King is interesting) 7.b3 Be7 8.Bb2 0-0
9.c4, as played by Adams and Tal (among others), gives White a
comfortable edge.
There is a third option(?), i.e., 4...Kxd7? which could be described as
a TN - No! Not a Theoretical Novelty but a Terrible Nightmare for the
World (but sweet dreams for Garry!).
Returning to my preferred option at move 4 - White has a number of
interesting continuations after 4...Qxd7:
A) 5.c4 - to establish a Maroczy Bind pawn structure, when Black can
consider a development plan of g7-g6, Bf8-g7, Ng8-f6, 0-0, etc. White
would in fact achieve a Maroczy Bind formation against a Dragon having
dispensed with his weaker LIGHT SQUARED BISHOP (White's central pawns on
c4 and e4 are on LIGHT SQUARES). Nevertheless, with accurate defense,
Black has HOPES for equality. I have a feeling that Kasparov will tend
towards this choice, as it will create a strategical battle aimed at
splitting the votes among the analysts and their online World Team
colleagues in an attempt to compel errors by Black.
B) 5.0-0 - with two principle schools of thought, i.e., White builds a
PAWN CENTER after the continuation 5...Nc6 6.c3 Nf6 7.Re1, intending
d2-d4 (7.Qe2!? is interesting), or the interesting gambit line 7.d4!?
Nxe4 8.d5 Ne5 (8...Nb8 and 8...Nd8 are convoluted methods for retaining
the pawn at the cost of passivity) 9.Re1 Nxf3+ 10.Qxf3 Nf6 11.c4 e5
12.dxe6 fxe6 13.Bg5, and White has pressure and COMPENSATION for the
pawn, and Black must defend VERY accurately to hold the balance - for a
recent example, see Adams-Anand, Groningen (m/1) 1997. These lines are
more forcing in nature, and make the World's immediate decisions
somewhat simpler. For further analysis of the Adams-Anand game, please
see
Smart Chess Online
PAHTZ MOVE 4 COMMENTARY
Qxd7 to Kasparov's Bxd7+
My comment on Garri's move Bxd7+:
What else? White has no other possibility. For example 4.Qe2 4....L:b5 5.Q:b5 5....Qd7
with equality. White keeps a small advantage, because he has more space.
This position I have to play for the time now. My answer is Q:d7, so we will be able to place the Knight on c6 later.
FELECAN MOVE 4 COMMENTARY
Qxd7 to Kasparov's Bxd7+
This is better than Knight takes Bishop on d7. Moving the Knight puts it on a passive square. If we take Kasparov's Bishop with our Queen, we can then move the Knight to C6 and have it control the center. I've had problems with a Knight moving to d7 against stronger players.
BACROT MOVE 4 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 4 COMMENTARY
I'm delighted that the World has chosen to play 3...Bd7 (personally, I
thought 3...Nd7 was a bit too risky). Many people have been writing in the
bulletin board that this is a dull continuation, giving Black few winning
chances. I disagree. It's all a matter of attitude: I often use this
move to play for a win.
I think it's important to bear in mind how one's opponent is feeling about
the game. Kasparov is desperate to win. Anything else, a draw for
instance, he will consider a failure. Therefore, why shouldn't the World
play a solid continuation? You never know, we might see the World Champion
overplay his hand.....
If White is to get anything from this position he has to exchange the
bishops on d7, otherwise he would fall behind in development. Now Black
has a choice between two equally good continuations, 4...Qxd7 or 4...Nxd7.
Personally I prefer to recapture with the knight but really it's just a
matter of taste.
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MOVE 5
Voting Results
B8-C6 72.4%
G8-F6 10.52
E7-E5 4.27
D7-G4 3.2
G7-G6 2.75
KRUSH MOVE 5 COMMENTARY
Nc6 to Kasparov's c4
Garry has played 5.c4 to establish the Maroczy Bind formation. With
5...Nc6, we proceed with the DEVELOPMENT of our forces and aim to fight
for the CENTRAL SQUARES d4 and e5.
The pawn-grab line 5...Qg4?! is very dubious and should be avoided like
the plague. White gains a large LEAD IN DEVELOPMENT and a dangerous
INITIATIVE (6.0-0 Qxe4 7.d4! and Black can be quickly mangled - for
example, Browne-Quinteros, Wijk aan Zee 1974 is a classic demolition job
by White) by gaining TEMPI against the EXPOSED Black queen - exactly the
kind of situation not to be in against KASPAROV. Work with me on this,
my friends, "I will NOT play 5...Qg4. I will NOT play 5...Qg4." Repeat it
to yourself as often as necessary, and return to examining 5...Nc6.
A typical sequence after 5...Nc6 is 6.Nc3 g6 (also take serious note of
the move 6...Nf6, which is an interesting move order as 7.d4 can then be
met by 7...cxd4 8.Nxd4 Qg4! and Black equalizes with alacrity. Therefore
6...Nf6 would likely be met by 7.0-0 g6 8.d4 cxd4 9.Nxd4 Bg7, and now
for example, 10.Nde2 0-0, transposing to a line discussed below). After
5...Nc6 6.Nc3 g6 7.d4, Kasparov played the imaginative 7...Bg7!? against
Alexei Shirov at the Erevan Olympiad in 1996. Play continued 8.d5 Bxc3+
(the point as Black aims to create a static pawn structure with
potentially weak White doubled c-pawns as in the Nimzo-Indian Defense)
9.bxc3 Na5. Here Shirov played 10.0-0, and after 10...f6 11.Nd2 b6
12.Qe2 Qa4! 13.f4 Nh6 14.e5 0-0-0, a very complicated game ensued
(eventually drawn). Later in Rublevsky-Ehlvest, Polanica Zdroj 1997,
White found a more direct idea with 10.Nd2! (instead of 10.0-0) and
after 10...f6 11.f4 0-0-0 (risky for Black as White still controls the
a4-square with the queen on d1) 12.0-0 b6 13.a4! Nh6 14.Nb3, White had
good play on the queenside and held the INITIATIVE.
Kasparov's 7...Bg7!? in this variation is intriguing and will certainly
receive further scrutiny, but I believe it would be better to remain in
more usual lines, for example: 7...cxd4 8.Nxd4 Bg7 9.Nde2 (9.Be3 is
possible) 9...Nf6 10.0-0 0-0, with a normal Dragon versus Maroczy Bind
(minus light squared bishops) middle game in the offing, with good
chances for Black to demonstrate equality. Black has a resilient and
flexible PAWN STRUCTURE, and White has a slight SPACE ADVANTAGE.
So I recommend 5...Nc6, and if 6.Nc3 by Kasparov, then we might
investigate the flexible continuation 6...Nf6 (although 6...g6 is OK).
PAHTZ MOVE 5 COMMENTARY
Nc6 to Kasparov's c4.
This is a normal move for this development. The black Knight now controls the square d4 and it might go to e5 on the next move.
FELECAN MOVE 5 COMMENTARY
Nc6 to Kasparov's c4
We don't want our Knight on d7 because that is passive. Having the Knight on c6 will help control the center of the board. Especially the d4 square, which is important in the Sicilian Defense. We're just about to get into the interesting part of the game. Many new lines and improvements will be possible very soon. Kasparov is playing a very normal game so far, so we'll have to see what happens in the next few moves.
BACROT MOVE 5 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 5 COMMENTARY
The centre, particularly at the beginning of the game, is the most
important sector of the board. It makes sense: if you dominate the centre
you dominate the whole board. So how should one best fight for central
control? Answer: send out the infantry (the pawns) - the expendable cannon fodder - to gain ground and only then bring in the important warriors. The pawns win territory, and in so doing, provide essential cover for the more valuable pieces. This is why Kasparov has played his pawn to c4. He is attempting to establish a rock solid bind on the centre and only then will he bring out his pieces.
In reply, Black has a clear choice. He can either act in the same way and
block the centre with pawns (5...e5); or allow White to build a strong
pawn centre in the hope of shooting it down from the side of the board
(5...Nc6, 6...g6 etc). By the way, I would not recommend a wild pawn grab:
5...Qg4 would be too greedy. White castles (6. O-O), Black grabs his pawn
(6...Qxe4) but loses too much time. White would get a crushing attack
through the middle with 7. d4. It is too risky to use the Queen alone in
the opening.
Garry has played this whole line before with White and with
Black. Here he chose to play 5...Nc6. It's your choice. GO WORLD!!
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MOVE 6
Voting Results
G8-F6 49.92
G7-G6 28.37
C6-E5 5.2
E7-E5 3.15
C6-D4 2.48
KRUSH MOVE 6 COMMENTARY
g6 to Kasparov's Nf3
In my previous posting, I indicated that Black has two good moves at this
juncture, namely 6...Nf6, and 6...g6. Frequently, these moves result in
the same (or similar) position after a further transposition of moves.
If Black plays 6...Nf6, then 7.d4 is easily met with 7...cxd4 8.Nxd4
Qg4! and Black has equalized - of course, Garry would NEVER allow us to
have such an easy time of it. After 6...Nf6, Garry will have little option
but to continue with the main line 7.0-0, when 7...g6 creates a Dragon
set-up (continuing with Bf8-g7, and 0-0 completing kingside
DEVELOPMENT), in which Black can establish a very playable middle game.
6...Nf6 is OK.
After further deliberation, I have chosen 6...g6 as my preferred
continuation, when play might likely continue 7.d4 cxd4 (I don't believe
we should tempt fate with Kasparov's line 7...Bg7!? - more details about
this next time) 8.Nxd4 Bg7, when White must make a serious decision
concerning the disposition of his knight on d4, for example 9.Be3
(developing while protecting the knight - the most principled reaction),
or 9.Nde2 (a retreat to regroup). After:
A) 9.Nde2 Nf6 (9...Ne5!? deserves serious attention) 10.0-0 0-0, or
B) 9.Be3 (probably best) 9...Nf6 10.f3 (guarding against Nf6-g4)
10...0-0, we can look forward to a DYNAMIC and interesting middle game.
I believe 6...g6 is the strongest and most flexible continuation.
PAHTZ MOVE 6 COMMENTARY
Ne5 to Kasparov's Nf3
With this move, Black wants to take the pawn on c4. Now white can play 7.d2-d4 or it will have to protect the pawn. If White takes the Knight on e5, Black will then have a good position, because after 7....dxe5 Black will control the square d4. After 7.d2-d4, Black should not take the pawn on c4, because of 8.dxc5 dxc5 9.Qb3 attacking White. But it might turn out as: 7....cxd4 8.Qxd4 8....Nc6
9.Qd2 Nf6 10.0-0 g6 11.b3 Bg7 12.Bb2 0-0 after which White has only a small advantage.
FELECAN MOVE 6 COMMENTARY
Nf6 to Kasparov's Nf3
Here you have a few more lines to choose from. This would be the most popular main line. Ne5 is not really a safe position. I don't want to move the same piece three times in the opening. I want to develop more pieces at this point. After this, we should develop the Bishop and then castle on the King's side.
BACROT MOVE 6 COMMENTARY
Nf6 to Kasparov's Nf3
In the game between Kasparov and Shirov in 1996, Garry played 6...g6. The result was a draw, but it might be too dangerous to repeat this move now. So I propose 6...Nf6.
DANNY KING MOVE 6 COMMENTARY
The World has chosen to follow the analyst's suggestion of 5...Nc6, in
my opinion the most sensible move, developing a piece towards the
centre. Garry has replied in kind, also bringing his Knight out into
the middle. All very sound.
Now, the time has come to bring out some more pieces. World, in your
democratic Army rules, every soldier has to play its part in the
struggle. And when I talk about the pieces, I don't mean the pawns, I
mean the Knights and Bishops and finally the Rooks. Pawn moves are
mainly made in the opening for 2 reasons: to mark out territory in the
center; and to enable the Bishops to move into the game.
It's worth looking at what Garry Kasparov himself has tried before in
this situation (he has played this exact position previously - from
both sides of the board). Three years ago Kasparov played a game against
Alexei Shirov which continued 6...g6 7 d4 Bg7 (Black more usually
captures on d4) 8 d5, and after great complications the game was drawn.
This so-called 'fianchetto' of the Bishop is quite standard: from g7 it
exerts pressure on the center and prepares for castling. But is it wise to
follow in Garry's footsteps? Be careful! The World Champion is an
industrious worker away from the board and will have studied that
continuation in great detail.
I'm currently writing this from Frankfurt, Germany where Garry is
taking part in the 'Frankfurt Giants', a speed chess tournament, along
with Anand, Kramnik and Karpov - the world's elite (he's a busy man).
It's a great event.
In passing I said to Garry, "Hey, I think the World's going to repeat your
play against Shirov!"
He grinned like a crocodile who had just been introduced to his
lunch...
So, 6..g6 is undoubtedly a good move, and most players go down this route,
but do it with your eyes wide open.
Alternatively, Black could develop his Bishop in another way with
6..Nf6, followed by ...e6 and ...Be7. This is a solid and respectable
way to proceed, though contemporary fashion has largely ignored it.
It's your choice - good luck!
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MOVE 7
Voting Results
G7-G6 65.46
C6-E5 8.49
E7-E5 7.04
E7-E6 5.92
Castle Queenside 4.18
KRUSH MOVE 7 COMMENTARY
g6 to Kasparov's O-O
Despite the subtle strategic differences between the move orders 6...g6
and 6...Nf6 7.0-0 g6, I still prefer to steer the game into a Dragon
formation for Black. Nevertheless, it is useful to examine the
differences between 6...g6, and 6...Nf6 7.0-0 g6.
After 7...g6, Black must be prepared to enter the complicated middlegame
resulting from 8.d4 cxd4 9.Nxd4 Bg7 10.Nc2! (or 10.Nde2). Note that
White would not have this very interesting and effective redeployment of
his knight to c2 in the line 6...g6 7.d4 cxd4 8.Nxd4 Bg7 as 9.Nc2?!
would allow 9...Bxc3+ crippling White's pawn structure (DOUBLED ISOLATED
c-PAWNS). In this variation, White would more likely have continued with
the natural 9.Be3 Nf6 (here this development serves a real point as
10.0-0 is prevented because of the response 10...Ng4). Therefore White
would continue 10.f3 (another point in this line is that White must
expend another pawn move with f2-f3 - a valuable TEMPO - in order to
complete his development) 10...0-0, and Black has a comfortable position
as he has quickly and safely developed.
Therefore, the move order 6...Nf6 7.0-0 g6, by virtue of being less
aggressive and forcing than 6...g6 allows White more FLEXIBILITY and
FREEDOM OF CHOICE in the ultimate disposition of his forces. Ironically,
it is a pawn move (6...g6) which contributes to faster development for
Black than a piece move (6...Nf6). Returning to the current critical
line 7...g6 8.d4 cxd4 9.Nxd4 Bg7 10.Nc2! Black will bring his king to
safety with 10...0-0, before commencing active operations.
Of course 7...g6 is not the only option available to Black. Black can
also make a defensive stance with 7...e6, creating the "little center"
with pawns on e6 and d6, with a development scheme of Bf8-e7, followed
by 0-0. For example, after 7...e6, play may proceed with 8.d4 cxd4
9.Nxd4 Be7, when White has two primary plans - continuing development
with Bc1-e3, or with b2-b3, followed by Bc1-b2. This course for Black,
although playable, is inherently more passive than the FIANCHETTO system
(7...g6) that I am recommending. Black will need to maneuver patiently
to engineer the pawn breaks b7-b5 and/or d6-d5 in order to combat
White's SPACE ADVANTAGE. This type of pawn structure for Black (pawns on
d6 and e6) requires careful and studious handling if Black is to avoid
being suffocated by White's space advantage.
Therefore, the choice between 7...e6 and 7...g6 at this juncture is
somewhat a matter of taste.
I have received many e-mails from my World Team colleagues regarding
some of the terminology used in my analysis posts and posts to the World
Team Strategy Bulletin Board. I would like to refer you to the following
free resource (The SmartChess Glossary - an alphabetized listing of
chess terms and jargon) located at my web site:
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/Smartchessguide/gloss.htm
PAHTZ MOVE 7 COMMENTARY
g6 to Kasparov's O-O
It's a pity that The World didn't want to play my suggestion on the last
move 6...Ne5! Now the game is going to develop quietly - but I'm still
going to try to liven things up with my next move - 7...g6. I like to bring my Bishop out to g7 onto the long diagonal because the game gets trickier. I do this in other openings, so it suits my style to try it here too.
So, World, isn't it about time you picked one of my moves?
FELECAN MOVE 7 COMMENTARY
g6 to Kasparov's O-O
Kasparov choose this line because he wants to play a positional and simple game. We need to get our Bishop onto g7 to control the long diagonal. Others may want to move e6 (pawn to e6) and have our pawns in the center, but I'm playing modern, which is a comparable strategy.
BACROT MOVE 7 COMMENTARY
Ne5 to Kasparov's O-O
Kasparov chose the best continuation with 7. 0-0 8. d4 cxd4 9. Nxd4 Qg4! - equality. Now two moves are equivalent for The World: 7...g6 and 7...Ne5. I recommend Ne5 (Knight to e5) which should lead The World to a solid position.
DANNY KING MOVE 7 COMMENTARY
The World voted for the most flexible move 6...Nf6 and Garry has chosen to
castle (7. 0-0) which is the most accurate continuation. In the vast majority of master games, both sides castle. This is an extremely effective move: with one stroke White removes his King from the centre of the board (where, believe me, we are going to see some action) to the side of the board behind the cover of three pawns. The King is the most important piece on the board but at the same time it has very little power (a bit like the British monarch?). The King only comes into its own once a great many pieces have been exchanged - in the ending. The other great benefit of castling is that the rook, stuck in the corner of the board, now emerges into the middle of the board. All that with just one move.
Leaving the King in the middle of the board can be fatal, particularly
against a player of Kasparov's calibre. I have just witnessed here in
Germany how he demolished the World No. 3 player, Vladimir Kramnik, with a
devastating attack. Kramnik tarried too long with his king in the centre
and paid the price. Let me tell you, it was UGLY. Therefore, over the
next few moves castling MUST be the aim of the World team.
To castle Black must first bring out the Bishop on f8. There are two ways
of doing this: either 7...g6; or 7...e6. followed by a Bishop move and
castling on the Kingside. Objectively it is impossible to say which
continuation is better. The most important thing is to get the King
castled.
By the way, I would not recommend Queenside castling. On that side of the
board the King would be too exposed. World, it's your choice.
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MOVE 8
Voting Results
C5-D4 85.28%
C6-D4 4.22
Castle Queenside 2.21
F8-G7 2.07
E7-E5 1.19
KRUSH MOVE 8 COMMENTARY
cxd4 to Kasparov's d4
I recommend that the World plays 8...cxd4 (pawn on c5 captures pawn on
d4).
With 8.d4, White has the positional threat of 9.d5, displacing Black's
Knight on c6 and creating an imposing SPACE ADVANTAGE. The capture on d4
is therefore regarded as automatic, and is the ONLY correct move. After
the forced 9.Nxd4, Black should continue his DEVELOPMENT with 9...Bg7.
White has then a major choice between 10.Nc2 and 10.Nde2, when I can
promise you some SURPRISES!
PAHTZ MOVE 8 COMMENTARY
cxd4 to Kasparov's d4
What else? Only with this move can The World (Black) avoid Kasparov's possible next move 9.d5 with its clear
space advantage for White. So there is no other possibility for The World.
FELECAN MOVE 8 COMMENTARY
cxd4 to Kasparov's d4
This is the most normal move and is the only one that makes sense in this situation. We must play this.
BACROT MOVE 8 COMMENTARY
cxd4 to Kasparov's d4
This is the only move we should make - there is no choice.
DANNY KING MOVE 8 COMMENTARY
8.d4 is the only way that Garry Kasparov can play for an advantage. By
throwing another pawn into the center, he hopes to establish even more
control; as well as allowing his bishop to enter the game. In this
position, White threatens to push the pawn again to d5, gaining space and
time by attacking the knight. Therefore, before doing anything
else, the World MUST exchange pawns in the middle. The question is: should
this be done with the pawn or the knight? Check out the coaches'
suggestions and I think you'll get the right answer!
Over the next few moves - after Black has, hopefully, castled - I will be
discussing the pawn structures and how this will (or ought to!)affect forthcoming play.
It's your choice, World Team - do the right thing!
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MOVE 9
Voting Results
F8-G7 81.04
C6-D4 7.04
E7-E5 4.58
Castle Queenside 1.7
D7-G4 1.0
KRUSH MOVE 9 COMMENTARY
Bg7 to Kasparov's Nxd4
The move 9...Bg7 is the only logical follow-up to playing g6. Black's
Bishop is DEVELOPED actively on the h8-a1 LONG DIAGONAL. This
development comes with TEMPO, as Black makes the threat of 10...Nxe4
exposing an attack on White's knight on d4 - hence winning a pawn.
White's most common continuations are 10.Nc2 and 10.Nde2, to safeguard
the Knight.
PAHTZ MOVE 9 COMMENTARY
Bg7 to Kasparov's Nxd4
I suggest we play 9...Bg7. The only alternative is 9...Nxd4 10.Qxd4 Bg7
11.b3, but after these moves the game can quickly become quite boring. I am currently in Hamburg visiting my friends at ChessBase. We looked in the
giant database with 1.1 million games and found 109 games in which this
position occurred. 9...Nxd4 was played in only three games. After 9...Bg7
Black scored 40%(37 losses and 16 wins), so our chances don't look too
good. But after for instance 10.Nde2 0-0 11.f3, Black has a lot of
interesting moves.
FELECAN MOVE 9 COMMENTARY
Bg7 to Kasparov's Nxd4
We should continue by developing the Bishop now that we have cleared space to move and can control the long diagonal. Afterward, we should castle on the Kingside, which is faster and safer. To castle Queenside, we would have to move our Queen from its current position. After castling we may begin our counter play much faster.
BACROT MOVE 9 COMMENTARY
Bg7 to Kasparov's Nxd4
This is the only possible move.
DANNY KING MOVE 9 COMMENTARY
Garry had no choice on the last move, he simply had to recapture with the Knight to restore the balance. With this last exchange of pawns, a situation has arisen which has been disputed on many previous occasions: the World Champion has constructed the so-called 'Maroczy Bind' against the World's Sicilian formation. Maroczy? What or who is that?
Born in 1870, Geza Maroczy from Hungary (pronounced, for English speakers 'Marotzy') was one of the most successful players of the early 20th century. He employed this formation of pawns on e4 and c4 against the Sicilian to great effect, so much so that it was once thought to automatically give White a good game. White's aim is to control as much space as possible with the pawns in the centre, preventing Black from breaking out from behind the first three rows. Theoretical opinion has shifted since the days when Maroczy was playing, and it is now thought that Black's counter chances are perfectly adequate. So, don't be too concerned, World, there are going to be plenty of ways to fight back, as I'm confident the Analysts are going to show. Once development is complete, I'll be speaking more about the kind of strategies that black should be looking to try.
For the moment, let's deal with this specific position. You'll notice that it is possible for Black to capture the Knight on d4. Is this a good idea? Answer: I don't think so. White would simply recapture with the Queen (so black doesn't win material) and Her Majesty stands well in the centre.
For Black, priority no.1 MUST be to bring out all his pieces and get his King to safety (look and learn from Garry!). Therefore, there is really only one decent move here; I won't be shocked if the coaches all make the same recommendation, and that will be for a good reason.
World, do the right thing!
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MOVE 10
Voting Results
D7-E6 52.97
Castle Kingside 36.91
Castle Queenside 1.4
F6-G4 1.18
E7-E5 1.15
KRUSH MOVE 10 COMMENTARY
Qe6 to Kasparov's Nde2
I highly recommend that the World plays the NEW MOVE 10...Qe6 (queen on d7 to e6).
"WHERE DO YOU WANT TO GO TODAY?"
Let's take a long hard look at our OPTIONS at this important and CRITICAL moment in the game.
THE OLD MOVE 10...0-0 (Conservatism Reigns?)
Theory considers the usual move at this stage to be 10...0-0 (kingside castling). Difficult middlegames usually follow, for example: 11.f3 a6 12.a4 Rfc8 13.b3 Qd8 14.Kh1, etc, when White already has a SLIGHT ADVANTAGE and an enduring INITIATIVE. If you choose 10...0-0, you will certainly risk playing into the very sharp teeth of Kasparov's vaunted OPENING PREPARATION. I am advising AGAINST playing this move (and playing into Garry's hands) because I think we have a serious alternative in 10...Qe6!? at our disposal (see below).
THE WEAK MOVE 10...Na5?! (Imaginative but Lacking - "Knights on the Rim are Dim")
Experimenting last week, I tried to make the unusual idea of 10...Na5?! work. I was happy with 11.Qd3 (known) 11...Qc6! 12.b3 Nxe4! (novelty) which is promising for Black. Unfortunately, I was unable to resolve all of Black's problems after 11.b3! (novelty), for example: 11...a6 (11...Nxe4?! 12.Nxe4 Bxa1 13.Bxd2 Nxb3 14.axb3 Bg7 15.Bc3! is good for White) 12.a4 Nxe4 13.Nxe4 Bxa1 14.Bd2 Nxb3 15.Qxb3 Bg7 (or 15...Be5 16.N2c3! leads to White's advantage) 16.Nf4, which favors White. 10...Na5?! should DEFINITELY be DISCARDED.
THE NEW MOVE 10...Qe6!? (A New Path in the Sicilian Labyrinth!?)
Last week, during the World Open in Philadelphia, I showed the THEORETICAL NOVELTY 10...Qe6!? to my trainers GM GIORGI KACHEISHVILI and GM RON HENLEY (the latter via phone). I had been looking at various options for Black in the eventuality that "The World" played 6...Nf6 7.0-0 g6, instead of 6...g6. I had based this idea on an old game of GM Jan Smejkal's that I had seen in my database.
I believe this new move, 10...Qe6, is a DYNAMIC and PRACTICAL SOLUTION to Black's opening play. Below you will find a sample of what I believe are the most important variations. White has two ways (11.Qb3 or 11.Nd5) to meet the SIMULTANEOUS attack on his c- and e-pawns (there is no compensation for White if he jettisons his c-pawn with 11.f3 Qxc4). I am pleased that 10...Qe6 has also earned the important and independent ENDORSEMENT from the strong Russian GMs ALEXANDER KHALIFMAN and KONSTANTIN SAKAEV of the Grandmaster Chess School (http://www.gmchess.spb.ru/kasparov-world.html) - a fine chess academy in Russia. Some of the key positions from the analysis of 10...Qe6 given below have been illustrated at the Barnet Chess Club web-site (http://www.gtryfon.demon.co.uk/bcc/) - one of the best educational chess sites on the Web. WORLD TEAM - take note! We have many wonderful resources to draw upon in our battle with Garry - use them all!
The following is based on analysis I have already posted to the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board (http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/index.asp), during the last few days.
THE LINE 10...Qe6!? 11.Qb3 (White Queen Sortie)
If White plays 11.Qb3, Black has two ideas:
A) 11...Rc8 (alternative 1 which seems less active for Black) and now:
A1) 12.Ng3 0-0 (12...Nd7!? with the idea 13.Qxb7 Nc5) 13.Qxb7 Qxc4, with an edge for Black.
A2) 12.f3 0-0 13.Nf4 Qd7, with perhaps a small edge for Black.
A3) 12.Qxb7 0-0, for example:
A3a) 13.Nb5 Qxc4, with a clear advantage Black.
A3b) 13.Qb5 Nxe4 14.Nf4 Qe5 15.Qxe5 dxe5, with the following possibilities:
A3b1) 16.Nxe4 exf4 17.Bxf4 Bxb2, equal.
A3b2) 16.Nxg6 Nxc3! 17.Nxf8 Ne2+ 18.Kh1 Kxf8, is good for Black.
A3b3) 16.Nfd5 Nxc3 17.Nxc3 Nb4 18.b3 (18.Be3 Rxc4 19.Bxa7 Ra8 20.Be3 e4, favors Black) 18...e4!? (18...Rfd8 is equal) 19.Bd2 Rfd8 (19...f5 is at least equal for Black, and possibly the strongest) 20.Nxe4 Bxa1 21.Bxb4 (21.Rxa1 Nd3 is good for Black) 21...Bf6 22.Nxf6+ exf6, is good for Black.
A3c) 13.Qa6!? Nxe4 14.Nf4 Qf5 15.Ncd5 Qd7, with level chances.
B) 11...0-0! (alternative 2 - even better than 11...Rc8, as this leads to a stronger placement of the Black rooks) 12.Qxb7 (otherwise it seems difficult to justify 11.Qb3) 12...Rfc8 13.Qa6, and now:
B1) 13...Nxe4 14.Nf4 (14.Nxe4 Qxe4 is good for Black) 14...Qf5 15.Ncd5 Qd7, with an edge for Black.
B2) 13...Nb8!? (what a funny move!) 14.Qb7 Nc6! renewing the attack on c4 and enticing White to a DRAW by repetition!
In summary, Black's chances seem good after 10...Qe6 11.Qb3. White's queen is unhappy on b3.
THE LINE 10...Qe6!? 11.Nd5 Qxe4! 12.Nc7+ Kd7 13.Nxa8 Qxc4 (Introduction)
If White plays 11.Nd5 then 11...Qxe4! (very forcing) 12.Nc7+ (12.Re1 is best met with 12...0-0) 12...Kd7 13.Nxa8 Qxc4 14.Nb6+!? (the horse on a8 was headed for the glue factory anyway. An anonymous poster on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board called "Mid_Sized" has suggested 14.b3!? which can transpose to the "Kastner Line" after 14...Qh4 15.Nb6+ axb6 - see below - although 14...Qa6!? 15.Bb2 Rxa8 seems possible to me) 14...axb6, leaves Black with TWO pawns for the Exchange - i.e., DYNAMIC MATERIAL EQUALITY. After 15.Be3, Black is well-placed after 15...Ra8 (making use of the HALF-OPEN a-FILE) or 15...Nd5! (CENTRALIZATION!). It is somewhat amusing that the White c- and e-pawns which constituted the KEY elements of the Maroczy Bind formation so carefully constructed by Garry are both ELIMINATED in this sequence. At minimum, I believe Black has EQUALIZED after 15...Nd5 in this variation. As always, we should look at some variations to give ourselves more understanding of the position.
FURTHER ANALYSIS IN THE COMPLEX LINE 10...Qe6!? 11.Nd5 Qxe4! 12.Nc7+ Kd7 13.Nxa8 Qxc4, after 14.Nb6+!? axb6
White plays 15.Be3:
A) 15...Ra8 16.Nc3 b5!? 17.a3 Ke8 (with the plan of d6-d5!) 18.Bg5 (18.Rc1 b4 19.Ne2 Qa2! destroys White's queenside) 18...Ne4 19.Nd5
(Is White coming around for second helpings with Nd5-c7+!? Instead 19.Nxe4 Qxe4 20.Re1 Qf5, with advantage to Black, as the tactics after 21.Bxe7 Nxe7 22.Qxd6, are in Black's favor, for example: 22...Qd7 23.Qxd7+ Kxd7 24.Rad1+ Ke8 25.Rd5 Bxb2 26.Rxb5 Bxa3 27.Rxb7 Bd6, and Black has a material advantage and excellent winning chances, as he can attack without risk.)
And now after 19.Nd5, Black has the interesting 19...Nxg5!?
A1) 20.Nb6 Qf4 21.Nxa8 Nh3+!? (this is how they play chess in Latvia!), with:
A1a) 22.Kh1 Nxf2+ 23.Rxf2 (23.Kg1 Bd4, wins for Black) 23...Qxf2 24.Nc7+ Kd7 25.Nxb5 Bxb2 26.Rb1 Be5 27.Qa4 Qf5, and Black is clearly better.
A1b) 22.gxh3 Be5! 23.Kg2 Qxh2+ 24.Kf3 Qxh3+ 25.Ke2 Nd4+ 26.Ke1 Nf3+ 27.Ke2 Nd4+, with a DRAW by perpetual check. Instead, White should play:
A2) 20.Nc7+! (Isn't that so funny? Same fork, different knight and different rook!) 20...Kd8! 21.Nxa8 Bxb2 22.Rb1 Bxa3 23.Nb6 Qc5 24.Qd3 (24.Qd5 Qxd5 25.Nxd5 b4, is good for Black) 24...Nd4 25.Ra1 Nc2 26.Ra2, and now:
A2a) 26...Nb4? loses to the beautiful 27.Qxa3 Nxa2 28.Qa7!! and White wins (but not 28.Qxa2? Qxb6, and it is Black who wins). Better for Black is:
A2b) 26...Qxb6! 27.Rxc2 (27.Rxa3? Nxa3 28.Qxa3, and Black wins) 27...Bc5 28.Ra1, with an UNCLEAR position - Black has a BISHOP + KNIGHT + FOUR PAWNS versus TWO ROOKS.
However, more SOLID for Black than the picturesque 19...Nxg5!? is 19...Rd8 20.Rc1 Qd4, with level chances, as Black need not fear an exchange of queens.
In summary 15...Ra8 is very sharp, and TACTICAL in nature.
Instead of 15...Ra8, a move which is more in keeping with my own personal style is 15...Nd5! (likely best) - a move which is more STRATEGICAL in nature, as the Black knight becomes CENTRALIZED. For example:
16.Qd2 Nxe3, and now:
A) 17.fxe3?! Ra8 18.a3 (18.b3 Qb4 19.Qxb4 Nxb4 20.Nd4 f5, is good for Black) 18...Ra5! and Black has an edge.
B) 17.Qxe3 Qc5 18.Qb3 (18.Qf3 Bxb2 19.Rab1 Bf6 20.Qb3 d5 21.Qxb6 Qxb6 22.Rxb6 Kc7 23.Rfb1 Rb8, and White has not equalized) 18...e6 19.Rac1 Qb4 20.Qf3 Ke7 21.a3 Qb5, with an edge for Black.
White plays 15.b3!?: (The "Kastner Line")
FM Jeff Kastner has suggested the move 15.b3!? on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board - this is a very logical idea where White recovers a tempo against the Black queen for a possible future development of the White bishop on b2. His analysis continues 15...Qh4 (threatening 16...Ng4 and a double attack on h2 and a1) 16.h3 Ne4 17.Rb1 Ra8 18.a4. This position is unclear and very volatile. For example: 18...e6 19.Bb2 (or 19.Be3 Nc5, is unclear) 19...Bxb2 20.Rxb2 Rd8, with an unclear position and a battle between Black's ability to control the center with his knights and central pawns and White's efforts to activate his rooks ensues.
White plays 15.Nc3: (Improving the White knight!?)
15.Nc3 b5!? and now:
A1) 16.Be3 Rd8 17.Rc1 b4 18.Na4 Qb5 19.Nc5+ Ke8, with an edge for Black.
A2) 16.a3 Rd8 17.Be3 (17.Bg5 Ne4 18.Nxe4 Qxe4, is equal) 17...Ke8 18.Rc1 b4, and Black has an edge
A3) 16.Bg5 Ne4 17.Nxe4 Qxe4, and now the following possibilies:
A3a) 18.Qb3 Qc4 19.Qh3+ (19.Qxc4? bxc4 is obviously fantastic for Black) 19...Qe6, as Black should welcome the ending after 20.Qxe6+?! Kxe6.
A3b) 18.Re1 Qf5 19.Be3 h5!? with a nice position for Black.
THE LINE 10...Qe6!? 11.Nd5 0-0?! (11...Qxe4! is STRONGER)
After 11.Nd5 don't be misled by 11...0-0?! (weak) - the idea is to enable the king to be shielded on the kingside and to maintain the integrity of Black's queenside pawns after 12.Nc7 Qxe4 13.Nxa8 Rxa8, and White's c-pawn is too weak to maintain. Unfortunately, in this LESS forcing line, White can play 12.f3! SECURING the e4-point and returning to the business of BUILDING the White position. Therefore, after 11.Nd5, the move 11...0-0?! is INFERIOR to 11...Qxe4!
In summary, Black's chances appear good after 10...Qe6 11.Nd5 Qxe4.
THE LINE 10...Qe6!? 11.Nf4?! (Hidden Resources for Black - "Parting With the Lady")
Finally, after 10...Qe6, what if Black tries (in gambit-style) the move 11.Nf4?! Here Black can calmly play 11...Qxc4, and here is a sample variation: 12.Nfd5 0-0 13.b3 Qc5, and if 14.Be3 (14.Na4 Qa5 15.Bd2 Qd8 maintains an EXTRA PAWN for Black), Black has the beautiful QUEEN SACRIFICE 14...Nxd5!! and now:
A) 15.Nxd5 Qa3 16.Rc1 (16.Bc1 Qa6! 17.Nc7 Qa5 18.Nxa8 Bxa1 19.Bd2 Qxa2, and Black wins, for example: 20.Qxa1 Qxa1 21.Rxa1 Rxa8, or 20.Nc7 Bg7 when in each case, Black has two EXTRA pawns) 16...Qxa2 17.Rxc6 bxc6 18.Nxe7+ Kh8, is winning for Black;
B) 15.exd5 Qxc3 16.Rc1 Qb2 17.Rc2 (17.dxc6 bxc6 is good for Black) 17...Qa3 18.dxc6 bxc6, with a clear plus for Black;
C) 15.Bxc5 Nxc3 16.Qe1 dxc5 17.Rc1 Nxa2 18.Rxc5 Rfd8, with a clear advantage for Black - three minor pieces and a pawn (a MATERIAL ADVANTAGE) - plus lots of BOARD CONTROL in return for the queen.
In summary, Black stands well after 10...Qe6 11.Nf4?!
YOUR MISSION - SHOULD YOU CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IT
I have not found any refutation of 10...Qe6!? - nor have a number of well-known grandmasters (see above) - the move appears to create a dynamic situation (unclear in some lines). The move 10...Qe6!? certainly leads to more ENERGETIC and TENSE chess than the mundane 10...0-0. However you decide to vote, I think many of you might agree with me that the discourse that has taken place on the Microsoft World Team Strategy Bulletin Board over the last few days has been fun and educational. Our time has arrived to try and set the Champion NEW and perhaps unexpected problems to solve. Let's put the weight of THE WORLD on Garry's shoulders and PLAY 10...Qe6!? and TAKE THE BATTLE to the World Champion! I believe 10...Qe6 is a wonderful way to celebrate this HISTORIC chess event.
REFERENCES (with thanks to "Barry" for his help)
(A post on 10...Qe6 11.Nd5 Qxe4 12.Nc7+ Kd7 13.Nxa8 Qxc4 14.Nb6+ axb6)
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/posts/jj/6327.asp
(A post on 10...Qe6 11.Nd5 and brief comparison to 10...0-0)
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/posts/pf/6229.asp
(Another post on 10...Qe6 11.Qb3)
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/posts/uf/6234.asp
(A post on 10...Qe6 11.Qb3)
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/posts/bs/5877.asp
(A post on 10...Qe6 11.Nf4?! and 11.Nd5)
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/posts/pq/5839.asp
(GM Ron Henley's comments)
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/posts/bc/6137.asp
(The Russian GM Chess School site with 10...Qe6 comments.)
http://www.gmchess.spb.ru/english/kasworld/sici13.html
(UK's Barnet Chess Club)
http://www.gtryfon.demon.co.uk/bcc/ then click on "Kasparov vs. World" and then on "Current Analysis".
PAHTZ MOVE 10 COMMENTARY
Qe6 to Kasparov's Nde2
My reply to Garry's 10th move is 10...Qe6 (queen from d7 to e6). At first I considered 10...0-0 or 10...Rc8, which are the moves most often played in this position. Black's chances are not too good. But when I went into the Microsoft chat room, where Irina is very active, I saw that she was
discussing a novelty, 10...Qe6. I found this move very interesting, and
analysed a number of continuations with the program "Hiarcs 7.32". The
variations look more promising for Black. So I decided to go for 10...Qe6.
I hope that this time for once The World will side with the girls.
FELECAN MOVE 10 COMMENTARY
0-0 to Kasparov's Nde2
Otherwise we would have to move the Queen to castle on the other side and this wouldn't be a good place for her. White probably has a slight advantage in this position, but we should be fine.
BACROT MOVE 10 COMMENTARY
O-O to Kasparov's Nde2
We need to complete our development by castling Kingside.
DANNY KING MOVE 10 COMMENTARY
Well done, World Team! You have forced a slight concession from the World
Champion: the Knight has been forced away from its strong central position.
As I suspected, the World Team coaches were united in their choice on the last move: 9...Bg7. And no wonder. The Bishop hits a great diagonal and if Garry hadn't retreated, the Knight on d4 would have been the victim of a nasty tactical shot.
Incidentally, instead of 10 Nde2, it would not have been desirable for
white to exchange Knights on c6: Black would have recaptured with the pawn,increasing his control over the centre, and opening up the b-file for a Rook. Remember, as a general rule, the more centre pawns you have, the
better. Although such tiny positional gains might seem insignificant,
long-term it could be the deciding factor in the game. This is how most
modern day victories are achieved, by the accruing of small positional
advantages, and rarely with a quick thud and crash through to the King. To
win this game the world needs patience!
Now, let's take a look at the options available to black here. Over the
past couple of weeks, I have been emphasizing the need to get DEVELOPED
bring out all your pieces) and CASTLED (to get the King out of the middle)
before attempting anything rash. Here, looking at my database of previous
master games, the vast majority of black players have castled before doing
anything else.
There remains, however, an interesting option, much discussed on the
Bulletin Boards, which goes against these classical principles (I don't
want to mention it in case none of the coaches nominate the move!). All I
am going to say about it is this: consider the situation with the utmost
care before you decide to plunge into the mire of complications.
Patience World! Patience!
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MOVE 11
Voting Results
E6-E4 71.66
O-O 6.61
a8-c8 5.51
E6-D7 4.06
OO-OO 3.67
KRUSH MOVE 11 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nd5
I strongly recommend that the World plays 11...Qxe4 (queen on e6 captures pawn on e4).
1.e4 c5 2.Nf3 d6 3.Bb5+ Bd7 4.Bxd7+ Qxd7 5.c4 Nc6 6.Nc3 Nf6 7.0-0 g6 8.d4 cxd4 9.Nxd4 Bg7 10.Nde2 Qe6 - Sicilian B52 "World Variation"
As we could have expected, the World Champion has played the most FORCING move after our novelty 10...Qe6. White's alternative 11.Qb3 does not test the variation (easy game for Black), and 11.Nf4?! is very dubious.
We have no CHOICE but we do have a PATH
As we have seen from previous posts in the Analysis Section and the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, Black's move in this position is the FORCED move 11...Qxe4. This move initiates the forced sequence 12.Nc7+ Kd7 13.Nxa8 Qxc4, when Black will win White's TRAPPED KNIGHT on a8 to restore the MATERIAL BALANCE.
http//www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
PAHTZ MOVE 11 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nd5
Whoever says 'A' must then say 'B'. Black is now forced to sacrifice the
'exchange' (Rook for Knight) on a8.
Instead, the passive defensive move 11...Rc8 is, in my opinion, poor. Of
course, it prevents the Knight fork on c7, but after 12 f3 leads to an
advantageous position for Garry: the Black Queen would be out of position
on e6, and at the mercy of enemy threats.
I am delighted that The World has chosen to listen to some feminine advice
and voted for the more creative move ...Qe6. With this, play is going to
become more lively, and the World Champion must be on his guard!
FELECAN MOVE 11 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
BACROT MOVE 11 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nd5
The move 10...Qe6 is very interesting, as the position is now unclear. I recommend that we play 11. Qxe4. This is the best move because if The World castles Kingside 11....O-O that would be followed by Garry's 12. f3, protecting the pawn on e4.
DANNY KING MOVE 11 COMMENTARY
The game is starting to smoke! You, The World, have voted for 10...Qe6, the recommendation of Irina and Elisabeth. Ladies, this is WILD.
Normally, it is extremely risky to move the Queen out at such an early
stage of the game. Why? Because the Queen is the most valuable piece on the board (worth roughly 9 points) so every time she gets attacked by another piece, she will just have to move away. The Queen normally only enters the thick of the battle once a few pieces have been exchanged and it is clear there is a safe square available. Moreover, Black's King remains in the centre of the board providing another target for White to aim at.
Irina and Elisabeth are, even at the ages of 13 and 15, very experienced
players, so you would think they ought to know better. Why did they want to embark on such a plan? Answer: only after a thorough analysis of the
position had led them to believe it was safe. Let's examine the last two
moves more closely.
After 10...Qe6 Black was threatening to capture two pawns, the one on c4
with the Queen and the pawn on e4 with the Knight. Now we understand the
motive - pure greed! Well, not entirely. On the last turn Garry could have
saved material, but in so doing would have been forced to make some
positional concessions (11 Qb3). Instead he has chosen to fight fire with
fire (no surprise there) and has gone on the attack.
Garry's last move, 11 Nd5, threatens a lethal KNIGHT FORK on c7. The black
King would be in check, and the Queen and Rook attacked - all at the same
time. How should the World counter the threat? Let's look at some of the
obvious ways.
11...Rc8 prevents the Knight check but would leave Black in a poor position after the simple move 12 f3, defending the e-pawn. Then the Queen would be left looking silly on e6, biting on White's solid pawn chain. Soon she would be attacked and forced to retreat, having gained precisely nothing.
Okay, instead of that, what about capturing the Knight with 11...Nxd5...?
Sorry, but that one is no good either. White recaptures with the pawn, 12
exd5, setting up another 'fork': the pawn threatens both the Queen and the
Knight so Black must lose a piece.
There is only one playable possibility for Black, as I am sure you will see
from the coaches' suggestions. 11...Qxe4 is forced, grabbing a pawn in the
middle, even though it allows that check on c7. There is simply no turning
back. The continuation over the next few moves is likely to be: 12 Nc7+ Kd7
13 Nxa8 Qxc4. Black loses the rook but by way of compensation has grabbed a
couple of centre pawns, and the Knight in the corner isn't too long for
this world. In other words a dynamic material balance will have been
reached.
Once the position has settled I'll be discussing this in greater detail.
This is an extremely sharp continuation requiring the utmost accuracy from
both sides. My advice is to check out the Analysts' suggestions carefully
before deciding on your move.
But for the time being I just want to say 'Well done!' for taking this
brave path. Whatever the outcome of the game I believe we will be forcing
the best from Garry. This is going to be a treat to watch. Stay tuned!
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MOVE 12
Voting Results
E8-D7 92.52 %
E8-D8 4.28
E8-F8 0.82
E8-G8 0.65
E8-C8 0.37
KRUSH MOVE 12 COMMENTARY
Kd7 to Kasparov's Nc7+
I recommend that the World plays 12...Kd7 (king on e8 to d7).
With 12.Nc7+, White FORKS Black's King and the Black Rook on a8. Our
move is FORCED as we must CONNECT our rooks. Although the Rook on a8 is
lost, the White Knight will become TRAPPED and in turn it will be lost
after 13.Nxa8 Qxc4, and Black will successfully recover his/her
material, as White cannot save his Knight on a8.
PAHTZ MOVE 12 COMMENTARY
Kd7 to Kasparov's Nc7+
It is the only possible move in this position. The Rook on h8 must be free to move.
FELECAN MOVE 12 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
BACROT MOVE 12 COMMENTARY
Kd7 to Kasparov's Nc7+
It is the only move to make.
DANNY KING MOVE 12 COMMENTARY
I don't know whether to laugh or to cry. Irina was so inspired by a
suggestion I posted on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board that she
wrote me a poem. Golly gee! Only problem is, the verse was terrible. What
does that say about my idea? Thanks Irina, it is nice to see you so
committed. And by the way, if you would like to get into a detailed
discussion on the game, I can recommend the Bulletin Boards. They are fun, and sometimes even instructive!
The game has followed the predicted course. The World had to capture the
pawn on e4 with the Queen - there was really no turning back - and as he
was a pawn down Garry had to leap in with his knight FORKING king and Rook. This is one of the most lethal weapons in the attacking arsenal. The King must move out of check, and then the Knight is free to capture the Rook in
the corner. The best square for the king is undoubtedly d7, as I'm sure all the Analysts have recommended. That way, after the Rook is captured, the other one can swing over to take the Knight - but not immediately!
The following sequence represents best play over the next couple of moves:
12...Kd7, attacking the knight; the Knight captures the Rook in the corner
- 13 Nxa8 - and now instead of taking the knight immediately, Black
cleverly takes another pawn - 13...Qxc4 - and only then goes back for the
Knight. The point is that the Knight in the corner is not running away, it
is still trapped, so Black can afford to swipe a bit more loot before
taking care of the Knight.
Is it a problem that Black's king is stuck in the middle of the board? That depends! (You can always rely on me for a straightforward answer). At the moment Black's CENTRE PAWNS provide excellent cover for the king, so it isn't in too much danger, indeed, if the Queens are exchanged then the king will be ideally placed to support the pawns in their march down the board. The only problem I can foresee is if White manages to mobilise his forces quickly and gets an attack, but that is not easy to do. However, if there is anyone who can succeed here, it is Garry. He loves to play this kind of dynamic positions.
It is going to be a tense fight over the next few moves. Good luck World!
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MOVE 13
Voting Results
E4-C4 86.69
H8-A8 9.69
F6-G4 0.86
C6-B4 0.39
F6-H5 0.21
KRUSH MOVE 13 COMMENTARY
Qxc4 to Kasparov's Nxa8
I strongly recommend that the World plays 13...Qxc4 (Queen on e4 captures pawn on c4).
FORCED MOVES can be GOOD MOVES
Once again, our move is FORCED. White's Knight on a8 is TRAPPED and won't run away. With 13...Qxc4, we complete the short-term TACTICAL and STRATEGICAL goal of the "World Variation" - the OBLITERATION of White's "Maroczy Bind" PAWN CENTER.
A LESSON IN LOSING (THE BAD 13...Rxa8?)
You may ask yourself, why Black should not capture immediately on a8, as White has no good way to save his c-pawn? 13...Rxa8? is UNSOUND, as the position becomes opened too quickly, and Black is unable to COORDINATE his pieces effectively and rapidly enough to defend himself. The following variations (after 13...Rxa8?) will give you an idea of how quickly Garry will be able to break down the door to the hen-house and start killing all of your chickens:
After 14.Qb3! Ne5 (14...Na5 loses to 15.Qb5+ Kc8 16.Qxa5 Qxe2 17.Re1 Qxc4 18.Bd2, or if 17...Qg4 18.Rxe7, etc.) 15.Be3 Nxc4 (15...Qxc4?? loses immediately to 16.Qxb7+) 16.Ng3, and now:
A) 16...Qd5? (loses a tempo) 17.Rfd1 Qc6 18.Rac1 b5 19.Ne2, with:
A1) 19...a6 20.Nd4 (White is clearly better) 20...Qe4 21.Nxb5! Nxe3 (21...axb5 loses to 22.Qxb5+) 22.Rxd6+! and Black's position is destroyed.
A2) 19...Ng4 20.Nd4 Bxd4 (White wins after 20...Qb6 21.Rxc4 bxc4 22.Qa4+) 21.Bxd4, and Black will not survive the pressure.
B) 16...Qc6 17.Rfc1!? d5 (17...b5? allows 18.a4! with an overpowering attack for White) 18.Bd4 Qa6 19.Bxf6! Bxf6 20.Ne4! Rc8 21.Nxf6+ exf6 22.Qh3+, and White has a winning advantage.
Providing this kind of attacking opportunities to Garry Kasparov is GUARANTEED to end in DISASTER, and we must conclude 13...Rxa8? is a VERY BAD MOVE.
STAY ON COURSE! (THE CORRECT 13...Qxc4!)
Instead, with the CORRECT 13...Qxc4, we are about to enter a complex, sharp middlegame with good chances for Black. Now, from our extensive analysis sessions on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, we expect Garry to play 14.Nb6+. However, IF Garry selects the tricky 14.Nc7, my next post will contain an important WARNING to my fellow teammates (thanks to some superb analysis by contributors to the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board - see you there!).
PAHTZ MOVE 13 COMMENTARY
Qxc4 to Kasparov's Nxa8
This move wins a second pawn. It is not necessary to recapture the Knight on a8 immediately, because it has no square to escape. Kasparov will probably move the Knight to b6 check(14.Nb6+)in order to force 14...axb6. This makes our pawn structure on the Queenside a little ugly. But I think it doesn't matter too much because the structure will give us a lot of dynamic play for the minor pieces.
FELECAN MOVE 13 COMMENTARY
Qxc4 to Kasparov's Nxa8
Since Garry's Knight is trapped on a8, we can use some extra time to take a pawn even though we are giving away the pawn structure(14.Nb6+ axb6).
Black is trying to hit with the "b" or "d" pawn (personally I'm going with
the "d" pawn because White doesn't have a centre anymore). One possible
line would be: 14.Nb6+ axb6 15.Nc3!? (to attack the weakness on b6) 15...d5! followed by d4 and Nd5.
BACROT MOVE 13 COMMENTARY
Qxc4 to Kasparov's Nxa8
I propose the intermediary move Qxc4. In any case, the Knight on a8 is trapped. So The World will get a Knight and two pawns in exchange for the Rook.
DANNY KING MOVE 13 COMMENTARY
"I have no choice..." was Garry's comment as he played his last move 13
Nxa8. Over the past week The World has been calling the shots, forcing the
World Champion to play down a particular sequence of moves if he wants to
hope for an advantage. For the moment he just has to ride it out, then try
to win back the initiative in a few moves time.
The World was in check from the Knight so was obliged to move its King -
that's the rules of the game. Over 90% of The World Team wanted to play the King to the best square, d7, attacking the Knight, and at the same time allowing the Rook on h8 into the game. Good choice!
As the Knight was threatened by the King, Garry had to move it, and the
obvious thing to do was to capture the Rook in the corner. There is a rough scale of values for the chess pieces which helps us to determine what is a good exchange and what is bad. According to this, the Knight is worth three points and the Rook five, so this is definitely a good trade for the Champ. But don't worry, the Analysts have it all figured out. While the Knight made a raid into the corner to get the Rook, The World's Queen is on the rampage in the middle of the board, swiping as many pawns as possible.
I would check out the Analysts' recommendations carefully on this next turn. The obvious move is to take the Knight in the corner with the Rook, but there may be something better...
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MOVE 14
Voting Results
A7-B6 97.73
D7-C7 0.7
D7-E6 0.36
D7-E8 0.15
D7-D8 0.08
KRUSH MOVE 14 COMMENTARY
axb6 to Kasparov's Nb6+
I recommend pawn on a7 captures Knight on b6.
We must play our fourth consecutive FORCED move. Black must capture the
Knight and restore the MATERIAL BALANCE. Black has obtained a KNIGHT plus
two CENTRAL PAWNS for a ROOK. After 14...axb6 we arrive at the first
CRITICAL position of the "World Variation."
Naturally, Garry decided to create a potential weakness in Black's
QUEENSIDE PAWN STRUCTURE by using his trapped Knight as a DESPERADO with
14.Nb6+. White has a number of interesting ways to play his fifteenth
move - we have studiously analyzed the alternatives we consider the most
important on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board. What is White's
best move now? Garry will let us know TOMORROW!
PAHTZ MOVE 14 COMMENTARY
axb6 to Kasparov's Nb6+
What else? The White Knight has to be taken.
FELECAN MOVE 14 COMMENTARY
axb6 to Kasparov's Nb6+
My move is obviously 14...axb6 taking the jumpy Knight. No comments since
this move is totally forced.
BACROT MOVE 14 COMMENTARY
axb6 to Kasparov's Nb6+
This is the only move; we must take the Knight.
DANNY KING MOVE 14 COMMENTARY
What's this? Is the World Champion giving a Knight away for nothing? Is it
a GIFT HORSE, or something more sinister, a TROJAN HORSE perhaps?
Let's work through this one logically. The black King is in check, and
there are only two ways out: move the King or take the Knight. If the king
moves, then the Knight takes the Queen - and without the most powerful piece on the board the game is over! In other words there is no real choice here. I normally hesitate from giving concrete advice but, World Team, here you have no alternative - YOU MUST TAKE THE KNIGHT. Come on guys, I want to see 100% on this one.
The real question is, why exactly is Garry making us this gift? The point
is that the beast is for the chop anyway - the Rook is about to swing over
to take it - so it throws itself away causing the greatest amount of damage
in the process. Once the Knight is captured, the pawns will stand in front
of one another - they will be 'DOUBLED' in chess jargon - and that
constitutes a slight but significant weakness. The pawns can no longer
protect each other, so the rest of Black's army has one more thing to take
care of. As Garry himself says, 'At least Black's pawn structure will not
look intact any more'.
That comment also gives us a clue to one of the Champ's concerns. He
needs targets to aim at in Black's position, and at the moment they aren't
obvious; Black's pawns provide a solid, and at the moment impregnable, wall of cover for the King. But now Garry has created a tiny chink in Black's armour.
By the way, The World's last move, 13...Qxc4, was very coolly played.
Instead of rushing in to take the Knight it was far better to swipe another pawn first as the Knight in the corner couldn't escape its doom anyway - as we have just seen.
The Knight's suicide mission on this last turn was fairly easy to predict,
but it is Garry's next move which is harder to foresee. He has several
interesting options - which all demand an accurate response. This is a
crucial moment in the game for both sides. Stay tuned!
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MOVE 15
Voting Results
H8-A8 48.15
B6-B5 14.71
H8-D8 10.99
D6-D5 4.93
F6-E4 4.22
KRUSH MOVE 15 COMMENTARY
Ra8 to Kasparov's Nc3
I recommend that the World plays 15...Ra8 (rook on h8 to a8)
As was widely predicted on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, the World Champion played 15.Nc3! - clearly the strongest move at White's disposal. For the first time since move 10, Black has an important decision to make (moves 11 through 14 were practically forced). Before we subject Black's various CANDIDATE MOVES to a rigorous analysis, I would like to commend the untiring efforts of my TEAMMATES during the last week. Collectively, we have tested HUNDREDS of variations and ideas and forged them on an analytical anvil the likes of which has never been seen before on the Internet. YOUR tireless efforts have been instrumental in carrying the fight to the World Champion. Your combined energy has in particular been the driving force behind the formulation of my recommendation to you at Black's move 15.
STRATEGIC CONSIDERATIONS AFTER KASPAROV'S 15.Nc3
After introducing an interesting theoretical novelty at move 10, the World has accompanied the World Champion down a narrow path until we have arrived at the position after 15.Nc3.
Material: The sides have MATERIAL EQUALITY - Black has a KNIGHT + 2 PAWNS for a ROOK. However, this dynamic material balance creates different strategic problems for each side.
King Safety: White's king is safely tucked away on the KINGSIDE. Black's king is in the CENTER, behind his wall of CENTER PAWNS (Black's extra pawns as a result of the volley of forced moves that have occurred since move 10). We are taught early in our chess careers that leaving the king in the center of the board during the opening phase of the game is not a wise course to follow. However, there are exceptions to every rule, and for the short term while White is lagging in DEVELOPMENT, Black's king is apparently not exposed to any imminent knock-out blow. Nevertheless, one of Black's long-term strategies will involve the gradual advance of his central PAWN MAJORITY (expanding Black's influence in the CENTER), and for this to be achieved, Black must plan on improving his king position with a MANEUVER such as Kd7-e8-f8-(g8).
Piece Activity and Development: Black, for the time being, has a LEAD in DEVELOPMENT. This is a direct consequence of Garry's forced knight raid to a8. No less than nine of Garry's first fifteen moves have been knight moves (Ng1-f3xd4-e2-c3, and Nb1-c3-d5-c7xa8-b6)! Note also three moves by White pawns (none of which are on the board anymore), and two moves by a White bishop (since departed). This opening is very unusual, don't you think?
Black's pieces are active - Black's QUEEN is centralized (although it may soon acquiesce to a loss of tempo as White unravels - for example, when White plays Ra1-c1); Black's DARK SQUARED BISHOP holds sway over the a1-h8 DIAGONAL; Black's KNIGHTS control key CENTRAL SQUARES, and further centralization is possible (e7-e6, Nf6-d5). Black's ROOK is poised to enter the action (for example at a8 or d8 as circumstances dictate).
For the moment, White has a compact but solid position confined to his first three ranks. White has yet to CONNECT his ROOKS, and it is not yet clear how he should post his QUEEN. In order for White to be able to take the INITIATIVE, he must find a way to activate his heavy pieces (QUEEN and ROOKS). Although the c-FILE is open, and the d- and e-FILES are half-open, Black's plans include the neutralization of the White rooks by blocking the CENTER with his pieces and pawns (for example with e7-e6 and Nf6-d5). White has to make some decisions regarding his QUEENSIDE PAWN STRUCTURE - can he create open lines for his rooks on the queenside - for example, by playing a2-a3 in response to the advance of a Black pawn to b4, or will this merely allow Black to LIQUIDATE his weakness, and reduce White's opportunities for an advantage?
Pawn Structure: For the moment, White enjoys a slight advantage in PAWN STRUCTURE. White has two compact PAWN ISLANDS. Black has a solid array of pawns stretching along d6-e7-f7-g6-h7. However, Black has DOUBLED b-pawns. This latter deficiency is partly compensated for by the fact that Black can pressure White's queenside pawn structure along the half-open a-FILE and the a1-h8 DIAGONAL. Black can also use his front b-pawn to gain SPACE on the queenside, and in certain circumstances rid himself of the doubled pawn by exchanging it for White's a-pawn. The absence of White center pawns reduces White's chances for an attack on the Black king, as White has no central PAWN LEVERS with which to attack Black's central pawns. White's attacking chances primarily lie in active piece play.
Which pieces to exchange: In principle, White should try to AVOID EXCHANGES of pieces as his chances lie primarily in the MIDDLEGAME - although an exchange of a pair of ROOKS can be of benefit to White in many situations (the "redundant rook" theory). On the other hand, Black should try to INITIATE EXCHANGES, especially QUEENS and BISHOPS, and in many cases a pair of KNIGHTS. By exchanging pieces, Black will diminish White's attacking chances and enhance Black's prospects which are primarily in the ENDGAME - thanks to his potentially powerful CENTER PAWNS and CENTRALIZED KING. Many 2R + N versus 1R + 2N endgames are in Black's favor.
THE "NUTS AND BOLTS"
Armed with this STRATEGIC knowledge of the position, and cognizant of the problems facing BOTH sides in this uniquely rich and complicated middlegame, it is necessary to test our ideas with CONCRETE ANALYSIS. I have identified six CANDIDATE MOVES that in some way or other attempt to address Black's ambitions (I do not believe there are any other candidate moves that look to advance Black's plans in the position after 15.Nc3).
A) 15...Ne4? - VERY BAD
This move attempts to exchange White's potentially dangerous knight on c3 without further ado, but after 16.Nxe4 Qxe4, White immediately targets two UNDEFENDED Black pawns (on b6 and f7) with the strong 17.Qb3. Black has no good answer and stands worse. 15...Ne4? should be discarded.
B) 15...Nd4? - VERY BAD
This was a suggestion by "Will" on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board. The move had the laudable idea that after 16.Be3 Nd5 17.Nxd5 Qxd5 18.Qa4+ (or after 18.Bxd4 Bxd4) 18...b5 19.Qa7 Nf5, Black had a playable game. However, Francis Monkman supplied a very effective refutation. White plays 18.Qd2! - White has a clear advantage, and Black has no reasonable answer. 15...Nd4? should be excluded from your consideration.
C) 15...d5? - VERY BAD
For a brief time, this central advance occupied my attention. After all, one of Black's positional trumps is his PASSED d-PAWN. Would it be possible to expand in the CENTER and at the same time maintain a sufficient defensive perimeter for Black's centralized king? Black might further advance with d5-d4, with the maneuver Nf6-d5 in mind, cramping White's efforts to mobilize his forces.
Continuations like 16.Bg5 e6 17.Rc1 Ra8, or 17...Ne4 18.Nxe4 Qxe4, seemed none to clear - I could find no clean refutations of Black's play. Against the more subdued 16.Be3, I found variations like 16...d4 17.Rc1 Nd5 (17...Rd8!? 18.b3 Qa6 19.b4 Ke8 20.b5 Qa8 21.bxc6 dxe3 22.cxb7 exf2+ 23.Kh1 Qxb7 24.Qe2, also seemed OK for Black) 18.Nxd5 (Black is fine after 18.Ne2 Qb4 19.Nc3 Qa5!) 18...Qxd5, to be very unclear.
Nevertheless, if it walks like a duck, and it quacks like a duck - it's a duck! My general feeling of uneasiness about 15...d5? was confirmed when one of my teammates found a convincing refutation of 15...d5? After 16.Na4! Kc7, White has 17.Bg5! with a clear plus - Black's defenses will buckle under the pressure. After this brutal refutation was discovered by "GeneStar", it was clear that my brief affair with 15...d5? was over, for example after 17.Bg5! b5 18.Nc3 d4 19.Bxf6 Bxf6 20.Ne4, I have no faith in Black's position - a line also noted by Karl Juhnke.
D) 15...Rd8? - A VERY DUBIOUS ALTERNATIVE FOR BLACK
This flexible move was a suggestion by GM Ron Henley very early on in the development of 10...Qe6, and has been explored by many analysts. As we saw from our "Strategic Considerations" Black's remaining rook can be ideally placed on d8, where it provides additional DEFENSE for our king, and is dutifully placed "behind the candidate" - our PASSED d-PAWN - "Rooks Belong Passed Pawns!" This flexible continuation seemed viable, as we would be playing a move that was frequently necessary or desirable, without making any serious commitments, and we would be preparing a maneuver Kd7-e7-f8, securing KING SAFETY before making an advance of our d-pawn (and possibly also our e-pawn), for example 16.Qf3!? Ke8, is harmless to Black.
D1) We found that after 16.Be3 b5 17.Rc1 b4 18.Na4 (18.b3 Qa6, is OK for Black) 18...Qb5, we would TRANSPOSE to the variation 15...b5 16.Be3 Rd8 17.Rc1 b4 18.Na4 Qb5 (see Variation F), which is considered to offer Black good chances.
D2) After 16.Bg5 Ke8 17.Rc1 (17.Re1 transposes to 16.Re1 Ke8 17.Bg5 - Variation D3b - see below) 17...Qb4 18.b3 Qa5 19.Bxf6 Bxf6 20.Nd5 Bd4, everything looks OK for Black.
D3) After 16.Re1, Black logically continues with 16...Ke8 (intending Ke8-f8), and now:
D3a) 17.Be3 Qb4!? 18.a3 (18.Qb3 Qxb3 19.axb3 Nd7, leaves White with nothing) 18...Qxb2 19.Na4 Qb5 20.Rb1 Qf5 21.Rxb6 Rd7 22.Qb3 Na5 23.Qb1 Qxb1 24.Rexb1 Ng4, gives Black a good game, while after;
D3b) 17.Bg5 (not 17...b5?! 18.a3 Kf8 19.Rc1! and White transposes to the variation 15...b5 16.a3 Rd8 17.Re1 Ke8 18.Bg5 Kf8 19.Rc1, which after intense analysis on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board has been shown to be very good for White) 17...d5! when ter Haar as shown that Black has an equal game after 18.Rc1 Kf8 19.b3 Qc5 20.Qd3 d4.
Unfortunately, I have NOT found a solution to the idea:
D4) 16.Na4, which looks very troublesome for Black, for example: 16...Kc7 17.b3 Qb5 (17...Qd5 18.Be3, or 17...Qa6 18.Be3 is very good for White) 18.Be3 Nd7 19.Rc1, and I think Black has problems. Therefore, 15...Rd8 is NOT recommended.
E) 15...b5?! - A SHARP AND LIKELY DUBIOUS CONTINUATION - FOR PRACTICAL REASONS I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS MOVE
Early on in my own studies of the opening variation initiated with 10...Qe6!? I gave the natural-looking move 15...b5?! very close scrutiny. I returned time and again to this candidate move, as my attempts to rejuvenate or uncover alternatives seemed to bear no fruit.
With 15...b5?! Black immediately puts his weak DOUBLED PAWN COMPLEX to work. Black gains SPACE on the QUEENSIDE, and often threatens to gain more space with the advance b5-b4, displacing the White knight on c3 and creating a nice OUTPOST on b5 for the Black queen.
Rigorous analysis of the position after 15...b5, with vital feedback from my teammates on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, has convinced me that this is a RISKY borderline-playable continuation for Black which is NOT THE BEST APPROACH to solving the demands of the position.
Although I am NOT going to recommend you play 15...b5, it is worthwhile acquainting yourself with the myriad of tactical motifs which lay in hiding waiting to ambush the unwary, as these motifs are also present in other variations (including 15...Ra8).
A MORE DETAILED EXAMINATION OF 15...b5?! - AND WHY I DECIDED TO LET GO OF MY OLD FAVORITE
E1) 16.Be3 Rd8, and now:
E1a) 17.a4!? b4 18.Nb5, is a very artificial maneuver by White, which does not appear dangerous. After the logical 18...Nd5, Black has a good position. White has voluntarily misplaced his knight, and in return Black has made use of White's knight losing contact with the d5-square to post his knight powerfully in the CENTER. Note the knight can be supported with e7-e6, and therefore not only does it act as an excellent shield for our king, but the move b2-b3 by White (taking the White b-pawn out of the glare of Black's bishop on g7) is also inhibited as White would be weakening his c3-square - an invitation for an eventual visit with Nd5-c3.
E1b) After 17.Rc1, Black plays 17...b4, when 18.Na4 (threatening 19.Nb6+) is met by 18...Qb5, and Black has a very sound position, which has stood the "acid test" of various tactical assaults, for example:
E1b1) 19.Rc5 Qa6 20.Qb3 b5! (20...Ke8! is also very good for Black) 21.Rxc6 (21.Qxf7 bxa4 22.Rxc6 Qxc6 transposes to 21.Rxc6) 21...Qxc6 22.Nb6+ (22.Qxf7 bxa4 23.Qxg7 Qd5! Gives Black a clear advantage, while 22.Rc1? bxa4 23.Qxf7 Qd5, is also very good for Black) 22...Ke8, and now:
E1b1a) 23.Rc1 Qe4, when either 24.a3 Ng4, or 24.Rc7 d5, is good for Black.
E1b1b) 23.Qxb4 Nd7 24.Nxd7 (24.Rc1? fails to 24...Nc5!) 24...Qxd7, and Black is clearly on top.
E1b2) The attempt 19.Qb3 Ke8 20.Nb6 d5 21.a4 Qa6 22.Bc5, makes no progress for White after 22...Ne4! 23.Nxd5 Qa5, for example: 24.Nxe7 Nxc5 25.Nxc6 bxc6 26.Qc2 Nd3! 27.Qxc6+ Kf8 28.Rcd1 Nxb2 29.Rxd8+ Qxd8 30.Qc5+ Qe7 31.Qc8+ Qe8 32.Qc5+ Kg8, and Black is in charge.
E1b3) 19.Bb6? is ineffective due to 19...Ra8 20.Nc5+ (20.b3 Rxa4 21.bxa4 Qxb6, just wins for Black) 20...Kc8! and Black is simply winning.
E1b4) 19.Nb6+?! is also dubious after 19...Ke8 20.a4 (After 20.f3 d5 21.Na4 d4, Black is clearly better, for example: 22.Rc5 Qa6 23.Bg5 b5 24.Qd3 Na7! is winning for Black) 20...bxa3 21.bxa3 d5 22.a4 Qa6 23.Qb3 d4, with a clear advantage for Black.
E1b5) 19.Re1 Ke8 (planning to tuck the king away) is OK for Black, for example 20.f3 allows 20...Nd5 21.Bf2 Nf4, with advantage to Black.
E1b6) 19.Nc5+ Ke8 20.Nb3 Nd5 21.Qd2 Nxe3 (21...Kf8 22.Bh6 e6 23.Bxg7+ Kxg7 24.Rfd1 Ra8 25.Ra1 Ne5, favors Black) 22.fxe3 Ra8, and Black is much better.
E2) Instead of 16.Be3, White can try the more active 16.Bg5, when Black has the excellent response 16...Ne4! (TEMPO!) 17.Nxe4 Qxe4, and now:
E2a) 18.Qb3 Qc4 19.Qh3+ (19.Qxc4? bxc4, is obviously fantastic for Black) 19...Qe6 20.Qd3 (Black welcomes 20.Qxe6+ Kxe6, as his chances are preferable in the endgame) 20...Qc4 21.Qh3+ Qe6, with a draw by repetition most likely;
E2b) 18.Qd2 (A suggestion of "Plain English") is countered by 18...Qd4 19.Qe2 (19.Qxd4 Bxd4, is at least equal for Black) 19...Ra8 20.Qxb5 Qxb2, and Black has an edge;
E2c) 18.Re1 Qf5 19.Qd2 (Black has a nice position after 19.Be3 h5!?) 19...Ra8 20.Rad1 Be5 21.a3 (21.b3 b4 22.f4 loses to 22...Bd4+ 23.Kh1 f6 24.Bh4 Bc3, as there is no longer any mate to worry about) 21...Ra4! and Black has excellent play as given by GM Ron Henley, for example: 22.Be3 Rc4!? when I think Black even has a tiny edge.
E3) The variation 16.a4 b4 17.Nb5, briefly caused some concern on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, but I don't share it. White has misplaced his knight, and after 17...Nd5, Black is doing well, for example: 18.Qf3 Ne5 19.Qh3+ f5!? 20.Bh6 (20.f4? Nd3 is good for Black), and now either 20...Bf6, or 20...Bxh6 21.Qxh6 Nf4, leads to excellent play for Black.
E4) 16.a3 has attracted considerable attention, and various suggestions have been explored and found wanting (for example 16...Rd8 17.Re1! is very dangerous for Black). GM Danny King found the effective and perfectly logical 16...Ne4! which forces the exchange of the White knight on c3 (Nf6-e4 is thematic in many variations. White's Nc3 is a potentially very dangerous piece and should be exchanged off).
After 16.a3 Ne4! (17.Nd5 allows either 17...Qd4, or 17...Bd4!? with a comfortable game for Black - King) 17.Nxe4 Qxe4 18.Re1 Qc4! and Black is OK (King). Now 19.b3 would allow Black to exchange queens with 19...Qd4!
E5) 16.Qf3 is harmless, for example: 16...b4 17.Na4 Qb5 18.Qh3+ e6 19.Bh6 Bxh6 20.Qxh6 Rd8 21.b3 Qh5 22.Qxh5 Nxh5, with an easy game for Black.
E6) We complete our analytical survey by examining what I believe is White's most dangerous try - that is 16.Re1! Logically, play continues 16...b4! (but not 16...Rd8? transposing to another line known to be dangerous for Black) 17.Na4 Qb5, and now:
E6a) 18.Be3, when the original suggestion of 18...Rd8? had to discarded in light of 19.Bb6! (An important difference between this variation and Variation E1b3 (after 16.Be3) is that White already has a rook posted on the half-open e-file) 19...Ra8 20.Nc5+ Kc8 (20...Ke8 loses to 21.Qxd6 Rc8 22.Rac1 Qxb6 23.Rxe7+! and Garry is eating our lunch!) 21.Rxe7! Qxb6 22.Qxd6 Bf8 (22...Qd8 loses to 23.Nxb7) 23.Rxb7 Bxd6 24.Rxb6 Kc7 25.Rb7+ Kc8 26.Rxf7, and White is better and will win the endgame after 26...Bxc5 27.Rxf6 Nd4 28.a4 bxa3 29.bxa3 Rxa3 30.Rxa3 Bxa3 31.Rf7, etc.
However, Black has a simple (and desirable) solution with 18...e6! Black plans to entrench his Nf6 on the d5-OUTPOST, for example: 19.Rc1 (Neither 19.Nc5+ Ke7 20.Nb3 Ra8, nor 19.Nb6+ Ke7 20.Rc1 Rd8, make an impression on Black) 19...Nd5, when Black has a comfortable game - the knight on d5 forms an impenetrable central BARRIER. If White plays 20.b3?! (to safeguard his b-pawn from Black's bishop on g7), Black can play the unpleasant 20...Nc3, further utilizing the advance of the Black b-pawn, for example 21.Nb6+ (21.Nxc3? bxc3 is horrible for White) 21...Ke7 22.Qd2 Ne4! 23.Qe2 (23.Qd1? d5! is good for Black) 23...Qxe2 24.Rxe2 d5, and Black can be happy with the situation on the board.
E6b) 18.a3!? Rd8
E6b1) 19.Bd2 ("zenith") 19...bxa3 20.Rxa3 (20.bxa3 Ke8 21.Rb1 Qa6 22.Rb6 Qa8, is fine for Black) 20...Ke8 21.Nc3 Qf5, and Black is OK;
E6b2) 19.axb4 Qxb4, and now:
E6b2a) 20.Be3 Ke8 21.Bb6 Ra8 22.Bc7 Kf8, with the following possibilities:
E6b2a1) 23.Nb6 Rxa1 24.Qxa1 Ne8! 25.Rf1 Nxc7 26.Nd5 Bxb2! 27.Nxb4 Bxa1 28.Nxc6 (28.Rxa1? loses to 28...Nxb4) 28...bxc6!? 29.Rxa1 Ne6, and Black has a clear plus;
E6b2a2) 23.Re3 Ne8 24.Rb3 Qf4 25.Rf3 (25.Rxb7?! is bad in view of 25...Bd4 26.Qe1 Ne5! with the idea Ne5-d3 ("Peshee"), for example: 27.Bb6 Bxb6 28.Nxb6 Rxa1 29.Qxa1 Ng4, and White is being overrun) 25...Qb4 26.Rb3 Qf4 27.Rf3, forcing a draw.
E6b2b) 20.Bd2 Qb5 21.Nc3 Qb6 22.Qe2!? (or 22.Na4 Qb5, with a draw by repetition) 22...Ke8 23.Be3 Qc7 (Patience is called for) 24.Nb5 Qd7, and Black is solid, for example: 25.Bb6 Rc8 26.Na7 (26.Nd4 Nd5 27.Nxc6 Rxc6 28.Ra8+ Rc8 29.Rxc8+ Qxc8, is equal) 26...Nxa7 27.Rxa7 Nd5, and Black is fine.
E6b2c) 20.Re3!? Ke8 (note that 20...Ng4?? loses instantly to 21.Re4!) 21.Rb3 Qh4 22.Qf1 (as given by Chernoff; but not 22.Rxb7? Ng4, and Black is on top), and now 22...Rd7 (Henley) is a tough nut to crack, despite my repeated efforts to break through Henley's defenses in training games and analysis sessions. For example:
E6b2c1) 23.Nc3 d5 24.Ra8+ Nd8 25.Rba3 e6, with an unclear position, in which Black's chances do not appear worse, but I do not like the nature of the position for Black.
E6b2c2) 23.Nb6 Rd8 24.Ra4 Qh5 25.Rb5 d5 26.Ra8!? (White can force a draw with 26.Na8 Rd7 27.Nb6 Rd8), and now centralization with 26...Qe5 is seemingly OK for Black. For example:
E6b2c2a) 27.g3?! (weakens f3) 27...Rxa8 28.Nxa8 (28.Bf4 is crushed by 28...Qe4 29.Nxa8 Nd4) 28...Nd4 29.Rxb7 Qe2! with danger for White. Instead White must play;
E6b2c2b) 27.Rxd8+ Kxd8, and here is a sample variation: 28.Be3 e6 29.Nc4 Qb8 30.Na5 Nxa5 31.Rxa5 Ng4, and now White can force a draw with 32.Bb6+ Ke7 33.Bc5+ Kf6 34.Bd4+ Ke7 35.Bc5+, etc., or play for complications with 33.f4 (instead of 35.Bc5+), when Black has the answer 33...g5! with sufficient counterplay when Black's chances are not worse. Again, I do not like the nature of the position for Black, as this entire line is fraught with difficulties, and laced with unseen tactical minefields. Black appears to be teetering on the edge of an analytical abyss. REMEMBER - you will be standing on the edge of this abyss with an opponent who knows how to push a position and an opponent to the maximum. The whole variation stemming from an early Rf1-e1 just feels like you are pulling a hungry tiger by his tail!
Based on my analysis of the situations arising from 16.Re1! b4 17.Na4 Qb5 18.a3, I have decided that I CANNOT in good conscience recommend this DANGEROUS variation (with 15...b5?!) to my teammates.
F) 15...Ra8(!) - A DYNAMIC ALTERNATIVE FOR BLACK
This move was a suggestion of one of England's top grandmasters - Jonathan Speelman, although it appears that he had in mind a different follow-up to the one I will summarize in the following analysis.
F1) 16.Be3, and now
F1a) 16...Ra6?! is Speelman's idea (This looks like a strange move - tying a whole rook down to cater to the straggler on b6). After 17.Rc1 Ne4 18.Nxe4 Qxe4 19.Qb3 Qe6, White plays 20.Rc4! (not 20.Qb5? Qxa2, or 20.Qxe6+? Kxe6 with a clear advantage to Black) 20...Bxb2 (20...Rxa2?? loses quickly to 21.Qxa2 b5 22.Qa8) 21.Bxb6 (21.Rb1 Bg7, is good for Black, for example 22.Bxb6? Rxb6 23.Qxb6 Qxc4 24.Qxb7+ Ke6 25.Qc8+ Kf6, and Black wins) 21...Bg7 22.Be3, when I feel the position is good for White - his heavy pieces are becoming more active and are gravitating toward the Black king, and the QUEENSIDE is beginning to open up in an ominous manner. In this line if Black should play 17...Ng4?! (instead of 17...Ne4), White has 18.Nd5! Nxe3 19.fxe3 Qxa2 20.Rxf7 Qxb2 21.Nxe7! Ke8 22.Nxc6 bxc6 23.Qf1, which is much in White's favor.
Nevertheless, there is a more DYNAMIC way of playing the position, in my opinion:
F1b) 16...b5! (analyzed often by Francis Monkman & Krush/Henley), and now:
F1b1) 17.Rc1 Ke8,
F1b1a) 18.b3?! Qh4,
F1b1a1) 19.Nxb5 Rxa2 20.Rc4 Qh5 21.Qxh5 (21.Ra4 Qxd1 22.Rxd1 Rb2, is equal) 21...Nxh5 22.Ra4 Rb2, is equal;
F1b1a2) 19.Qe2 b4 20.Nb5 Kf8 21.Rc4 Qh5, equal;
F1b1b) 18.a3 transposes to 17.a3 Ke8 18.Rc1 (Variation F1b3).
F1b2) 17.Re1 (Chernoff's suggestion) is best met by 17...e6! 18.a3 (If 18.Rc1, Black has the very strange-looking but perfectly acceptable solution 18...Nd5! 19.Nxd5 Qxd5 20.Qxd5 exd5, and despite his newly doubled e-pawns, Black is much better because White's queenside pawns are under heavy fire), and now the direct 18...Ng4 gives Black very good play. It was a review of the unusual "doubled pawn" variation in this line, that turned me towards my final recommendation (15...Ra8).
F1b3) 17.a3 Ke8 18.Rc1 b4!? 19.b3 (19.Na4? is bad because of 19...Qb5 20.Nb6 Ra6, with advantage to Black, while after 19.axb4 Qxb4 20.Qe2 Kf8, Black is OK, for example: 21.Ra1 Ra5! 22.Rfd1 d5 23.Rxa5 Qxa5 24.Qf3 e6 25.Bg5 Nd7 26.Qh3 h5, with a slight edge for Black) 19...Qg4 (also good is 19...Qa6 20.axb4 Nxb4) 20.Nb5 Kf8 21.a4 (or 21.Qxg4 Nxg4 22.axb4 Nxe3 23.fxe3 Bh6! 24.Rc3 Nxb4 25.e4 Nc6, and Black is better) 21...Qxd1 22.Rfxd1 Ne4! with at least equal chances for Black.
F2) 16.Bg5?! is weak because of 16...Ra5 17.Bxf6 (17.Qd2 Nd5! favors Black) 17...Bxf6, and Black is better.
F3) 16.Re1 Ra5 17.a4 (17.Be3 Nd5 18.Nxd5 Rxd5 19.Qe2 b5, is fine for Black, and is an illustration of Black's idea to ACTIVATE his rook along the fourth rank) 17...Rf5! as analyzed by "Bondiman" & Krush/Henley. Now:
F3a) 18.Nb5 Rd5 19.Qf3 Qg4! 20.Qxg4+ (on 20.Ra3, Black can even consider 20...Nb4 - Francis Monkman) 20...Nxg4, with easy equality for Black.
F3b) 18.Be3 Nd5 19.Nxd5 (If 19.Nb5 Nxe3 20.Rxe3, and now I like 20...Re5!? 21.Rxe5 Bxe5 22.Rc1 Qh4 23.g3 Qf6 24.b3 e6 25.f4 Bd4+ 26.Nxd4 Qxd4+ 27.Qxd4 Nxd4, and Black has an edge) 19...Rxd5 20.Qe2 Qxe2 (also good is 20...Qb3!?) 21.Rxe2 b5! 22.axb5 (22.a5?? fails to 22...Nxa5, as White has BACK RANK PROBLEMS) 22...Rxb5, and Black stands a little better
F4) 16.a4!? is critical, White intends Nc3-b5 to try and lock out the rook. Even though White achieves this, he is unable to prevent Black from obtaining a playable game after 16...Ra5 17.Nb5 (17.Be3 Nd5 18.Nxd5 Rxd5 19.Qf3 Rf5, is fine for Black - "Stan") 17...Nd5, for example:
F4a) 18.Bd2 Bxb2! 19.Rb1 (19.Bxa5 Bxa1, is great for Black) 19...Bc3, and now:
F4a1) 20.Rc1 Nd4, with;
F4a1a) 21.Nxd4?! Qxd4 22.Bxc3 Nxc3 23.Qf3 (23.Qxd4 Ne2+ 24.Kh1 Nxd4, and Black is clearly better) 23...Rc5 24.Qxb7+ Rc7 25.Qf3 f5, with a clear plus for Black;
F4a1b) 21.Nxc3 Nxc3 22.Bxc3 Ne2+ 23.Kh1 allows 23...Rh5! (Francis Monkman) 24.h3 (24.Qc2?? Rxh2+! 25.Kxh2 Qh4 mate; 24.f4 Nxc1 25.Qxc1 Rc5, with an edge for Black, as White's a-pawn is weak) 24...Nxc1 25.Qxc1 Rc5 26.Bb2 Qxa4, and Black has the favorable chances.
F4a2) 20.Bxc3 Nxc3 21.Nxc3 Qxc3 22.Rxb6 Kc7 23.Qb1 Ra7 24.Rb5 (24.Rb3 Qd4, favors Black - weakness on a4 - while 24.Qb5 Nd4 25.Qb4 Kb8 26.Rb1 Qxb4 27.R1xb4 Ne2+ 28.Kf1 Nc3, is good for Black) 24...Qa3 25.Re1 Qxa4 26.Qb2 e5!? and Black has an edge.
F4b) 18.Re1 e6 19.Bd2 Ra8 20.b3 Qh4 21.Rc1 Ne5! (Koval) gives Black good counterplay, for example: 22.g3 Qg4 (22...Qh3!? is possible) 23.Qxg4 Nxg4 24.Bf4 Be5, with equal chances. Black's chances in this variation were the final pieces of the puzzle for me in putting forward my recommendation of 15...Ra8.
The continuation 15...Ra8 not only appears sound but is a dynamic response with active piece play and excellent endgame prospects in keeping with the spirit of the 10...Qe6 system. The hyperactive 15...b5?! should be AVOIDED, while plainly inferior moves such as 15...Rd8? 15...Ne4? 15...Nd4? and 15...d5? should NOT even enter your consideration. I will therefore go with my preferred choice of 15...Ra8.
This analysis, formulated in large part via interaction with my teammates on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, has led me to RECOMMEND the move 15...Ra8 for Black at this juncture.
PAHTZ MOVE 15 COMMENTARY
b5 to Kasparov's Nc3
15...b6 to b5. Over the last few moves, there was no going back for either side. Black bravely went chasing after pawns with his Queen. In return, White picked up the Black Rook on a8 with a fork. At the moment Black's central pawns on e7 and d6 provide excellent cover for the uncastled Black King. So at the moment, there is no danger.
Now we, The World, have to be on our guard. Garry's strengths now come into play, for he loves wild positions which promise double-edged play. However, if we keep cool, then we can get him. The intention of the advance of the b-pawn is to drive the Knight from its ideal square on c3, moreover, Black seeks to rid himself of the doubled pawn.
FELECAN MOVE 15 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's Nc3
My next recommendation for black is 15...d6-d5. It looks risky but it may be the only way to prevent white from putting pressure on Black's weaknesses on the queenside. Possible 16. Bc1-e3 d5-d4 17. Ra1-c1 Rh8-d8! followed by Kd7- e8(I don't like 17... Nf6-d5 because of 18. Nc3-e2 Qc4-b4 19. a2-a3! Qb4xb2 20. Rc1-b1 and black's position is worse because of his exposed king). I believe that we have to push our passed pawn as quickly as possible in order to limitate white's options before heading into an ending.
BACROT MOVE 15 COMMENTARY
Rd8 to Kasparov's Nc3
I don't like this move: 15...Ra8 because of the line: 16. Be3 e5 (advancing The World's pawn forward two squares) then 17.Rc1 Ke8?! 18.Bg5 giving White a better position. Maybe in this line: 17...e6 would be playable. So I prefer the safer move 15...Rd8.
DANNY KING MOVE 15 COMMENTARY
The percentage of votes for The World's last move, 14...axb6, was a massive 97.73%, not quite the blank-out I asked for, but I'm satisfied all the
same! In reply, the World Champion has chosen to move his Knight to a
slightly more aggressive post on c3. More on this a little later. For the
moment, let's consider the position as a whole.
This is the first time that the position has stabilised since the
remarkable move 10...Qe6, so it is a good opportunity to sit back and take
stock. First let's take a look at the balance of pieces. In the flurry of
captures over the last few moves Black has gained a Knight and two pawns,
and that is matched by White, who bagged the Rook in the corner. Going by
the standard chess values, a Knight is worth three points and the pawns one each (a total of five) which is equal to a rook, worth five on its own. In other words, a roughly EQUAL EXCHANGE has taken place.
Now let's weigh up the pros and cons of the White and Black positions. The
most obvious difference between the two sides is THE POSITIONING OF THE
KINGS. White's is tucked away in the corner behind a barrier of pawns,
totally safe; black's, on the other hand, is still in the middle of the
board. Normally this would not be a good spot for the Black King -
castling, as Garry has done here, is standard practice in top games - but
here the World can get away with it as the King also has a shield of pawns
for protection.
In fact it is these pawns which give black, potentially, an excellent
position. Right at the start of the game I spoke about the importance of
CONTROLLING THE CENTRE, and the best way to do that is WITH THE PAWNS.
Imagine if those two central pawns on the d and e files were to roll down
the board: they would be tremendously powerful as there are no white pawns
to oppose them. At the moment such a plan is simply IMPOSSIBLE. Black's
King would suffer from the X-factor - EXPOSURE. Very nasty indeed. However, if the Queens were exchanged, so reducing white's attacking chances, then the pawn advance would become a possibility.
Aside from the pawns, how about the positioning of the other pieces? Black
is actually better developed than White, in particular that Bishop on g7,
searing across the long diagonal, has great potential. For the moment it is far better than its counterpart on c1. Garry's last move, 15 Nc3, was partly directed against that Bishop as it blocks the diagonal. This Knight also casts an eye in the direction of the pawn on b6.
Remember how White's Knight carried out a suicide mission, giving itself up on b6? The point is now revealed. The pawn on b6 is a little vulnerable to attack as it cannot be supported by another pawn. In chess jargon the pawns on the b-file are DOUBLED and ISOLATED. Sounds painful and, believe me, it can be. Garry will be looking to attack the pawn on b6, possibly with the Knight, and perhaps with the bishop from e3. Once the Bishop emerges, White can also move the rook to c1 with an indirect attack on Black's Queen.
The next few moves are going to be crucial. Garry is looking to mobilise
his army as rapidly as possible to begin an attack on the King and the
Queenside pawns; while The World's aim must be to neutralise that attack,
possibly by exchanges, perhaps by skillful piece positioning, with the hope that in the long-term he will emerge with the superior pawn structure.
Check out the Analysts recommendations carefully on this turn and join in
the discussion on the bulletin boards if you have time; you need to make an informed choice here as it is really not clear what the best move is for Black.
I am still optimistic about Black's long-term chances - so long as The
World can solve the short-term difficulties.
Good luck!
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MOVE 16
Voting Results
F6-E4 50.33
C6-D4 14.06
A8-A5 12.81
D6-D5 8.11
F6-G4 2.39
KRUSH MOVE 16 COMMENTARY
Ne4 to Kasparov's a4
I recommend the World plays 16...Ne4 (Knight on f6 to e4)
SUMMARY
After countless hours of examining all the viable-looking alternatives for Black (16...Ra5, 16...Ke8, and 16...Nd4), I am recommending that the World CENTRALIZES and further ACTIVATES its forces with the move 16...Ne4. This move is designed to exchange off White's knight, and to initiate further exchanges and/or create active play against the White king.
ANALYSIS
With 15...Ra8, Black ACTIVATED his rook and threatened the MANEUVER Ra8-a5-f5. White responded with 16.a4 intending to meet 16...Ra5 with 17.Nb5, keeping our rook "boxed in".
It is always important to examine EACH position without prejudice, and look at all of our options each and every move through the eyes of innocence. The move I am proposing - 16...Ne4 is a logical continuation of the strategy commenced with 10...Qe6, which led to a sequence where Black cleaned out White's center. We then activated our rook, which completed our DEVELOPMENT and provoked the weakening advance of the White a-pawn. With 16...Ne4, Black offers to exchange White's only developed piece, and opens the long diagonal for his dark-squared bishop. Black's queen, bishop, and knight on c6 all exercise an authority over the d4-square, so Black will be able to post a piece firmly in the center at a time of his choosing.
Let's analyze my proposal:
16...Ne4!? and now:
A) 17.Qd5?! Qxd5 18.Nxd5 Ra6 19.Be3 Nc5, Black has a small edge.
B) 17.Qg4+?! seems to have no point. After 17...f5! Black is fine, when 18.Qh4 Nd4 looks great for Black.
The critical line is:
C) 17.Nxe4 Qxe4 18.Qb3 (This is not the only thing White can do, for example, White can play 18.Re1, but after for example 18...Qb4, I feel Black has a nice position), and now 18...Nd4! is very pretty, for example:
C1) 19.Qxb6?? Ra6 20.f3 (20.Qb4 loses the White queen to 20...Ne2+) 20...Qd5 21.Qb4 Nc2, with a winning fork. Notice how the magic ingredient 19...Ra6 is available because we played 18...Ra8.
C2) 19.Qxf7? Nc2 20.Ra3 (20.Ra2? is just crushed by 20...Ne1!!) 20...Nxa3 21.Qxg7 Nc2 22.b3 Ne1!? 23.f3 Qe2 24.Qb2 Qxb2 25.Bxb2 Nd3, and Black with an extra pawn stands better.
C3) 19.Qh3+, and now probably simplest is 19...Qf5, and if 20.Qxf5+ Nxf5, Black has a nice position. Note that White cannot take our h-pawn in this variation with 20.Qxh7, because of 20...Ne2+ 21.Kh1 Rh8 22.Qxg7 Rxh2+! 23.Kxh2 Qh5 mate!
I believe that with the move 16...Ne4 (a logical follow-up to 15...Ra8), Black is demonstrating equality.
PAHTZ MOVE 16 COMMENTARY
Ra5 to Kasparov's a4
My recommendation is 16...Ra5.
With 16.a4, Garry chose the best move. Now after 16...Ra5 he is intending 17.Nb5 to block The World's Rook. Nevertheless, I think The World should go for this, because after the Knight moves to b5, The World will gain the d5 square for its Knight. From this beautiful position in the centre of the board, The World's influence extends over many important squares.
FELECAN MOVE 16 COMMENTARY
Nd4 to Kasparov's a4
My next move is 16...Nd4. I was analyzing 16...Nb4 but after 17.Be3 Nfd5
18.Nxd5 Nxd5 19.b3 Qe4 20.Rc1 e6(premature 20...f5 21Re1!)21.Rc4 followed
by 22.Qc1 or 21.Qe2 gives White a clear advantage. After 16... Nd4 I considered that White has two options: either
17.Be3 or 17.Ra3
After 17.Be3 black can play 17...Nb3 18.Ra3 Nc5 19.Qb1(interesting but
probably not enough)19...Nfe4(interesting 19...Qb4!?)20. Nxe4 Qxe4 with a
good play for Black; 21. Qxe4 Nxe4 22.Rb3 Rxa4 23. Rxb6 Kc7 24.Rc1+ Kb8
After 17. Ra3 black has a very powerful blow with 17...b5! 18.Nxb5 Nxb5
19.axb5 Rxa3 20.bxa3 Qxb5 and Black has a better position because of his
active pieces, especially the Queen and the Bishop.
The ideas behind 16...Nd4 are to control the b5 and b3 squares and to find a better place for the Knight on c5 via b3-c5 or e6-c5.
BACROT MOVE 16 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's a4
Yesterday, The World chose a move which one I don't like much (15... Ra8).
Now there are two main lines:
16...Ra5 (with idea Nd5) 17.Nb5 Nd5 18.Bd2 Ra8 with reciprocal chances.
16...d5 17.Nb5 d4 18.Re1 Qd5 19.b3 Ne4 with a good position in the centre.
I recommend the more active move 16...d5
DANNY KING MOVE 16 COMMENTARY
On the last turn, the World chose to bring its last inactive piece into the game with 15...Ra8, swinging the rook to a so-called SEMI-OPEN FILE (more chess jargon!). This is good strategy. In chess, like in other sports, to be successful you need to use all your team. Can you imagine playing a football game with half your men sitting on the bench?
Garry has responded by advancing the a-pawn, which is solidly protected by
his Knight, Rook and Queen; in other words it is in no danger of being
taken. Why has he done this? It is partly to neutralise the effectiveness
of the Rook on a8 (though it can still enter the game via a5); but, perhaps more significantly, Garry's pawn advance FIXES THE PAWN ON B6.
I have already discussed how the DOUBLED PAWNS on the b-file can prove to
be weak as they are no longer able to defend themselves. By playing 16 a4,
the World Champion ensures that THE BLACK PAWN CANNOT ADVANCE WHEN ATTACKED - it will just be taken by the Knight. A static target is far easier to hit than a moving one! So, for instance, moving the Bishop to e3 to attack the pawn now comes into consideration.
Moreover, White might, in some circumstances, consider planting his Knight
on the b5 square, solidly supported by the a-pawn. All-in-all, 16 a4 is a
clever, multi-purpose move.
Does it have any drawbacks? I think so - in chess nothing is ever black and white! Although the a-pawn's advance has won some squares, it has also
conceded some. For instance, the b4 and b3 squares are now a little weaker
as they can no longer be protected by a pawn. That means that Black might
find a stable square for a piece on one of them a little later.
All this fighting for squares and identifying weaknesses might seem a
little too subtle for some tastes, but is quite typical of top games
nowadays. A century ago one might have got away with a lightning assault on the King, but times, and defensive techniques, have changed!
Good luck with your next choice.
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MOVE 17
Voting Results
C4-E4 95.9
D7-E6 0.69
C6-D4 0.43
F7-F5 0.35
C4-F1 0.26
KRUSH MOVE 17 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nxe4
My recommended Queen on c4 captures Knight on
e4 is A FORCED move, as we must recapture the Knight on e4.
PAHTZ MOVE 17 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nxe4
The Knight must be taken back, so the only move is 17...Qxe4.
FELECAN MOVE 17 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nxe4
It is the only move for us to make, since we have to recapture
the Knight. What Garry prepared for his 18th move is interesting;
possibly 18.Qb3 with a double attack on b7 and f7. Then we have to consider 18...Bd4!? with the following 19.Qxf7 Ne5 and Ng4. Anyway, with Black's 16...Ne4, the game develops (or deviates) to the tactical(resources)stage.
BACROT MOVE 17 COMMENTARY
Qxe4 to Kasparov's Nxe4
There is nothing else to do - we have to take the Knight.
The critical position will arise after 17...Qxe4 18.Qb3 Nd4 19.Qxf7,
and we will have to play very precisely to hold our equality.
DANNY KING MOVE 17 COMMENTARY
Just when I thought the position was about to settle down to some subtle
maneuvering, we plunge once more into a mire of complications! It was
interesting that each of the Analysts, all experts, recommended a different move, which attests to the complexity of the position. Often in a game of chess there is not one objectively best move; it can just be a matter of taste what one plays - within limits of course. If you have a penchant for giving away your pieces you won't last long!
The World chose to play 16...Ne4, offering to exchange Knights. This is a
very principled decision. I have mentioned previously how in the SHORT-TERM WHITE has dangerous ATTACKING CHANCES, but in the LONG-TERM, with his
powerful CENTRAL PAWN MASS, BLACK has good prospects. With every exchange,
the pawn mass becomes more potent, and white's attacking prospects are
reduced. In particular an EXCHANGE OF QUEENS would be highly DESIRABLE FOR
BLACK. That would instantly minimise the (potential) danger to Black's
King; indeed it would be well placed to support the centre pawns.
An exchange of Knights brings The World a step closer to the long-term goal of an ENDGAME - a position with just a few pieces on the board. Yes, in principle, 16...Ne4 is STRATEGICALLY a good move. My only concern is, does it work TACTICALLY? In other words, is there a short-term shot we are
missing? Garry has chosen to go in for the exchange with 17 Nxe4 - he could have avoided it with 17 Nd5 - so I have a funny feeling he has something up his sleeve on the next move. Let's see.
Once again, the next few moves are going to be absolutely critical for both sides; though you shouldn't have too much trouble with this next one...
Good luck World!
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MOVE 18
Voting Results
F7-F5 43%
C6-D4 35%
E7-E6 9%
C6-E5 3%
G7-D4 3%
KRUSH MOVE 18 COMMENTARY
f5 to Kasparov's Qb3
I highly recommend that the World plays 18...f5 (pawn on f7 to f5).
SUMMARY
At each and every turn in such a sharp chess middlegame, there awaits a microcosm of seemingly unending complications and secrets waiting to be explored. Over the last few days, on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, we have witnessed a fascinating debate over various possibilities for Black after White's 18.Qb3. Why could we expect such a move from Kasparov? Because 18.Qb3 is the most direct approach at White's disposal to combat Black's dynamic new opening system. I have actively participated in discussions on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board on three candidate moves for Black. Each of these moves held some appeal, but under close scrutiny failed, in my opinion, to fully meet the demands of Black's position. In my Analysis Section, I will briefly indicate why I eventually declined to recommend any of these moves to my teammates. In more detail, I will present a case for my recommendation - the enterprising and dynamic 18...f5 - an analytical project initiated by the GM Chess School, and collaborated on by me.
ANALYSIS SECTION - WHY I WON'T RECOMMEND 18...Bd4, 18...e6, or 18...Nd4
A) 18...Bd4
I realized the option 18...Bd4? was not viable, as after 19.Qxf7 Ne5 20.Qb3 Ng4 (or 20...Nd3 21.Qb5+! Kd8 22.Bd2, leaves White clearly better), and now the straightforward 21.Qb5+ Qc6 22.Qd3 Qd5 23.Ra3! Rf8 24.Qe2, leaves White with a clear advantage.
B) 18...e6?!
A second alternative for Black involves keeping the f7-point intact with 18...e6?! After 19.Qxb6 Nd4 20.Kh1, White will stand better, for example:
B1) 20...Qc6 21.Qxc6+ bxc6 22.Ra3! c5 23.Bd2 Nc2 24.Rf3 Ke8 25.b3 Nd4 26.Rd3 Rb8 27.Bc3! and White has an advantage;
B2) 20...Ra6 21.Qb4 Qc6 22.Rd1 Rb6 (22...Nc2 23.Qf4, is good for White) 23.Qd2! and White keeps an edge, for example: 23...Nb3 24.Qf4, with a clear plus for White;
B3) 20...Nc2 21.Qb5+ Qc6 22.Qxc6+ bxc6 23.Ra2 c5 24.b3 Nd4 25.Bb2, and White is better.
C) 18...Nd4?!
After this sharp response, White continues with 19.Qxf7, and now Black has a choice between 19...Bf6, 19...Nc2, or 19...Ne6.
C1) 19...Bf6!? (GM Chess School) remains with unresolved problems after 20.Ra3! for example:
C1a) 20...Nc2 21.Rf3! Ne1 22.Rg3 Be5 23.Bd2! with a clear advantage for White.
C1b) 20...Rxa4 21.Rxa4 23.Be3 Qb5 24.Re1 Qxb2 25.Qd5! Nd4 26.Qxb7+ Ke8 27.Qd5! and White has a clear advantage (and threatens to clean house with 28.Qxd6!);
C1c) 20...Ne2+ 21.Kh1 Nxc1 (21...Ra5? loses to 22.Re3) 22.Rxc1 Rc8 (not 22...Rxa4?? 23.Qg8, and White wins) 23.Raa1, and White is clearly better, for example:
C1c1) 23...Qxa4 24.Qxh7 Rxc1+ (24...Bxb2? loses to 25.Qh3+) 25.Rxc1 Bxb2 26.Re1 Be5 27.Qxg6, is good for White, and;
C1c2) 23...Rxc1+ 24.Rxc1 Bxb2 25.Qc4 Qxc4 26.Rxc4, and White is clearly better in the endgame, and should win.
C2) Instead, after 19...Nc2 (my original suggestion), we have 20.Bd2! (White's strongest continuation, found by "Martin"), and now:
C2a) 20...Bxb2 21.Ra2 Bf6 22.Qb3 Nd4 23.Qxb6, with a clear plus for White, "Martin".
C2b) 20...Bd4 21.Rab1 Rxa4 22.Qxh7 Qf5 23.Bc3 Bc5 24.Rbd1 Rf4 25.Rd2 Ne3 26.Re1! Nd5 27.Rxd5! Bxf2+ 28.Kh1 Qxd5 29.Qxe7+ Kc6 30.Qe8+ Kc5 31.Rc1! winning for White.
C2c) 20...Nxa1, and now a series of mutually forcing moves: 21.Re1 Qh4 22.Qd5 Rf8 23.Qxb7+ Ke8 24.Qc6+ Kf7 25.Qd5+ Ke8 26.Qb5+ (Protects White's b-pawn) 26...Kf7 27.Rxa1 Qd4, and now:
C2c1) 28.Be3 Qxb2 29.Qxb2 Bxb2 30.Rb1 Bc3 31.Rxb6 Ra8 32.Rb3, or
C2c2) 28.Qb3+ Ke8 (28...e6?! 29.Re1 Re8 30.Qf3+ Kg8 31.Qc6 Rf8 32.Be3 Qb4 33.Rb1 Bd4 34.Qd7 Bxe3 35.Qxe6+ Kg7 36.Qxe3 Qxa4 37.Qxb6, with a solid extra pawn for White) 28...Ke8 29.Be3 Qxb2 30.Qxb2 Bxb2 31.Rb1 Bc3 32.Rxb6 Kd7 33.Rb7+, leads to ROOK + BISHOP endgame, where White enjoys the advantage of having an OUTSIDE PASSED PAWN. Although Black can hope to generate counterplay with his passed d-pawn, Black will have many TECHNICAL PROBLEMS to overcome in order to hold the game. This variation clearly illustrates Black's weakness on the LIGHT SQUARES after sacrificing his f-pawn.
C3) Finally (after 18...Nd4 20.Qxf7), there is 19...Ne6?! (threatening 20...Rf8). This falls short after 20.Bg5! Nxg5 21.Qxg7 Ne6 22.Qh6! leading to a clear White advantage.
MY RECOMMENDATION TO MY TEAMMATES - 18...f5
For the last few days, I have been in contact with my friend GM Alexander Khalifman, who had worked long and hard at the GM Chess School on a fourth possibility that, in my opinion, is the best continuation for Black - namely 18...f5. Following a number of analysis sessions and with feedback from Alexander and the GM Chess School, I began to deeply study and appreciate the quality of the move 18...f5 and its strategic goals. The analysis that follows is the result of collaboration between myself and my friends and colleagues at GM Chess School and SmartChess Online. As an analyst, I have a responsibility to make use of all the resources "The World" has to offer.
Let us examine the strategic and tactical ideas behind this energetic thrust with our f-pawn. What do we accomplish?
a) By moving our f-pawn from under attack, we do not allow White the opportunity of tearing the tapestry of our KINGSIDE PAWN STRUCTURE apart with Qb3xf7. It is far better to jettison the doubled b-pawn for active piece play and initiative than allow the VITAL f-pawn (which comprises part of our central pawn mass and king shield) to become compromised. By playing 18...f5 we preserve the INTEGRITY of our PAWN STRUCTURE! (We maintain the chain of pawns from h7-d6).
b) On f5 this pawn serves the double duty of protecting our Queen on e4, and prevents a possible Qb3-h3 check.
c) With the further advance of this pawn to f4, this valuable little helper will deprive the enemy Rooks and Bishop of the e3-square, and the enemy Rooks and Queen of the g3-square.
d) The further advance to f3 (Supported by the Black Queen and Knight) could actually lead to AN ATTACK ON KASPAROV's KING!
e) Much later down the road (after the exchange of Queens in many variations) this pawn has already advanced up the board and is in position to help his teammates on the e- and d-files as they combine to storm the White position in the endgame!
Now let us look at some of the possible variations following 18.f5.
D) 18...f5
D1) If White plays the aggressive 19.Bg5, Black has the powerful CENTRALIZING move 19...Qd4! For example:
D1a) 20.Rfd1 Qxb2, is good for Black as 21.Rxd6+? exd6 (21...Kc7!? also wins but there is nothing to fear as White's Rook on a1 will be HANGING) 22.Qf7+ Kc8, and Black is winning;
D1b) 20.Rad1 Qxa4 21.Qxb6 (21.Qf7 Bxb2 22.Qxh7 Qg4, is good for Black, for example 23.Qxg6 loses to 23...Ne5) 21...Qb4, and Black has an edge;
D1c) 20.Qf7, when the White Queen is ejected with 20...Rf8, and Black is better;
D1d) 20.Be3 Qxb2, is just good for Black;
D1e) 20.Rab1 Rxa4, with advantage to Black;
D1f) 20.Rfe1 Be5, and Black is OK.
Alternate modes of development by White allow Black good play for example:
D2) 19.Be3 Qb4 20.Qxb4 (if 20.Qf7 Be5! with the idea f5-f4) 20...Nxb4 21.Bxb6 Nd3 22.a5 Rc8 (but not 22...Nxb2? 23.Rac1, with a plus for White) 23.Rab1 Nxb2 24.Be3 d5 25.Rfc1 Rc7, and Black is OK.
D3) 19.Ra3 Nd4 20.Qf7 Ne2+ 21.Kh1 Bd4 22.Bg5 Nf4 23.Bxf4 Qxf4, with dynamic play.
In Chess "To get something you have to give up something"! Thus it is true in this position (after 18.Qb3 f5!), as in order to obtain all the positive benefits associated with maintaining our VALUABLE f-pawn, we must be willing to part with his weak brother on b6. HOWEVER, although surrendering this pawn may well be the "Acid Test" of 18...f5, nonetheless it gives Black TIME and EXPOSES the WHITE QUEEN to POTENTIAL DANGER.
D4) 19.Qxb6 Nd4!
This Knight leap into the center allows our Queen on e4 to defend our pawn on b7, and indeed threatens 20...Ra6 trapping the White Queen! (note 21...Ra6 22.Qb4 Ne2+ discovered check is a recurring motif). And now:
D4a) 20.a5 is a clever resource based on tactics which allows White to extricate his Queen while avoiding heavy casualties: 20...Ra6 21.f3 (Counterattacking the centralized Black queen is White's "Saving Grace") 21...Qd5 (The Black Queen must maintain the protection of the vital b7-pawn) 22.Qb4 b5!
This classy and dogged pursuit of the INITIATIVE demonstrates the power and use of centralized and coordinated pieces versus simply playing for short-term tactical tricks. Now Black renews the threat of 23...Nc2, while squeezing the White pieces. For example:
D4a1) 23.Rb1 Nc6 24.Qd2 (Attacking the Black pawn on h7 with 24.Qh4, would merely allow Black to force the exchange of Queens with 24...Qd4+ 25.Qxd4 Bxd4+ 26.Kh1 Rxa5, with the ideal big endgame advantage for Black) 24...Qd4+ 25.Kh1 Rxa5, when Black has recovered his sacrificed pawn (the b6-pawn), and with the better DEVELOPMENT he is poised to exchange Queens and reap his reward in the ENDGAME!
D4a2) 23.Qd2 Qc4! (Unpinning our Knight so we can threaten the fork with 24...Nb3. White also has to be concerned about nasty secondary threats such as 24...Nc2 followed by 25...Bd4+, when his Rook on f1 may be hanging to the Black Queen on c4) 24.Qd1 (if 24.Qf2 Nc2 25.Rb1 Bd4, and Black wins) 24...Nb3 25.Rb1 (Forced as 25.Ra3? Nxc1 26.Qxc1 Bd4+! 27.Kh1 Qxc1 28.Rxc1 Bxb2 is a COMPLETELY WON ROOK ENDGAME for BLACK: 29.Rca1 Bxa1 30.Rxa1 b4 31.Ra4 Kc6 32.Rxb4 Rxa5, etc.);
D4a3) The attempt to use "Lateral Defense" with 23.Rf2 to defend the c2-square would fail tactically to 23...Nc2 (23...Nb3!? may well net more MATERIAL for Black) 24.Rxc2 Qd1+ 25.Kf2 Qxc2+ 26.Kg3 Qc4! winning for Black;
D4a4) The attempt to promote a pawn by sacrificing a Rook with 23.axb6 loses by force to 23...Rxa1 24.b7 Nc6 25.b8=Q Nxb4 26.Qxb4 Qd4+! 27.Qxd4 Bxd4+ 28.Kh1 Bxb2, etc.
D4b) With 20.Bd2, White develops his Bishop, connects his Rooks, and most importantly provides a "Protected Square" on b4 so his Queen may safely retreat. After 20...Ra6 21.Qb4, Black has the powerful Queen retreat 21...Qc6! which takes full advantage of the wonderful range of the centralized Black pieces (The d4-Knight in particular), and introduces the threat of 22...Nc2, recovering the Exchange under FAVORABLE CIRCUMSTANCES for BLACK. Note White can't challenge the Black Queen with his Rooks on c1, as that would allow the alternate Knight fork (Nd4-e2 check). Some sample variations:
D4b1) 22.Rfc1? Ne2+ 23.Kf1 Nxc1 24.Rxc1 Rxa4! 25.Rxc6 Rxb4 26.Bxb4 bxc6, with a WINNING two pawn plus BISHOP ENDING;
D4b2) Trying to remove the White Rook from the "Fork Square" on a1 while keeping his a4-pawn protected with 22.Ra2? would allow the Black Knight to "Strut some more of his Stuff"! after 22...Rb6 23.Qa5 (23.Qc3? loses to 23...Ne2+) 23...Nb3 (The third (!) square the Black Knight can fork on!) 24.Qa8 Nxd2, and Black has an OVERWHELMING MATERIAL ADVANTAGE;
D4b3) White could simply RETURN THE EXCHANGE, and try to bind the Black Queenside with 22.a5?! but after 22...Nc2 23.Qb3 Nxa1 24.Rxa1, White would be CLEARLY ADMITTING DEFEAT in the OPENING for WHITE, and Black has a pleasant choice of 24...b5 or 24...e6 with a small but definite advantage.
D4c) With 20.Kh1, the White King deftly steps out of harm's way from the dangerous Black Kngiht. This prudent course of action seems to be the real "Litmus Test" of Black's play. Here, the GM CHESS SCHOOL, offers the following interesting Queen maneuver which is designed to again exploit the several WEAK LIGHT SQUARE points (c2, b3, f1) in the White camp.
20...Qd5!? 21.Ra3 (Pinning our Knight with 21.Rd1?! will boomerang on White: 21...Qb3! - Attacking the White Queen on b6 and the White Rook on d1, thus forcing a favorable exchange of Queens - 22.Qxb3 Nxb3 23.Ra2 b5! and Black has a clear advantage. Using the PIN on the a-file to recover our sacrificed pawn, and leaving us with a dream endgame!) 21...Ra6 22.Qb4 Qc6!? (Eyeballing the White pawn on a4, while threatening the fork on c2. Note that the Knight fork on c2 would be premature as after 22...Nc2? 23.Qb3! Black has lost his initiative) 23.Qc3 (23.Qd2 Rxa4, favors Black) 23...Qxc3 24.bxc3 Nc6, and Black has FULL COMPENSATION for the equivalent of a pawn, for example, after 25.c4 Na5 26.Rh3 Nxc4 27.Rxh7 Bf6, Black would achieve a clear advantage.
I believe the harmony created by the moves 15...Ra8 and 16...Ne4, is enhanced with the move 18...f5, and reflects the harmony in cooperation between our good friends at GM Chess School and SmartChess Online. I have greatly enjoyed my recent rapport with GM Chess School.
PAHTZ MOVE 18 COMMENTARY
Nd4 to Garry's Qb3
I propose 18....Nd4. Now Garry will probably play 19.Qxf7. After this move Black has the interesting possibility 19....Nc2, exchanging his Knight against White's Rook on a1.
FELECAN MOVE 18 COMMENTARY
Nd4 to Kasparov's Qb3
My next try is 18...Nd4.
My previous thought was 18...Bd4 but White might have a slighty better
position after 19.Qxf7 Ne5 20.Qb3 Ng4 and now 21 Bd2; it's still a lot to be analyzed but I think Black has better chances with 18...Nd4.
After 18...Nd4 White is practically forced to move 19.Qxf7 since 19.Qxb6 is losing immediately after 19...Ra6! 20.f3 Qd5. After 19 Qxf7 Black has an option of either 19...Ne6 or 19...Nf5; 19...Rf8 is insufficient because of 20.Qxg7 Rxf2 21.Kxf2 (21 Rxf2?? means checkmate in three moves 21...Qe1+ 22 Rf1 Ne2+ followed by 23...Qxf1 checkmate!)21...Qf5+! 22 Bf4! followed by 23 Kg1). After 19...Ne6 the only move for White to save his position would be 20.Bg5 threatening e7 and forcing Black to play 20... Nxg5 21 Qxg7 Ne6! 22 Qh6! (the only move to keep the balance) 22...g5! with a good play for Black. After 19...Nf5 White's best chance is still 20 Bg5 but here black can reply 20...Rf8 chasing away the Queen, 21 Qb3 Nd4 22 Qxb6 Rf5 with a complicated game. If we are going to choose 18... Nd4 as The World's Move, 19...Ne6 after White's 19 Qf7 may well be Black's only alternative.
Good Luck in choosing the best available move, Florin.
BACROT MOVE 18 COMMENTARY
Nd4 to Kasparov's Qb3
We have no choice, the move 18...Nd4 is forced. Now the World Champion
will probably play 19.Qxf7 (not 19.Qxb6 Ra6) and we will have to
chose between 19...Bf6 and 19...Nc2.
DANNY KING MOVE 18 COMMENTARY
It's crunch time. Garry Kasparov has brought his Queen out attacking two
pawns simultaneously - on b6 and on f7. Does this mean that The World is in trouble?
In my commentary two days ago I spoke of how the move 16...Ne4 was
strategically desirable: with every exchange, Black comes closer to an
endgame where the two central pawns, supported by the King, really come
into their own. My only doubt about the move was whether it could be
justified tactically - whether there was a short-term hit that puts the
move in doubt. With this Queen move Garry is now putting the move to the
test.
I write my commentary without knowledge of the analysts' recommendations,
but I very much hope that there is not unanimous opinion on this move - I
would like you all out there to do a bit of work before you decide on your
vote! I can see TWO CONTINUATIONS which are both highly plausible for
Black. Let me give a short summary of the options:-
Over the last few days, analysis on the bulletin boards has concentrated on the move 18...Nd4, leading to obscure complications after White plunges in and captures the pawn on f7 with the Queen. No firm conclusions have been reached, but I would just say that this dynamic position is just the kind which would appeal to Garry.
Instead of this, 18...e6 has also been mentioned, keeping black's five
beautiful pawns from h7 to d6 intact. Of course White's Queen can take on
b6, 19 Qxb6, but then black gets tremendous piece activity with 19...Nd4.
In this position Black even threatens to win the Queen with 18...Ra6. White can crawl out, but Black can force an endgame, and, as I have mentioned before, this is where Black's positional strengths - the centre pawns supported by the King - come into play. I like this kind of position, it is rather typical of the Sicilian Defence that Black gets a majority of pawns in the centre.
You don't have to be too skilled at interpreting my code to realise which
move I would prefer to play! However, let me repeat what I said the other
day. In many positions in chess there is very often not one objectively
best move; it comes down to a matter of style and taste. So look at both
moves carefully, see what the Analysts are recommending, then decide for
yourself.
One thing I am convinced of: the World's position is fundamentally sound
and with correct play the World Champion should not win. See you at the
Zone theatre chat room at 2 pm PST (10 pm GMT) for a discussion of this
fascinating position.
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MOVE 19
Voting Results
E4-B4 35.09
C6-D4 33.85
E4-D4 13.08
H7-H6 3.27
G7-D4 1.99
KRUSH MOVE 19 COMMENTARY
Qb4 to Kasparov's Bg5
I recommend the World plays the move 19...Qb4 (Queen on e4 to b4)
SUMMARY
Every moment in a chess game, there are problems to solve, and pit-falls to be wary of. When I was analyzing the move 18...f5, it was clear that Black needed an answer to White's most aggressive course 19.Bg5 (threatening 20.Rfe1). I made the initial suggestion of centralizing with 19...Qd4, and if 20.Rfe1, then 20...Be5 (shielding the e-file), after which GM Chess School explored the position further on their web-site, establishing in many lines that Black was holding the position or would achieve sufficient counterplay. However, on further review of a piece of that analysis, I have come to the conclusion that I must instead propose a different move, i.e., 19...Qb4.
ANALYSIS SECTION
On further review of the analysis on the GM School site, and by "listening in" on teammates on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, I focussed my attention on one particular line that troubled me.
After 19...Qd4 20.Rfe1 Be5, there is 21.Rad1 (This is the problem with 19...Qd4 - White develops this ROOK with TEMPO) 21...Qxb2 22.Qf7 Rxa4 23.Qxh7, after which there are two important lines:
A) 23...Rg4 24.Qxg6 Nd4,
Here GM School gave only 25.Rxe5 Nf3+ 26.Kh1 Nxe5 27.Qxf5+ e6 28.Qf8 Rd4, "and Black has an extra pawn and chances to win." (Note that 24...Bxh2+? loses to 25.Kxh2 Qxf2 26.Rxe7+!)
Here they (as did I) apparently overlooked 25.Rxd4, and now after 25...Rxd4 (25...Qxd4 loses to 26.Qxf5+ e6 27.Qf7+ Kc6 28.Qe8+) 26.Qxf5+ Kc7, White has 27.Qh7, with a clear advantage.
In situations like this, you simply look to strengthen your play and your resolve, and I turned my attention to an alternative to 23...Rg4, i.e., 23...Ra2. The critical line after 23...Ra2 is 24.Rf1! and now there is the idea 24...Bd4!? I saw on the Bulletin Board ("WDThompsonJr").
After 23...Ra2 24.Rf1 Bd4, the critical lines are:
A) 25.Rde1? loses to 25...Bxf2+.
B) 25.Qxg6? allows 25...Bxf2+ 26.Kh1 Qe5, and Black is better.
C) 25.Bh4 Qe2 26.Qxg6 Qg4 27.Qf7 (27.Qxg4 fxg4, is fine for Black) 27...Re2 28.Bg3 Qe4, and I think Black is OK.
D) 25.Rd2! when after 25...Qb3 however, I did not come to a conclusion as to whether Black was OK after 26.Rxa2 Qxa2 27.Qxg6 Qc2 28.Be3.
While lurking and responding "anonymously" on the Bulletin Board, my attention was turned to the line 19...Qb4!? 20.Qf7 Be5 (20...Qxb2 seems too dangerous to me, and has the potential misfortune to possibly transpose into the 19...Qd4 line, after 21.Rfe1 Be5 22.Qf7 Rxa4).
This new line was being discussed by Jason Van Eaton ("Curious") and Brian McCarthy.
The critical lines are: 20.Qf7 Be5, and now:
A) 21.Rfe1? h6! is good for Black, as the Black queen on b4 is put to good use controlling the d2-square.
B) 21.Rae1 h6!? and now:
B1) 22.Bc1 Qh4 23.h3 (if 23.g3 or 23.f4, Black plays 23...Qf6) 23...Qf6, or;
B2) 22.Be3 f4 23.Bc1 g5, with a complicated position. C) 21.Rfd1 Qg4, seems fine for Black, hitting the Bishop on g5, and threatening Ra8xa4 in some instances.
D) 21.h3 (with this move White deals with the little problem on h2), and now 21...Rxa4 22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 Bxb2 24.Qxg6 Qe4, is unclear. Finally,
E) 21.f4 Bxb2 22.Rae1 Re8 23.Qxh7 Qd4+ 24.Kh1 Qg7, with an unclear position.
So then! 19...Qb4 is my recommendation.
I will be playing at the US Junior Championship for the next 12 days, and I am fortunate to have my trainer GM Giorgi Kacheishvili assisting me at the tournament, and helping me in my analysis of this game. Because of my change in time zone and my needs to prepare during the tournament, you will see me at later times on the Bulletin Board, and as ever, I look forward to your input, encouragement, and camaraderie.
PAHTZ MOVE 19 COMMENTARY
Nd4 to Kasparov's Bg5.
I hope the move Nd4 will be accepted now. Garry probably will answer with 20.Qf7 Ne2+ 21.Kh1 Bb2. White has many moves now.
(20.Qb6:Ra6!-+)
FELECAN MOVE 19 COMMENTARY
Nd4 to Kasparov's Bg5
My recommendation is 19...Nd4 again, and that is because we have to force White's Queen to move from such a strong position on b3. Meanwhile we have to develop our counterplay before the White Rooks can come into play. The only active move left for White would be 20. Qf7 threatening the Bishop on g7 and putting more pressure on the pawn on e7. Black can reply with 20...Ne2+ (check), opening the long diagonal for the black bishop on g7 and trying to use the Knight as a shield on the "e" file. White is forced to put his King in safety with 21. Kh1 and Black has enough time to capture one more pawn with 21...Bxb2. Here White can try 22.Rae1 - since 22. Rab1? fails to 22...Bd4 23. Qxh7 Rh8 24. Qxg6 Qg4! with the powerful blow 25...Nf4!. After 22. Rae1 Black can attack the rook with 22...Bc3! 23.f3 ( or 23.Bxe7) 23...Qe5 and now 24.Bxe7 looks as the most promising for White in this position: 24...Qxe7 25. Qxe7 Kxe7 26. Rxe2(getting his piece back) 26... Kd7. Here White can try either 27. Rc1 or 27. Rc2, in both cases with a comfortable play for Black:
27.Rc1 Bd4 28.Rc4 Bc5, or 27.Rc2 Bd4 28. Rc4 Bc5 29. Rd1 Kc6! 30. Rh4 d5(or 30...h5)31. Rxh7 Rxa4.
BACROT MOVE 19 COMMENTARY
Qd4 to Kasparov's Bg5
I have to say that I don't like our position much. I have analysed four lines of moves:
-19...Qg4 (a desperate attack) 20.Qxb6 Rc8 21.Be3! f4 22.f3 Qf5 23.Bf2 Black position is hopeless.
-19...Qb4 20.Qf7 Bxb2 21.Tab1 with a clear plus for White.
-19...Nd4 20.Qf7 Ne2+ 21.Kh1 Bxb2 22.Rab1 Bd4 23.f3 Qe5 24.Rfe1 Bc3 25.Bxe7 Qxe7 26.Qxe7 Kxe7 27.Rxe2+ Kd7 28.Rxb6 Rxa4 29.Rxb7+ and in this endgame White is clearly better off.
-19...Qd4 probably the best choice but now the World champion has two ways to continue his attack:
-20.Rae1!? Be5 21.Qf7 Qxb2 22.h3 or 22.h4 with good prospects for White.
-20.Rfe1 Be5 21.Qf7 Qxb2 (if 21...Qg4 22.f4 is strong ; 21...h6 22.Be3 Qh4 23.h3 Qf6 24.Qb3 big advantage for white) 22.Rad1 Rxa4 23.Qxh7 and now:
-23...Rg4 24.Qxg6 Nd4 25.Rxd4 follow by Qxf5+ with active play for White
-23...Ra2 24.Rf1 and black's defense is difficult.
I hope the other Analysts will find a defense for Black.
DANNY KING MOVE 19 COMMENTARY
Well folks, one cannot always be right! Yesterday, I wrote that there were
two main options for Black on move 18 - and, naturally, the World played a
third.
Actually, I confess that I had seen this move, 18...f5, but felt it was a
bit too risky. I was reluctant to even point out the possibility when Black had a sound option in 18...e6. Perhaps I ought to stop being so crafty! I should repeat again that I don't see the Analysts' recommendations before writing my commentary (a good thing) so there is no question of me being partial.
There is no doubting that 18...f5 is the most ambitious continuation: Black safeguards the wonderful pawn mass, and even begins to roll it forward a little; but in so doing creates a few chinks in his defensive armour. The big question is: can Black survive the coming onslaught?
It comes as no surprise to me that Garry decided not to take the pawn on b6 - it was more trouble than it was worth. After 19 Qxb6 Nd4 he would have been put on the defensive immediately; Black would threaten ...Ra6 winning the Queen, and although she could be extricated, an unpleasant defensive task awaited. This is certainly not Garry's style: he would rather give up material and attack than make a greedy grab and defend. Besides, objectively, I think Black simply had the better game.
Instead, the World Champion has chosen to play 19 Bg5, bringing out the
Bishop to the most aggressive square, pressurising the e7 pawn, and at the
same time 'connecting' White's rooks. That means they now protect each
other, making Rfe1 possible, attacking Black's Queen and increasing the
pressure on the e-file. Moreover, while 18...f5 prevents the pawn from
being taken, it does not stop the Queen from zipping down the diagonal to
f7 hitting some potentially tender spots.
That's the bad news; now the good news. Black still has a superb pawn
structure so, as before, if the Queens were to be exchanged then those
centre pawns supported by the king would give Black the advantage.
Therefore, Garry is going all out for the attack, though with Black's King
protected by two pawns, and the Knight on c6 providing solid support, it is not easy to see how he is going to break through. Moreover, if the World Champion wishes to use all his forces in the assault, he will probably have to give up his pawns on the queenside - then he really will be burning his boats.
The game is becoming more and more tense. Once again, consider the analysts options carefully. That's all for now - I'm going to spend the afternoon analysing the position. For those of you interested in my conclusions, join me in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm GMT).
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MOVE 20
Voting Results
g7-e5 75.52%
b4-b2 8.71%
g7-b2 6.99%
b4-d4 2.04%
g7-d4 1.27%
KRUSH MOVE 20 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
I recommend the World plays the move 20...Be5 (Bishop on g7 to e5)
SUMMARY
With the move 20.Qf7, the World Champion avoids an exchange of queens, and aims to bring PRESSURE to bear on the Black e7-point, following up at an appropriate moment by putting a ROOK on e1. There are two candidate moves for Black in the position, namely 20...Qxb2, and 20...Be5. After feedback from the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, and from analysis in the last FAQ prior to my deadline before making my move suggestion, I came to the conclusion that 20...Qxb2 is incorrect. Instead, I propose the move 20...Be5. On the e5-square, the Black bishop will clog the e-file as a holding action against the activity of a White Rook coming to e1. Another idea of 19...Qb4, and 20...Be5 is to create play against White's Bg5 with h7-h6 (and/or f5-f4) at opportune moments.
ANALYSIS SECTION
After 20...Qxb2 21.Rfe1
(In my opinion, alternatives for White are less exact, for example after 21.Rad1 Rf8, or 21.Rab1 Qd4 22.Rfd1 Rf8, the "White Queen ejection" plan gives Black a fine game. This plan for Black was developed on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board by Jason Van Eaton).
Black has two ideas:
A) 21...Qxa1 22.Rxa1 Bxa1, leads to an endgame where Black has a ROOK + KNIGHT + 2 PAWNS against White's QUEEN. It was necessary to study this plan with great interest, as the two BBS analysts who first proposed it have consistently demonstrated their strength in analyzing complex positions throughout the course of the game. In this endgame (first explored by "FastIM" and Otto ten Haar), Black must demonstrate his counterplay from advancing his PASSED b-PAWN is sufficient against the advance of the White PASSED h-PAWN. The idea shows great courage and imagination. However, I was unable to overcome a plan for White examined by GM Ron Henley - namely White blockades the Black b-PAWN with his QUEEN on b3, and proceeds to engineer a trade of bishops (the Black bishop is the natural long-range defender of the White QUEENING SQUARE on h8). After this, Black's only remaining minor piece (his short-range KNIGHT) will not be able to fight on both sides of the board. This conclusion was based on available analysis at the time of writing this report.
B) Instead 21...Be5 22.Rad1 Rxa4, transposes to heavily analyzed variations emanating from 19...Qd4. According to the latest FAQ (as I write this), problems still exist for Black in this variation.
Hence I maintained my attention on 20...Be5.
Black plans to create play against White's Bg5 with h7-h6 (and/or f5-f4). White can play 21.h3 (safeguarding his h2-point, and directed against the Black plan of h7-h6 - ejecting the White bishop -followed by Qb4-h4 (TEMPO on h2) and Qh4-f6, securing the g6-point, and challenging the White queen on f7, while at the same time placing more "juice" on the h8-a1 DIAGONAL.
After 21.h3, Black must consider the ramifications of the sharp endgame resulting from 21...Rxa4 22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 Bxb2 24.Qxg6 Qe4, or securing the kingside h7-point with 21...Rh8, intending to work against White's bishop with f5-f4, and h7-h6.
Irina
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
PAHTZ MOVE 20 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7.
Intuitively, I like this move the best as the bishop establishes itself on a
great central square, eyeing up the pawn on h2. In my opinion, the alternative move
20...Qxb2 is, at the moment, still too risky.
FELECAN MOVE 20 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
I think that this move is the strongest move avaiable for black
in the given position. Wrong it would be to reply 20...Bxb2 since white can
pin the bishop with 21.Rab1! Qg4 - because white threats 22.Bf6! - 22Bxe7!.
Interesting but I doubt that it is enough it is 20...Qxb2?! since after
21.Rab1 black doesn't have a good square for the queen and white activates
his rooks with an increasingly pressure on black's weakness on b6, b7 and
e7.
After 20...Be5 I analyzed two of the white's moves:
21.h3 - threatening to capture the pawn on h7 - and 21.f4 being the most
"kasparovian".
After 21.h3 black can play 21...Rxa4 - which leads to an unclear position:
22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 and 24.Qxg6 or 21...Rh8 , the safe alternative, most
widely recommended by computers: 22.Ra2 - removing the pin on b2 and
protecting b2 and a4 - 22...f4!? - my first choice move - and 22...h6!?. I
do not analyze this variation more in depth in here because I do not belive
that this move is going to be try by Kasparov in our game. Anyway, black
has at least an equal game in all of the lines. So, let's move on to the
next option for white:
21.f4 - the most agressive and probably the best move for white; other tries
like 21.Re1 or 21.Rc1 are met by 21..h6 and Qh4 - 21...Bxb2( because now we
can escape the pin with a check on the diagonal g1-a7)22.Rae1 Re8 23.Qxh7
Qd4+ 24. Kh1 Qg7 25.Qh3 Bc3 followed by 26...Bd4, Rh8, Rh7 and possibly a
doubling on the "h" file leave black with a nice game and some winning
chances.
We have to play 20...Be5 now, as being the only move which can keep the
balance, and see which move we are going to play against, analyze
(re-analyze!) it, find a plan and move accordingly.
BACROT MOVE 20 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
As White has a big advantage after 20...Bxb2 21.Rab1, I recommend to play
20...Be5 even if Black is worse off after, for example, 21.h3.
DANNY KING MOVE 20 COMMENTARY
Phew...it's a hot day in London, and it's a hot one on the chessboard too.
The World offered an exchange to relieve the pressure, but Garry was having
none of it, sliding the queen down the diagonal, deep into the heart of
Black's position. The bishop on g7 is now under attack; and the queen and
bishop are lined up against Black's pawn on e7 - though for the moment it
is guarded by the knight on c6.
The World's 19...Qb4 was by no means a forced move. Debate raged on the
bulletin boards and in my Zone theatre chat to determine the best way to
counter Garry's attack; and we had no less than three different moves
recommended by our analysts. The complexity of the position and the lack of
conclusion in our discussions was reflected in the voting percentages:
19...Qb4 topped the poll with just 35.09%; closely followed by 19...Nd4
with 33.85%; and 19...Qd4 scored a respectable 13.08%, which still leaves
almost 20% of the votes going to other moves.
Although White is taking the initiative, I feel that Black still ought to
be holding his own. However, the past couple of days have shown that even
18 hours can be insufficient to reveal the best continuation, even with the
help of computers.
Incidentally, I have found that my analysis has been far more productive
WITHOUT the help of a chess-playing computer: in this kind of strategically
unbalanced position their assessments are often way off the mark; though
they do come into their own when checking tactics or sacrifices. My tip is
this: analyse the position on your own to start with, then, if necessary,
go back and check the variations using one of those infernal cans of
silicon.
Let's get down to specifics. The World Champion is attacking the bishop on
g7 with the queen, so it must move, or be protected. At first glance there
are three plausible moves: 20...Bxb2; 20...Qxb2; and 20...Be5.
Straightaway we should dismiss 20...Bxb2. This just exacerbates Black's
problems. White would reply with 21 Rab1, PINNING the bishop to the queen.
The bishop would be unable to move as the rook would then take the queen,
so Black would have to waste more time untangling, with 21...Qa3 for
instance, to prevent White snaring the bishop, and then quite simply 22
Qxh7 followed by 23 Qxg6. My advice: DON'T GO THERE.
20...Qxb2, protecting the bishop on g7 and swiping a pawn in the process,
is much better, though it is still an open question whether this is too
greedy: White's rooks have wonderful open files.
The alternative is 20...Be5, blocking the e-file. This has received a lot
of attention on the bulletin boards. The point is that 21 Qxh7 (not clever)
can be met by 21...Rh8 followed by 22...Bxh2+ and Black wins.
Instead of 21 Qxh7 White has a number of alternative ways to try to break
Black's position. So far, nothing absolutely concrete has been found for
White, though in many cases I think it looks quite terrifying for the
World.
So is to be 20...Qxb2 or 20...Be5? This is the crunch decision. I'll let
you know what I think the best move is in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm
PST (10GMT) today, then you'll have to make up your own mind.
Good luck!
Danny King
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MOVE 21
KRUSH MOVE 21 COMMENTARY
Ra4 to Kasparov's h3
I recommend the World plays the move 21...Rxa4 (Rook on a8 captures pawn on a4)
SUMMARY
The World Champion has played the prophylactic 21.h3 (safeguarding his h2-point, and directed against our plan of h7-h6 - ejecting the White bishop - followed by Qb4-h4 (TEMPO on h2) and Qh4-f6, securing the g6-point). At this moment in the game I consider there to be three CANDIDATE MOVES worth consideration (namely 21...Rh8, 21...f4, and 21...Rxa4). In my Analysis Section, I will indicate my reasons for recommending 21...Rxa4 to my teammates.
ANALYSIS SECTION
In my opinion, Black has a choice of three moves after Kasparov's 21.h3.
A) THE "PASSIVE" 21...Rh8
This was a continuation that I was working on with a number of players (including NM Brian McCarthy) while I was 'lurking' on the BBS. I have to say I really don't like the idea of passive play initiated with 21...Rh8.
With 21...Rh8, Black defends his threatened h-pawn (tying down material worth five points to cater to a unit worth only 1 point!). After White's strongest continuation 22.Rad1, there follows 22...Qxb2 23.Rfe1,
I view this position as a "Kasparov-Kill" position. White has centralized his ROOKS to bring maximum pressure to bear on the d- and e-files. Indeed it is not easy to find a logical continuation for Black in this position.
After 23...Qc3 24.f4 Bd4+ 25.Kh1, White's INITIATIVE reaches dangerous proportions, for example:
A1) 25...Bf6 26.Qe6+ Kc7 27.Rxd6! (27.Rc1 also looks good) 27...Bxg5 28.Rd7+ Kb8 29.fxg5, and White has a clear advantage, or;
A2) 25...Be3 26.Re2, and again White is clearly better, as he plans to DOUBLE ROOKS on the e-file.
In my opinion 21...Rh8?! is dubious, and is asking for exactly the kind of trouble the World Champion knows how to provide.
B) THE "STRANGE" 21...f4
Why would I consider this move "strange"? After all, one of the ideas behind 20...Be5 is to embarrass the White Bishop on g5 with h7-h6, and/or f5-f4 at an opportune moment. In the critical line, Black temporarily sacrifices a pawn to reach a tenable ending, with reasonable drawing chances with precise play.
After 21.h3 f4!? 22.Qxh7 Qf5 (after 23...Bxb2 24.Rfe1 Qf5 25.Qxf5 gxf5 26.Rab1 Bd4 27.Bxf4 Rxa4, Black may be able to hold the ending, but I believe it is Black who must prove the draw), 24.Qxf5+ gxf5, White has two ways to defend his b-pawn:
B1) 25.Ra2 Nd4 26.h4 (if 26.f3 - with the idea of retrieving the Bishop with Bg5-h4-f2 - then 26...Rh8 27.Rd1 Ne6, when White is forced to play 28.h4 anyway. After 28...Bd4+ 29.Kf1 Bc5 30.b3 Nxg5 31.hxg5 Rg8 32.Rb2 Rxg5 33.b4 Be3 34.Rc2, White holds a tiny edge) 26...Ne6 27.Rc1 (The continuations 27.b4 Nxg5 28.hxg5 Rg8 29.Rc1 Rxg5, and 27.Rd1 Nxg5 28.hxg5 Rg8 29.b4 Rxg5, also leave White with a little endgame edge, while 27.b3 Nxg5 28.hxg5 Rg8 29.Rc1 Rxg5 transposes) 27...Nxg5 28.hxg5 Rg8 29.b3 Rxg5 30.f3 Bd4+ 31.Kf1 e5, with perhaps a small White edge.
B2) 25.Rfb1 Nd4, and now:
B2a) 26.f3 (again the idea Bg5-h4-f2) 26...Nc2 27.Ra2 Nb4 28.Ra3 Nc2 29.Rb3 (29.Ra2 Nb4 30.Ra3 Nc2 would be a draw by repetition) 29...Rxa4 30.Kf1 (not 30.Rxb6?? Bd4+, Black wins) 30...Ne3+ 31.Ke2 Ra6 32.g4 d5 33.Rd3 Ke6, and the position is a little unclear.
B2b) 26.h4 (More logical) 26...Ne6 27.Ra3 Rg8 28.Rb3 (28.Rd3 Nxg5 29.hxg5 Rxg5, is equal according to Pete Rihaczek) 28...Nxg5 29.hxg5 Bd4 30.Rd1 e5, when Black must take into account, the transition to a ROOK ENDING after 31.Rxd4!? exd4 32.Rxb6 Kc7 33.Rb4 f3 34.gxf3 Rxg5+ 35.Kf1 d3, when Black will lose his d-pawn, but the doubled f-pawns could preclude any serious winning chances for White.The move 21...f4!? is interesting, but does not pose White any major problems to solve. In my opinion it is Black who must play with technical precision to hold the worse side of a draw, so I don't recommend this line of play for Black.
THE "ACTIVE" 21...Rxa4 - MY RECOMMENDATION TO MY TEAMMATES
C1) "THE PAWN RACE ENDGAME"
I have been studying this continuation for quite a while - nearly a week and, and the BBS has generated interesting dialog concerning this move and its goals (including postings by Ross Amman, GMC_Witali, and others). Here are my findings with 21...Rxa4, with the conclusions that prompted me to recommend this move to my teammates.
Any assessment of the merits of 21...Rxa4 must begin with an examination of the endgame arising from the sequence 22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 Bxb2 24.Qxg6 Qe4. What has happened? The two sides have voluntarily exchanged pawns (White's a- and b-pawns for Black's g- and h-pawns). The complexion of the game has changed dramatically, as the battle has changed from one of White pressuring Black's king through the center to one which is now a battle of PASSED PAWNS (White's h-pawn versus Black's b-pawn). Both sides will strive to increase the value of their passed pawns by safely advancing them to PROMOTION on the eighth rank, while also playing to control and impede the passed pawn of the enemy. In most critical lines of this endgame, I believe Black obtains sufficient play by combining his own threats to promote a pawn with COUNTERPLAY directed at the White King. I have focussed my attention on three candidate moves for White (25.Qf7, 25.h4, and 25.Qg8), during my studies with my trainers GMs Giorgi Kacheishvili and Ron Henley. The most critical lines involve White trying to force home his h-pawn, with Black countering with the advance of his b-pawn:
C1a) 25.Qf7 (GM Alvarez) 25...d5 26.h4 Bd4, we transpose to Variation C1b2 (25.h4 Bd4 26.Qf7 d5).
C1b) 25.h4 Bd4! and now:
C1b1) 26.h5 Ne5 27.Qh7 (27.Qg7? loses immediately to 27...Ng4) 27...Ng4 (threatening 28...Nxf2 and 28...Qe5) 28.Bh4 (instead 28.Bxe7 Qxe7 29.Qxf5+ Qe6, is good for Black) 28...Qe5 29.Rd1 Bc5! and Black has a strong attack. Note here that the natural impulse is to play 29...Qh2+, but after 30.Kf1 Qxh4 31.Qxf5+ e6 32.Qf7+ Kc6 33.Rxd4 Nh2+ 34.Kg1 Qxd4 35.Kxh2, the QUEEN ENDING is unclear.
C1b2) 26.Qf7 d5 (preventing White from playing Qf7-b3 to stuff Black's b-pawn), and now:
C1b2a) The White simplification plan of Rf1-d1, and Bg5-e3 doesn't work, for example: 27.Rd1 b5 28.Be3 b4 (better than the lackluster 28...Bxe3) 29.Bxd4 Nxd4 30.f3 Qe3+ 31.Kh1 Kd6!? 32.Qg8 b3 33.Qd8+ Kc6 34.Qc8+ Kb6, and I prefer Black's chances.C1b2b) After 27.h5 b5, the race begins: 28.h6 b4 29.h7 b3, and now:
C1b2b1) Bad is 30.Qh5? b2 31.Qd1 f4! 32.Qb1 Bxf2+! 33.Kh1 Qxb1 34.Rxb1 Bd4 35.Bxf4 Na5 36.Be3 Bh8, and Black is winning because of the threat of 37...Nc4, followed by Nc4-a3, or Nc4-d2 as circumstances allow. For example after 37.Bc5 Nc4 38.Bb4 to prevent Nc4-a3 or Nc4-d2, the ACTIVE, CENTRALIZED Black King plays a winning role with 38...Kc6, threatening 39...Kb5 dislodging the overworked White Bishop from its defensive post.
C1b2b2) 30.Be3 Be5 31.Rd1 (Instead 31.Bh6 b2 32.Bg7 b1=Q, is winning for Black, for example 33.h8=Q Qxf1+! 34.Kxf1 Qb1+ 35.Ke2 Nd4+ 36.Ke3 Qc1+ 37.Kd3 Qc2+ 38.Ke3 Qe2 mate) 31...Kd6 32.Qg6+ Kc7 33.g4 Qf3 34.Rf1 Qh3 35.Qh5 Bh2+ 36.Kh1 Qxf1+ 37.Kxh2 b2 38.Qxf5 (38.h8=Q b1=Q, wins for Black) 38...b1=Q 39.Qxb1 Qxb1 40.h8=Q Qe4, and Black has a clear advantage in the endgame (EXTRA PAWN).
C1c) 25.Qg8 (as suggested by GM Chess School, is logical, as from g8, to the White queen keeps contact with the White h-pawn's QUEENING SQUARE on h8, threatens to return to the queenside with Qg8-b3 to impede the advance of Black's b-pawn, and can also initiate counterplay against Black's weak b7-pawn). Therefore, Black continues with 25...d5 keep the White Queen from returning to b3. GM Chess School now gives the continuation 26.Rd1 Bd4 27.Qa8 Kc7 28.Qe8 b5, as unclear, but it seems White must be careful, for example, after 29.h4 b4 30.h5 b3, White is in some trouble.
There is an earlier word that must be mentioned about this endgame. "GMC_Witali" noted that after 22.Rxa4 Qxa4, White can play 23.b3!? The idea of this move is to prevent Black's Queen from reaching the e4-square to defend the f5-pawn. However, he demonstrated that after 23...Qb4 24.Qxh7 Qxb3 25.Qxg6 Nd4, Black had good counterplay, and very good chances.
From this examination, I concluded that the endgame after 21...Rxa4 22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 Bxb2 24.Qxg6 Qe4 offers Black good counterchances and prospects for good play. But this not the end of the story. We must not forget that 22.Rxa4 is by no means forced for White! White can play (after 21...Rxa4), the following moves declining the exchange of Rooks: 22.Rad1, 22.Rae1, and 22.Rac1.
C2) WHITE DECLINES THE ROOK EXCHANGE ("THE ROOK ON a1 SIDESTEP")
C2a) The least effective way of declining an exchange of Rooks is 22.Rab1. After 22...Qc4! 23.Qxh7 Qe6 24.Rfe1 f4, Black has an excellent position.C2b) Another ineffective way of declining the exchange of Rooks is 22.Rad1, when Black has 22...Qc4! 23.Qxh7 Qe6 24.Rfe1 (24.f4 Bxb2 25.Rfe1 Re4, is good for Black) 24...Re4 (Black can also play 24...f4) 25.Rxe4 (25.f4?? loses to 25...Bd4+) 25...fxe4, and Black is better. C2c) 22.Rae1 Qc4! (This is the best way to secure the vital g6-point, while maintaining central harmony amongst the Black forces. It would be wrong to play 22...Qxb2, when after 23.Qxh7, Black's pieces become disjointed. We have a responsibility to maintain the cohesion of our well-coordinated pieces!) 23.Qxh7 Qe6, and Black has a nice game, for example: 24.f4 Bd4+ 25.Kh1 Be3! 26.Rf3 Re4.
C2d) After 22.Rac1, Black can play 22...Bxb2 (Black can also consider 22...f4!? and perhaps the tempting 22...Bf4 to exchange material), and now:
C2d1) 23.Rxc6 bxc6 (Black can consider 23...Kxc6!? as a winning attempt) 24.Qxe7+ Kc8 25.Qe8+ Kb7 26.Qd7+ Ka6 27.Qxc6 Qe4 28.Qxd6 Rc4 29.Be3 Qc6, and although Black has an extra pawn, the chances are about equal.C2d2) 23.Rce1 Bc3 24.Rxe7+ Nxe7 25.Qxe7+ Kc6 26.Qe8+ Kc5 27.Qc8+ Kb5 28.Qe8+ Kc4 29.Qe6+ Kb5 30.Qe8+ Kc4, with a draw.
C2d3) 23.Rb1 Qd4 24.Qxh7 Qg7 25.Qxg7 Bxg7 26.Rxb6 Nd8! and the game is equal.D) OTHER WHITE CANDIDATE MOVES AFTER 21...Rxa4D1) White can play 22.f4. This is dealt with swiftly and surely with 22...Rxa1 23.Rxa1 Qxb2, and Black is winning.D2) Finally, there is the deflection motif 22.Bd2!? After 22...Qc4! 23.Qxh7 Rxa1 24.Rxa1 Qd3 25.Bc3 Bxc3 26.bxc3 Qxc3 27.Ra8, Black has at least a draw with 27...Qc1+ 28.Kh2 Qf4+, etc.
So then! 21...Rxa4 is my recommendation to my teammates. I believe that this active move represents the best interpretation of Black's position. Let's continue taking the fight to the World Champion!
Irina
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
PAHTZ MOVE 21 COMMENTARY
Ra4 to Kasparov's h3
This leads to an unclear position, but I think it is forced. We must go our
way. Show courage, world. Now White can follow 22. Ra4: Qa4: 23. Qh7: Bb2: 24.
Qg6: Qe4.
FELECAN MOVE 21 COMMENTARY
Rh8 to Kasparov's h3.
I think that 21...Rxa4 might offer some
more for Black but I don't want to give the "h" and "g" pawns and let White
have a passed pawn. Even with that it looks very attractive for Black to
play 21...Rxa4 22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 Qe4 24. Qxg6 Bd4 followed by Ne5 , f5-f4
with very good play for black. Somewhat better for White might be 22.Rad1
followed by 23.Qxh7 and 24.Rfe1 trying to put the black monarch in danger.
Anyway, after 21..Rh8 the most probable move for white is 22.Rad1 (how could
anybody suggest 22. Ra2? or 22. Rfd1?) and here 22..f4 (h6 creates a
weakness on g6) with a complicated play. I will give more information as
fast as I can but not before being verified. Sice we do not know how
21...Rxa4 ends its better for us to make a safe move as 21...Rh8. keep the
position complicated and look for better opportunities.
BACROT MOVE 21 COMMENTARY
Rxa4 to Kasparov's h3
I think that 21...Rxa4 is the only reasonable way to get counter-play.
Now the World Champion may play:
-22.Rxa4 Qxa4 23.Qxh7 (23.b3 Qb4 24.Qxh7 Qxb3 25.Qxg6 Qd3 26.Re1 b5 with an unclear game) Bxb2 24.Qxg6 Qe4 with chances for both sides.
-22.Rae1 Qc4 (22...Qxb2 23.Qxh7 Ra2 24.Qg6 advantage for White) 23.Qxh7 Qe6 24.f4 Bd4+ 25.Kh1 Be3 with a playable position.
DANNY KING MOVE 21 COMMENTARY
COMMENTARY after Garry Kasparov's 21st move
You will have to forgive an Englishman for talking about the weather (our
national pastime) but this position reminds me of a heat-wave where the
temperature builds until the tension is unbearable - then the heavens open,
there's thunder and lightning, the rain pours, and we all cool down again.
At the moment, in our game, we have had a few skirmishes, but over the past
few moves there have been some quieter options chosen. But these moves have
not dulled the position; on the contrary, they have only served to
intensify the pressure. I feel that in a few moves time the storm is going
to break.
Garry's last move, 21 h3, illustrates this perfectly. You might well be
asking what that weedy pawn push has to do with attacking. Quite a lot. One
of the ideas is that White's queen now threatens to hack off the pawn on
h7, then the pawn on g6, followed by the pawn on f5...enough already!
The reason this wasn't possible on the last turn (21 Qxh7) was that Black
had a deadly counter-attack with 21...Rh8 22 Qxg6 Bxh2+ - and wins! Now we
can see the point of 21 h3: it prevents the Bishop capturing on h2, so Qxh7
is now a serious threat.
The question is, how does the World best meet this threat? It is impossible
to move the h-pawn away as the g6 pawn could then be taken by the queen, so
that leaves two possibilities: Black can counter-attack (capture something
on the other side of the board); or defend the h-pawn with 21...Rh8.
Let's take a look at the counter-attacking possibilities first. Black can
capture either pawn on the Queenside, but, as on the last turn, he should
be wary of doing so. For instance 21...Bxb2 is a mistake as the PIN with 22
Rab1 is awkward; alternatively 21...Qxb2 can be met by 22 Qxh7, when I
don't see that Black has sufficient counterplay to off-set the demolition
of his Kingside.
That leaves 21...Rxa4. Now 'the storm breaks': there would follow: 22 Rxa4
Qxa4 23 Qxh7 Bxb2 24 Qxg6. A double-edged position has arisen where White
has a dangerous passed h-pawn, but Black has counterplay on the queenside
with his own passed b-pawn. (Incidentally a 'PASSED PAWN' is one which has
no opposition pawns impeding its path through to the Queening square on the
eighth rank).
Instead of the above, Black may play more solidly with 21...Rh8, simply
protecting the pawn on h7. Then the tension increases as White looks for
another way to try to break into Black's position. Over the past couple of
days I have been examining 22 Rac1; and 22 Rfc1 was a very interesting
suggestion made by one of the participants in my last Zone theatre chat. In
both cases White is looking to eliminate the Knight on c6 with Rxc6,
removing the defender of the pawn on e7, and so breaking through to the
king. And there are other tries too, equally dangerous.
What you have to decide is this: do you think that Black's King is secure
enough to withstand an assault by Garry's pieces after 21...Rh8; or should
you give up the Kingside pawns in hope of counterplay on the other side of
the board? It's a tough choice. In both cases one has to look deeply into
both possibilities before coming to a decision.
I'll let you know what conclusions I come to tonight in the Zone theatre
chat room at 2pm PST (10pm GMT). The storm is about to break - let's try
not to get hit by lightning.
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MOVE 22
Voting Results
KRUSH MOVE 22 COMMENTARY
Qxa4 to Kasparov's Rxa4.
I recommend the World plays the move 22...Qxa4 (Queen on b4 captures
Rook on a4) FORCED move.
PAHTZ MOVE 22 COMMENTARY
Qxa4 to Kasparov's Rxa4
22.... Qxa4 to Kasparov's Rxa4.
What else? We must take the White Rook.
FELECAN MOVE 22 COMMENTARY
Qxa4 to Kasparov's Rxa4
22...Qxa4 is the forced alternative for black since we have to get our Rook
back. Interesting if Black goes for Qc2 or Qe4 later in the game. If I
find something wrong with Qe4, I'll have to switch back to Qc2. Anyway, it
looks like Black has enough compensation for the exchange with Bxb2 and Bd4,
putting some pressure on white's king and preparing the "b" pawn's march but
as I said before it is risky to awake Garry from his "Deep Blue" sleep with
21...Rxa4. Good Luck!
BACROT MOVE 22 COMMENTARY
Qxa4 to Kasparov's Rxa4
The World Champion decided to change Rooks, so now our move 21...Qxa4 is forced.
DANNY KING MOVE 22 COMMENTARY
The more I look at this game, the more I realise how complex it is. Snap
judgements just won't do. I have spent hours trying to come to a conclusion
on the 'correct' line of play for both sides, and I keep changing my mind
as to what that is!
The World has chosen to grab one of the pawns on the Queenside; Garry has
exchanged Rooks, and will probably hoover some pawns on the other side of
the board with his Queen. The tension has broken with these exchanges, and
we are most likely about to run down a forced line over the next few moves.
Then it will be time to think again.
From Black's viewpoint, one thing I do find encouraging is that with every
exchange his king position becomes safer. The World's King is less likely
to fall prey to an attack in the middle of the board with fewer pieces on
the board.
World, you only have one serious option here: work it out for yourself and,
if in doubt, read the analysts' recommendations!
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MOVE 23
Voting Results
e5-b2 89.31%
a4-e4 1.66%
a4-c4 1.16%
f5-f4 0.93%
a4-b5 0.90%
KRUSH MOVE 23 COMMENTARY
Bxb2 to Kasparov's Qxh7
I recommend the World plays the move 23...Bxb2 (Bishop on e5 captures
pawn on b2)
For all intents and purposes, Black's move is essentially forced.
Finesse attempts to avoid or delay Be5xb2 are bad, for example:
23...Qc4? when White gladly plays 24.Qxg6 Bh2+ 25.Kxh2 Qxf1 26.Qxf5+,
and the resulting endgame is winning for White - as here the White
h-pawn is far too dangerous. Also insufficient is 23...Qe4? - an attempt
to quickly activate the Black Knight - which allows 24.Qxg6 Nd4 25.Qf7
Ne2+ 26.Kh1 Bxb2 27.Bxe7 forcing a winning liquidation for White after
27...Qxe7 28.Qxe7+ Kxe7 29.Re1.
After 23.Qxh7 Bxb2, White will likely continue 24.Qxg6. At that time we
must studiously examine all of our options.
PAHTZ MOVE 23 COMMENTARY
Bxb2 to Kasparov's Qxh7
We have reached an intresting and unclear position. Now Black has various
possibilities. One is to centralize the Queen with 23.... Qe4. But we can do it
one move later too. So I will propose 23....Bxb2. Now Garry will take the g-pawn
with his queen (24. Qxg6) and than we can save our f-pawn with 24...Qe4. And our
b-pawn is ready to march!
FELECAN MOVE 23 COMMENTARY
Bxb2 to Kasparov's Qxh7
Because we have to make the "b" pawn a passed pawn. And we
also have to fight back for the "h" pawns. This is what I recommend:
23...Bxb2 24.Qxg6-Qe4 and then Black is fine.
BACROT MOVE 23 COMMENTARY
Bxb2 to Kasparov's Qxh7
We have to take the pawn 23...Bxb2. Now White's obvious move is
24.Qxg6 (24.Re1 Qb4!) Qe4 when we have some counter-chances.
DANNY KING MOVE 23 COMMENTARY
Well, folks, sometimes one's plans on the chess board don't run as smartly as one would like. Bit like in life really. I'm waiting for the ferry to arrive,
and I don't have enough change for the phone, so my comments today are going to be short and sweet. Garry's beginning the demolition of The World's Kingside
pawns, but don't fear. The World is eliminating HIS pawns on the other side of the board, so the position remains finely balanced.
We'll have a more detailed discussion when I reach Dublin.
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MOVE 24
Voting Results
a4-e4 88.76%
c6-d4 2.41%
a4-c2 1.63%
c6-e5 1.56%
f5-f4 0.96%
KRUSH MOVE 24 COMMENTARY
Qe4 to Kasparov's Qxg6
I recommend the World plays the move 24...Qe4 (Queen on a4 to e4)
I believe this is Black's most logical move - centralizing the Queen,
and defending the f5-pawn. White's strategy includes advancing the
passed h-pawn combined with pressure against the Black King (e7- and b7-
points). Black's counterplay includes the advance of the passed b-pawn
(and d-pawn) combined with pressure against White's King (f2-point). The
position after 24...Qe4 has been subjected to much analysis on the World
Team Strategy Bulletin Board with unclear assessments prevailing.
PAHTZ MOVE 24 COMMENTARY
Qe4 to Kasparov's Qxg6
Now we have reached a very unclear position. We must save our pawn f5. So I will
propose Qe4. The Queen stands in the center and controls the square b1, the
finish line of our b-pawn. I think that in the coming moves we will see a very hot
race between the Black b-pawn and the White h-pawn.
FELECAN MOVE 24 COMMENTARY
Qe4 to Kasparov's Qxg6
The move that I recommend is 24...Qe4 because we protect the f5 pawn, we
centralize the queen and our Q + B + N are cooperating very well. Now we
have to analyze the three most probable moves for white: 25.h4, 25.Qf7 and
25.Qg8. First, we have to clear something; regardless of how Black is
playing, the White pawn will get to h7, but it depends on us whether he is going to
Queen on h8 or not. Second, we have to make sure that our "b" pawn is
strong enough to keep the balance. If White plays 25.h4, 25.Qf7 or 25.Qg8
Black can respond with 25...Bd4 because we move the Bishop to a protected
square, we are still controlling the long diagonal a1-h8, and we exercise more
pressure on White's King. Meanwhile we can search for new moves and ideas
or we can perfect the exising ones. We have to keep in mind that a
good setup for Black can be achieved via Bc3, b6-b5 and b5-b4 ; we have good
squares for the Bishop (d4, c3 etc.) and the Queen ( from e4 it can jump
anywhere on the board) but we have to find a place for our Knight (e5
maybe). With the game running toward its end, I'm trying to give to you
directions move by move, with an accent on ideas.
BACROT MOVE 24 COMMENTARY
Qe4 to Kasparov's Qxg6
This is a forced move.
DANNY KING MOVE 24 COMMENTARY
A change of location for me. Greetings from Ireland!
The last two moves were very much as predicted. The World swiped the last
of Garry's pawns on the Queenside (more chess jargon - that is, the side of
the board where the Queen stands at the BEGINNING of the game); and Garry
has responded in kind by taking another pawn on Black's Kingside.
The first question to ask yourself when it is your move at the chessboard
is, 'DOES MY OPPONENT'S LAST MOVE THREATEN ANYTHING?' The answer here is
clear: White's Queen is threatening to take another pawn, the one on f5.
Serious enough. Then the next task is how to prevent that threat.
First, what happens if the pawn is moved forward with 24...f4...? No good.
White plays 25 Qf5+, Black gets out of check, then White captures the pawn
with 26 Qxf4.
Okay, if the pawn can't move out of trouble, that means it must be defended
somehow. Let's take a look at 24...e6. That won't work as it exposes the
King. White's Queen gets in there right away with 25 Qf7+, the King moves
and the pawn on e6 drops off. Disaster.
What about defending the pawn with 24...Nd4 instead? Looks better, but in
fact White has the crafty riposte 25 Re1, threatening the pawn on e7 with
the Rook and Bishop, and Black is in desperate trouble. For instance,
25...e5 loses swiftly to 26 Qf7+ Kc8 27 Qf8+ Kc7 28 Qd8+ Kc6 29 Qe8+ - and
Black's Queen on a4 is lost.
The only piece we haven't used to defend the pawn is Black's Queen ; now
that looks a bit easier. There are several squares the Queen could find to
defend the pawn on f5, some better than others. It is best to try to think
what White would like to do next before deciding on where exactly to play
the Queen.
Apart from capturing the pawn on f5 (that's the obvious idea) Garry would
also like to play his Rook to e1 to threaten Qe6+ and an attack on the pawn
on e7.
So, the problem is this: can you find a Queen move which meets both White's
threats, Qxf5 AND Re1? There are actually two possibilities, though one is
much stronger than the other.
Before looking at the analysts' recommendations, try to solve the conundrum
yourself. Good luck!
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MOVE 25
Voting Results
b2-d4 69.99%
d6-d5 9.05%
c6-d4 3.97%
b6-b5 3.89%
b2-e5 3.37%
KRUSH MOVE 25 COMMENTARY
Bd4 to Kasparov's Qf7
SUMMARY
I recommend the World plays the move 25...Bd4 (Bishop on b2 to d4)
The World Champion played 25.Qf7 - maintaining his pressure on our e7- and f5-points, while creating the option of bringing his queen to the QUEENSIDE with Qf7-b3 in order to impede the advance of Black's PASSED b-pawn. From f7, the White Queen assists in the advance of White's PASSED h-pawn. I am recommending that Black proceeds with the CENTRALIZING move 25...Bd4. From d4 (a square firmly under Black's control since the opening battle) the Black bishop radiates its influence in several important directions: it pressures White's sensitive f2-point; it prepares for the advance of Black's b-pawn (crucial to our counterplay) to b2; the MANEUVER Bd6-c5 becomes a possibility (shielding the c-file and lending additional defensive support to the Black King); it maintains coverage of the h8-square (the queening square of White's h-pawn).
ANALYSIS SECTION
After 25.Qf7 Bd4, we can examine two main options for White, which illustrate the basic ideas in the position:
A) White's Queen returns to the queenside, for example 26.Qb3 Bc5 (also possible is 26...Kc7 27.h4 Bc5 as given by GM School) 27.Be3 Kc7 And now;
A1) 28.Re1 allows 28...f4 29.Bd2 (29.Qxb6+? loses to 29...Kc8) 29...Qd4 30.Re2 d5, intending e7-e5, and Black has a nice position;
A2) 28.Rc1 f4 29.Bxc5 (29.Rc4 Qe6 30.Bxc5 bxc5, and Black is at least equal) 29...bxc5 30.Rb1 Nb4, with an unclear position;
A3) 28.Qb1 Qe5 29.Re1 (as given by GM Danny King), and now 29...Qf6 30.Qb3 (30.Bxc5?! bxc5, favors Black) 30...f4, and Black is fine;
A4) 28.Rb1 Na5 29.Qb5 Nc4 30.Bxc5 (30.Bc1 d5, is good for Black) 30...bxc5 31.Rc1 Nb6, is unclear. White can repeat the position with 32.Rb1 Nc4.
B) White advances his passed pawn, for example: 26.h4 b5, and now;
B1) 27.Qb3 b4 28.h5 (28.Rb1 e6!? looks nice for Black) 28...Qg4, and Black is OK.
B2) 27.h5 b4 28.h6 Qe6 29.Qxe6+ (or 29.Qh5 b3 30.Be3 Bh8 31.Re1 b2 32.Qd1 Qc4 as given by Spiriev. I believe this favors Black, for example: 33.Qh5 Qc2) 29...Kxe6 (with an endgame I have studied with my trainers GM Henley and GM Kacheishvili) 30.Bd2 (or 30.Rb1 Bc3, with an unclear endgame, in which I think Black's chances are fine) 30...Kf7 31.Rb1 Bc3 32.Be3 (but not 32.Bxc3? bxc3 33.Rc1 Nd4 34.Kf1 c2 35.Ke1 b5, and Black is winning) 32...d5, when the endgame is unclear, but again I feel Black is doing fine.
PAHTZ MOVE 25 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's Qf7
Black has various possible plans in this difficult position. One is Nd4 to centralize the Knight. But it seems the Knight is better on c6
to protect the Black King and control the square e7 and the other squares in the centre (e5, d4, b4).
I will propose the move d6-d5. With this, we will close the diagonal g8-a2 and the White Queen doesn't return to b3 or a2. Now this can follow: 25. Be3 d4 26. Rd1 Kc7 and Black is better off. Better for White is 25. Rd1 and now Bd4 or Kd6 and if now Qg6+ the King will go to c7. The King
and the Knight are now a perfect pair.
FELECAN MOVE 25 COMMENTARY
Bd4 to Kasparov's Qf7
I think that the best move in the given position is 25...Bd4 because we
clear the way for the "b" pawn and we put more pressure on White's King.
The Knight's move on d4 looks to me like an anxious move pretending to be
active and dangerous. Against 25...Bd4 White has two options: 1) to have
complete faith in his "h" pawn and therefore advance it, or 2) to try to stop
us from advancing our passed pawn while slowly improving his position.
After 26.h4 Black can play 26...b5 27.h5 Qg4 28 Be3 and now 28...Ne5 doesn't
look sufficient for Black because of 29.Qd5 Bxe3 30. Qxb7+ Ke6 31.Qc8+, but
we still have other options as 28...Qe4!? or even 28...Bf6 with an intricate
line. Another interesting option for Black might be 27...Qe6 to exchange
Queens, so the danger to our King is decreased and we can transfer our King
to guard White's passed pawn while we keep trying to push our passed pawns.
Anyway, there are a lot of moves to be considerated but I think that all
should start with 25...Bd4 otherwise we can find Black's position
defenseless.
BACROT MOVE 25 COMMENTARY
Bd4 to Kasparov's Qf7
The position is very difficult because White is ready to push his h pawn. I recommend that The World put its Bishop at the center of the board by moving
Bd4.
DANNY KING MOVE 25 COMMENTARY
The World's last move, 24...Qe4, was undoubtedly the best. The pawn on f5
was threatened, so the Queen moved over to protect it; and at the same time
she returned to the centre of the board preventing, for instance, White's
rook from occupying the e1 square. Such CENTRALISATION is classic chess
strategy. From the centre of the board the Queen controls more squares than
it would at the side, so has a greater influence on the game.
In reply, Garry has played 25 Qf7, which was one of the many moves
considered here by World Team members on the bulletin boards. This position
has been the subject of much debate over the past week as it looked more
and more likely that this was where we were heading. Therefore, it seems a
good moment to take stock of the situation.
Taking a straight piece count, we can see that there is still a dynamic
balance between the two armies. The only difference between them is that
the World has a Knight and two pawns (three + two points) against Garry's
rook (worth five points) - so from that viewpoint there is equality.
Therefore we have to look at other factors in the position to gain a better
understanding of what is going on.
Both sides have PASSED PAWNS, that is, pawns which are not obstructed in
their path to the other side of the board by other pawns. We can see that
Garry has a passed h-pawn; and the World has passed b-pawns and a passed
d-pawn. As more pieces are exchanged, the power and influence of these
passed pawns increases as it becomes easier for them to move down the
board. Remember, if a pawn gets to the eighth rank they promote to a Queen
- which could easily decide the game.
I think this partly explains Garry's last move, 25 Qf7. He appreciated
that as Black's Bishop was so well placed on the central diagonal it would
be impossible to get his h-pawn safely home; on the other hand, Black's
b-pawn, once the Bishop moved out of the way, would have been extremely
dangerous. Therefore, he has nudged his Queen over so that it is ready, if
necessary, to move back to b3, firmly preventing the b-pawn from rolling
forward.
Black could consider playing the passed d-pawn forward instead, but that
just feels too loose to me. At the moment the king is comfortably placed
behind the two central pawns. Pushing either of them forward would expose
his majesty unnecessarily.
From f7 White's Queen also keeps up the pressure on the e7 pawn, preventing
Black's Knight and Queen from roaming too far.
By the way, just a few moves ago I was advising that it would be highly
desirable for Black to exchange Queens to reduce the pressure on his King.
Now the situation has changed. With the exchange of pieces over the past
few moves the World's King is relatively secure, so there is no need to go
in for a trade. In fact, Garry would very much like to exchange Queens as
that would allow his Rook into the game; and the passed h-pawn would grow
in stature.
The position is still extremely tense. Over the next few moves I think we
can see Garry attempting to bring his Rook to a more active position, and
the World must remain as solid as possible to prevent any incursion.
I'll be discussing the situation in more detail in the Zone theatre chat
room at 2pm PST (10 pm London) today. See you then!
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MOVE 26
Voting Results
f5-f4 42.61%
d4-c5 42.14%
c6-a5 3.34%
e7-e6 2.06%
c6-e5 1.91%
KRUSH MOVE 26 COMMENTARY
f4 to Kasparov's Qb3
SUMMARY
I recommend the World plays the move 26…f4 (Pawn on f5 to f4).
With 26.Qb3, the World Champion has taken prophylactic measures against Black's queenside counterplay (advance of the Black passed b-pawn). In turn, I believe it is necessary to initiate our own preventive measures against White's kingside counterplay (advance of the White passed h-pawn) with the move 26…f4.
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ANALYSIS SECTION - I RECOMMEND 26…f4
Finding no way to overpower the Black position with a straightforward advance of his passed h-pawn (i.e., a "race" of passed pawns), the World Champion has chosen the prophylactic move 26.Qb3. White takes into account Black's counterplay associated with the advance of the passed b-pawn.
Originally, I considered 26...Bc5, freeing the d4-square for the knight, to coordinate pressure against White's kingside, while preparing to advance the b-pawn - a plan that fared very well in many tactical lines initiated by White. On further reflection, I decided that I did not like the White POSITIONAL PLAN initiated by 27.Qb1!? intending to coordinate White's remaining forces (Queen, Rook, and Bishop) prior to advancing the White h-pawn. White's plan, in part, includes returning his Bishop to e3 in order to EXCHANGE our powerful Bishop. This is an insidious positional plan by Kasparov that cannot be taken lightly. Here are some sample lines that demonstrate the effectiveness of White's idea (after 27.Qb1):
A) 27...Qe6 28.Re1 Qg6 29.Be3, and White is for choice as Black's queenside counterplay cannot start.
B) 27...Qxb1 28.Rxb1 d5 (with the idea e7-e5, followed by Kd7-e6) 29.h4! e5 30.h5 Ke6 31.Kf1 Kf7 (after 31...d4 32.Rb3 Kf7 33.Rf3 f4 34.Rh3, White has ACTIVATED his rook and stands better) 32.Ke2 b5 33.Be3, and White has an advantage.
C) 27...Qd5!? 28.Rd1 Qe6 29.Re1 Qd5 30.Be3, and White is for choice. He has coordinated his forces, held up Black's b-pawn counterplay, and can prepare to advance his h-pawn.
However, there is a certain harmony in chess - White took a time-out from his own kingside aspirations by taking PREVENTIVE MEASURES against Black's dangerous b-pawn. In turn, I believe it is now necessary to take prophylactic measures against White's strength - by devaluing his kingside PAWN STRUCTURE. I believe this can be achieved with the move 26...f4!? (my thanks to Peter Spiriev, whose analysis formed a key element of my own findings).
The move 26...f4!? prevents the immediate return of the White Bishop to e3, where it would hope to exchange our "tower of power" on d4. I have looked at three CANDIDATE MOVES and possible continuations for White:
A) 27.Qf7 Be5 28.h4 (28.Qb3 Bd4 would simply repeat the position, while the self-imposed weakening with 28.f3?! would allow 28...Qe3+ 29.Kh1 b5, and Black has excellent counterplay with his b-pawn) 28...b5 29.h5 Qc4! with good play for Black - Spiriev.
B) 27.Qb1 is unlikely as after 27...Bxf2+! Black can just about force a draw, and I do not see Kasparov accepting such an outcome under such circumstances: 28.Kh1 (28.Rxf2? loses to 28…Qxb1+; 28.Kxf2? Qe3 mate) 28...Qxb1 29.Rxb1 e5 30.h4 Ke6 31.Rf1 Bg3, forcing White to "perpetual" the Black pawns after 32.Rb1 (32.h5 Kf5 33.h6 Kg6 34.Kg1 Nd4, wins for Black) 32...Bf2 33.Rf1 Bg3 (Black can try to play for more with 33...Bd4) 34.Rb1 Bf2, with repetition.
C) 27.Qd1 f3! (this timely advance degrades White's pawn structure, and somehow seems consistent with the course set by 18...f5), and now:
C1) 28.gxf3 Qf5 29.Be3 (if 29.h4?! Qh3! with good play for Black, for example: 30.f4 Qg3+ 31.Kh1 Bxf2 32.Rxf2 Qxf2 33.Qg4+ e6 34.h5 Nd4, and Black has a clear plus, illustrated with the variation 35.Bf6 Nf3 36.Qg7+ Kc6 37.Qg2 Qe1+, and mate next move) 29...Bxe3 30.fxe3 Qxh3, with level chances - Spiriev.
C2) 28.Qxf3 Qxf3 29.gxf3 b5 30.Rb1 b4, and Black is OK. Play may continue 31.Bd2 Bc3 32.Bxc3 bxc3 33.Rxb7+ Ke6 34.Rb1 (34.Rb3 loses to 34…Nd4) 34...Nd4 35.Kf1 (35.Kg2 Kd5 36.Rc1 Kc4, and Black wins) 35...Kd5, and Black's CENTRALIZED King and Knight combine with the powerful passed c-pawn to hold the balance. For example, after 36.Rc1 Kc4 37.h4 Nf5 38.h5 Kd3 39.Rd1+ (not 39.Ke1 c2 40.Ra1 Kc3! and Black wins) 39...Kc4 40.Rc1 (Black wins after 40.Ke2 c2 41.Rc1 Kc3) 40...Kd3, with a draw.
C3) 28.g4 appears too loosening. After 28...Qe5 29.Bh4 Qh8 30.Bg3 Qxh3 31.Qxf3 b5, Black has good counterplay.
C4) 28.Re1 is the most critical continuation. After 28...Qf5, I believe Black has good play, for example:
C4a) 29.h4? loses to 29…fxg2, because of the weakness of f2.
C4b) Similarly 29.Bxe7? loses to 29…fxg2.
C4c) 29.Bh4 fxg2 30.Qg4 Qxg4 31.hxg4 b5 (31...Ne5 32.Kxg2, favors White) 32.Kxg2 b4, when Black is probably slightly better, as in this endgame his b-pawn is already advancing and meanwhile he must contend with a less dangerous g-pawn.
C4d) 29.Be3 Bc3!? 30.Qb1 (after 30.Rf1 fxg2 31.Kxg2 b5, Black has good counterplay, while after 30.Bd2 Bxd2 31.Qxd2 fxg2, Black is OK) 30...Qe5!? with good play for Black, for example: 31.Qxb6 (not 31.Bd2? Qg7! winning for Black) 31...Bxe1 32.Qxb7+ Ke6 33.Qxc6 fxg2 34.Kxg2, with equal chances.
So, I recommend 26…f4.
Irina
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
Check out Irina's SMART-FAQ (Up-to-date analysis and downloads for the World Team)
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/SmartChessOnline/archive/MSNKasparov/the_game.htm
PAHTZ MOVE 26 COMMENTARY
Bc5 to Kasparov's Qb3
I would play 26....Bc5. This move closes the c-line and makes the King safer.
Also the square d4 will be free for the Knight, and with a Knight on d4 Black
can play b6-b5.
FELECAN MOVE 26 COMMENTARY
Bc5 to Kasparov's Qb3
My next recommandation is 26...Bc5. It is very hard to find a good move for
Black because we have to be exact, more than ever and we have a lot of
interesting possible moves. One of them is 26...f4 but here White has a very strong
move with 27.Qf7 forcing Black to play 27...Be5 28.h4 d5 (28...b5 doesn't
have much of a future with a White Queen on b3) 29.h5-d4 30.h6 d3 31.Qh5 d2
32.h7 Qd4 33.Rd1 Na5 (trying to defend on d2) 34.Bxe7 Kxe7 35.Rxd2 with a
winning attack for white. Another interesting moves for Black are 26...Ne5
and even 26...Qe6 emerging into a complex endgame. I prefered 26...Bc5
because it creates a safe place for the black king on the "c" file, it still
attacks on f2 and it liberates the d4 square for the Knight. The drawbacks
are that we are not controling the long diagonal a1-h8 anymore, thus we are
allowing more play for the Rook and we have to make another move in order to
stop the "h" pawn. At our 26...Bc5 White has two main options: 27.Be3
trying to trade our active pieces so our attacking chances are severly
diminished, or 27.h4 forcing Black's counterplay to be precise. At 27.Be3
Nd4 and\or Kc7 should be enough and at 27.h4 we have to see if 27...Nd4 is
sufficient; if not we have Kc7!? followed by d5!? as an additional
resource. Good Luck!
BACROT MOVE 26 COMMENTARY
Bc5 to Kasparov's Qb3
White's threat is 27.Be3, so I recommend The World to play the prophylactic move 26...Bc5 with the idea 27.Be3 Nd4.
DANNY KING MOVE 26 COMMENTARY
'Prudent' is how I would describe the last two moves.
On its previous square, b2, the World's Bishop was unprotected, but now
that it has moved to d4, it is supported by the Knight and the Queen. MINOR
PIECES (that is, Bishops and Knights - yet more chess jargon) NEED SOLID
PROTECTION, otherwise they will be vulnerable to short-term threats.
The Bishop has found an excellent central square, protecting the pawn on
b6, but eyeing up White's pawn next to the King. That means the Rook can't
roam too far, for fear of allowing a 'hit' on the f2 pawn.
With his last move 26 Qb3, Garry slams on the brakes. Instead of indulging
in a mad race of passed pawns on opposite sides of the board, he has chosen
to prevent Black's dangerous b-pawn from advancing. Moreover, the Queen
rejoins its comrades. She was in danger of being isolated from her fellow
pieces, and a divided army is a weak army.
Now the position takes on a quieter character. We are unlikely to see
passed pawns being hurled down the board over the next few moves. I expect
Garry to do some re-grouping first, perhaps attempting to activate his
rook. He will also be looking to exchange Queens if possible, for the
endings are mostly favourable for White.
What is important here is that Black should maintain a SOLID,
WELL-COORDINATED POSITION. Call in to the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST
(10 pm London) to see my specific recommendations!
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MOVE 27
Voting Results
d4-e5 85.59%
f4-f3 2.88%
c6-e5 1.90%
b6-b5 1.71%
c6-d8 1.71%
KRUSH MOVE 27 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
I recommend the World plays the move 27...Be5 (Bishop on d4 to e5)
Black's last move (26...f4) vacated the f5-square as a potential abode for the Black Queen - creating ideas of Qe4-f5 chasing down the White Bishop on g5, and/or Nc6-e5 (eyeing the d3-square) increasing Black's central build-up. The World Champion played in the most direct fashion and returned with his Queen to f7 to a) guard the f5-square; b) pressure the e7-point and thus prevent Nc6-e5 ideas, and; c) attack our f-pawn. Now the immediate pawn sacrifice with 27...f3!? is not enough in my view, as after 28.gxf3 Qe5 (with the idea of 29...Qg3+), White can begin to consolidate with 29.Bf4 Qe2 30.Bg3.
I am recommending the defense of our f4-pawn with 27...Be5, reserving the possibility of a disruptive pawn sacrifice with f4-f3. Furthermore, Black maintains his Bishop on the a1-h8 DIAGONAL, and in some variations a maneuver with Nc6-d4 can help reinforce an advance with f4-f3. On e5 the Black Bishop eyes the White King's "LUFT" square on h2. White's main continuations appear to be 28.h4 and 28.f3.
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
PAHTZ MOVE 27 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
Black has to protect the pawn, so 27....Be5 is the only move.
FELECAN MOVE 27 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
In the given position I think the best move for black is 27...Be5 to defend the "f" pawn and to make room for a timely Nd4 while advancing the "b" pawn. Black's position is not great but white should play very precise after 27...Be5 in order to avoid trouble. The next move for black is an obvious pawn advance combined with a queen maneuver. In the case of queen trading I think black has enough to hold the position comfortably because of our more active king(well placed for the ending) and the two passed pawns, which are a very powerful force to deal with. Good Luck!
BACROT MOVE 27 COMMENTARY
Be5 to Kasparov's Qf7
We have no choice, we must protect the pawn f4 with 27...Be5
DANNY KING MOVE 27 COMMENTARY
It's happened again! Just when I thought the game was settling into some quiet manoeuvering in tune with my holiday mood, the World has chosen a sharp continuation, initiating complications. Oh well; looks like the beach will have to wait.
On the World's last turn three out of the four analysts were recommending the solid move 26...Bc5. I believe this would have left White with slightly the better chances, though it would still have been a hard task for the World Champion to make progress.
Instead, the World chose to go with Irina's ambitious recommendation 26...f4. The principle aim of nudging the pawn forward is to lock the bishop on g5 out of the game. This prevents the bishop returning to e3 initiating an exchange which, on the whole, would have been favourable to White.
But now just compare the bishops. Which one is the stronger piece? The centrally placed bishop on d4 controls many more squares than its counterpart on g5. If White should attempt to march the h-pawn down the board, then Black's bishop controls the final queening square; and at the same time it is able to shepherd its own b-pawn down the board; moreover the bishop casts a threatening eye down to the f2 pawn next to White's king.
Look at White's bishop stuck out on g5. It attacks the pawns on f4 and e7, but they can both be taken care of. Apart from that, its scope is limited: with Black's pawn on f4 the bishop can only operate on one side of the board.
Let's take a look at Garry's move. He has moved the queen back from where it has just come from! Why?
For a start, he doesn't lose any time in making this move as Black has to take a moment to defend the pawn on f4. From f7, the queen keeps up the pressure on the f4 pawn, but also the e7 pawn, preventing the knight moving.
In moving the f-pawn forward, Black opened the b1-h7 diagonal, giving White additional resources in a pawn race. In some cases, if Black's queen were to move away from e4, then White's queen could occupy that diagonal and control the queening square on b1. But that is all just supposition for the moment.
Let's take it one step at a time. First Black must do something about the threatened pawn on f4.
Good luck!
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MOVE 28
Voting Results
b6-b5 86.39%
f4-f3 4.06%
d6-d5 1.98%
c6-d8 1.95%
d7-c8 1.27%
KRUSH MOVE 28 COMMENTARY
b5 to Kasparov's h4
I recommend the World plays the move 28...b5 (Pawn on b6 to b5)
A "pawn race" has begun. Black's COUNTERPLAY in response to the advance
of White's passed h-pawn is the advance of its b-pawn.
PAHTZ MOVE 28 COMMENTARY
b5 to Kasparov's h4
With the move 28....b5 we first advance our b-pawn and then we can move
our queen to c4.
FELECAN MOVE 28 COMMENTARY
b5 to Kasparov's h4
Since the other possible pawn move 28...d5
weakens the king's position without accomplishing anything, because it is harder to
protect and push, we have to try our best with the "b" pawn.
The most probable move for white is 29.h5 to keep ahead in the race-
and black is happy to respond with 29...Qc4 when a queen trade is almost
inevitable. Sooner or later, white has to trade queens because our queen and bishop are
a lot stronger than white's queen and bishop; the "h" pawn will benefit from this because
black's control is weakened on h8, but without queens on the board we can
push the "d" pawn ahead. It will be very interesting to see how both sides play
since we are heading into a complicated endgame.
BACROT MOVE 28 COMMENTARY
b5 to Kasparov's h4
The position is difficult. White will now push its passed pawn "h". I recommend playing 28...b5 29.h5, after which Black will have two possible lines:
-29...Qe2 30.Qf5+ Kc7 31.Bxf4 Bxf4 32.Qxf4 Qxh5 with an advantage for White.
-29...Qc4 30.Qf8! (30.Qf5+ Qe6) Qe2 31.Bxf4 Bxf4 32.Qxf4 Qxh5, after which White is better off.
Even if Black is worse off after either of these two lines, I think they represent our best chance to fight for a draw.
DANNY KING MOVE 28 COMMENTARY
Garry has finally launched the h-pawn on its long journey towards the other
side of the board. CHARGE! Remember, if it gets to the eighth rank it will
become a queen, quite enough to decide the game in his favour. Are we
scared? Well, perhaps just a little bit.
Of course, it is not a straightforward task to march the pawn all the way
down the board. At the moment the World's bishop is superbly placed in the
centre of the board, controlling the 'queening square' (h8); and while
White is pushing the h-pawn, Black can get some counterplay on the other
side of the board by pushing his own passed b-pawn.
This is a highly unusual and extraordinarily complex position. Let's take
just one aspect of it. Many people have been asking me in the Zone theatre
chats why Garry hasn't developed his rook on f1. Good question. By this
stage in most games the rook would have been activated, but those 'normal'
rules have to be taken with a pinch of salt here. White's rook simply
doesn't have a safe and useful square to move to, so, for the moment, it
does best to stay protected by the king, guarding, at the very least, the
potentially vulnerable f2 square. The rook must bide its time, but its
moment will eventually come.
No, normal rules cannot be applied here, each position must be judged on
its merits. I suspect we will see a unanimous recommendation from the
analysts on this next turn. Try to work out what that move will be before
looking down the page: the World desperately needs counterplay against the
march of White's h-pawn. How exactly? At the moment Black's queen and
bishop are optimally placed in the centre of the board, the knight cannot
move because the pawn on e7 needs protecting, so what is left...?
If you have questions on the position - or more general chess questions -
join me in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10 pm London).
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MOVE 29
Voting Results
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
KRUSH MOVE 29 COMMENTARY
Qc4 to Kasparov's h5
SUMMARY
With 29…Qc4, Black opposes the Queens - for if White acquiesces to an exchange with 30.Qxc4, Black's queenside pawn structure is repaired and enhanced in value after 30…bxc4. Therefore White is far more likely to avoid an exchange of Queens in this position before he continues with his plan of advancing the White h-pawn. Our analysis on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board suggests that White's most critical responses to 29…Qc4 are 30.Qf5+ and 30.Qf8. The analysis section provides some more details for 29…Qc4 (and other candidate moves for Black).
ANALYSIS
After 29.h5, three CANDIDATE MOVES for Black have captivated our attention on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, namely 29…b4, 29…Qe2, and 29…Qc4. The work presented here represents a collaborative effort by many World Team members both on and off the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board.
The Variation 29…b4
After 29...b4 30.h6 Qc2 (or 30...Qd3), White can play 31.Bxf4, virtually forcing the following line of play: 31…Nd8 32.Qh5 Bxf4 33.h7 Be5 34.Qxe5 dxe5 35.h8=Q Nc6.
In my opinion, this endgame without Bishops offers Black fewer prospects for counterplay, and Black can easily drift into a position where the Black b-pawns are blockaded and the White g-pawn proves unstoppable. This is an inferior version of an endgame derived from the 28.h4 b5 29.h5 Qe2 30.Qf5+ Kc7 31.Bxf4 Bxf4 32.Qxf4 Qxh5 variant - Black's pawn structure is worse in this situation.
The Variation 29…Qe2
After 29…Qe2, play may proceed 30.Bxf4 Bxf4 31.Qxf4 Qxh5 (as indicated by GM Bacrot), or 30.Qf5+ Kc7 31.Bxf4 Bxf4 32.Qxf4 Qxh5.
Also this endgame, following an exchange of Bishops offers Black fewer prospects for counterplay, and Black must be wary of the long-term potential of the White g-pawn. It should be noted that in such positions the Black Knight will be hard pressed to both assist in the advance of Black's b-pawns and cooperate in a defense against the advance of White's g-pawn.
In the lines with 29…b4 and 29…Qe2, Black's Bishop soon departs the board. I do not believe we should so willingly allow the exchange of Black's powerful Bishop. As GM Ilya Gurevich noted, the strategic aim of 26…f4 was to cross White's plans to exchange off this "monster".
The Variation 29…Qc4 - My recommendation to my teammates
After 29...Qc4, White can play 30.Qf8.
[If 30.Qf5+ Qe6 31.Qxe6+ (alternatives are ineffective) 31…Kxe6, with an endgame that has been analyzed to a draw with correct play by Black. Instead 30.Qxc4 bxc4 favors Black. If 30.Qg6, then 30…b4 31.h6 b3 32.h7 b2 33.Qf5+ e6 34.Qf7+ Kc8, transposes to a satisfactory variant from 30.Qf8, as analyzed on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board - see later note]
After 30.Qf8, play may continue 30...b4 31.h6
[If 31.Qa8 Kc7 32.h6 b3! and Black is better; If 31.Qf5+?! Qe6 32.Qxe6+ Kxe6, Black is a tempo up on the endgame resulting from 30.Qf5+ Qe6 31.Qxe6+ Kxe6, which is at least a draw]
31…b3, and now:
A) 32.h7 Qc2, or 32...b2!? leads to a satisfactory position for Black.
B) 32.Qf5+ e6 33.Qf7+ Kc8, and now:
B1) 34.h7 b2 with balanced chances - a position which may also arise from 30.Qg6 (see above).
B2) 34.Qe8+ Kc7 35.Qf7+ (35.h7 b2 36.Qg6 Nd4 37.Re1 Qc2! is good for Black) 35...Kb6 36.Qg6 Nd4 37.h7 Ne2+ 38.Kh2 f3+, when the complications will reduce to a level position.
B3) 34.Bf6 b2 35.Qg8+ Kc7 36.Qh7+ Kb8 37.Bxe5 Nxe5, which analysis has shown leads to a draw.
After 29…Qc4 30.Qf8 b4 31.h6 b3 32.Qf5+ e6, play continues to be lively and balanced. Further details on these variations (and others) which include exhaustive analysis by the World Team can be reviewed in the FAQ.
Therefore my recommendation is 29…Qc4.
PAHTZ MOVE 29 COMMENTARY
Qc4 to Kasparov's h5
With this move the b-pawn can go to b3 without being
taken, because the White queen must move away from the diagonal a2-g8. If White
plays 30.Qf5+ then Black can answer with Qe6.
FELECAN MOVE 29 COMMENTARY
Qc4 to Kasparov's h5
My next recommendation is 29...Qc4 because we have to prepare the way for
the "b" pawn. It is the only way to play against White's "h" pawn; after
29...Qc4 White has two options:
1). Keep the queens on the board and push the pawn while trying to take
advantage of Black's weakened position, or
2). Trade the queens and play the complicated ending resulting from it,
while picking up the pawn on f4.
Probably, the best line for White it is the last one, when Black's "b" pawn
should hold enough compensation for the loss on f4.
BACROT MOVE 29 COMMENTARY
Qc4 to Kasparov's h5
I recommend The World to play 29...Qc4. Now I think 30.Qf8 is the best choice for the World Champion (On 30.Qf5+ Black is not afraid of the possible endgame Qe6 31.Qxe6 Kxe6) 30...Qe2 31.Qf5+ Kc7 32.Bxf4 Bxf4 33.Qxf4 Qxh5 and White is in a better position.
Today I will play my first game in the Rrench Championships 99 which takes place in Besançon, an old French town near the mountains. Joël Lautier, who just arrived from Las Vegas. is ranked No. 1 in this event. .I am ranked N°2. Unfortunately it will be difficult for me to help The World in the game against Kasparov until august 29. I hope The World will hold a good position until then. I want very much to finish the Game of the Century with The World. Good luck to The World..
In Besançon we are waiting for prestigious visitors. The 12th World Champion, Anatoly Karpov, will come here on August 27 and 28 for the closing ceremony. But a fews days before (August 23) the 13 th World Champion will preceed him. Our opponent, Garry Kasparov, will be here in person! People are saying that he will give an explosive press conference and a crushing simultaneous match demonstration.
DANNY KING MOVE 29 COMMENTARY
The tension builds once more in this extraordinary game. We find ourselves
in the middle of a pawn race: both Black and White are aiming to advance
their pawns to the other side of the board to get a new queen. It's a
double-edged business. Pawns are the weakest pieces on the board, but they
have the potential to become the strongest, so on their march they are
suddenly accorded the status of VIPs, shielded by the most important
members of their army.
This is a crucial moment in the game. On this turn a decision must be made
which will have a profound effect on the course of the game. Even after
studying this position for many hours I cannot say for certainty what
Black's best path is - though I do have a strong intuitive feel for which
move to make. Let's go through Black's major options one by one:
It is possible just to push the b-pawn again with 29...b4, but then White
pushes on with 30 h6, and now Black is presented with a problem: he cannot
advance the b-pawn any further because the next square is covered by
White's queen. To make progress he must take time out with the queen,
30...Qd3 for instance, but that leaves the f-pawn unguarded. Black has
resources even here, but I do not believe they are sufficient to hold the
balance.
Next, 29...Qe2. This was suggested by Etienne Bacrot in his analysis on the
previous turn. Black seeks counterplay with his queen - ...Qg4 would be the
next move if, for instance, White pushed the h-pawn again. White's best
response is just to capture the pawn on f4 (perhaps after first checking on
f5 with the queen) 30 Bxf4, which forces the following moves: 30...Bxf4 31
Qxf4 Qxh5. The dangerous h-pawn has been snatched, but White has been able
to exchange off the bishops, robbing Black's position of its dynamism
(remember a few moves ago how Black played ...f4 specifically to prevent
the exchange of those bishops?)
This is a very difficult position to assess. White will get nowhere by
trying to attack with queen and rook as Black's king position is rock
solid, so if he wants to win White must push the g-pawn down the board to
try to get another queen. However, this would mean that White's king which,
until this point, has been quite secure, would become exposed. And Black
does still have some counterplay with the b-pawn.
There is also a third move for Black: 29...Qc4, aiming to knock White's
queen out of the way, clearing the path for the b-pawn. White cannot
seriously consider exchanging queens as that would give Black connected
passed pawns on the queenside, but he can keep playing for the attack with
30 Qf8, maintaining the pressure on the e7 pawn.
This is the most double-edged continuation of all. It could go horribly
wrong for Black, but - so far - no clear method has been found for White to
get the advantage.
As I see it, you have a choice between two quite different continuations:
the solid 29...Qe2, leading to a position giving Black drawing chances; or
a leap of faith with 29...Qc4, leading to random complications (though here
I would also say that Black cannot hope for more than a draw).
See you at 2pm PST (10pm London) today in the Zone theatre chat room and
I'll let you know which move I favour!
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MOVE 30
Voting Results
c4-e6 88.86%
d7-c7 4.23%
e7-e6 4.04%
d7-e8 0.94%
c6-d4 0.62%
KRUSH MOVE 30 COMMENTARY
Qe6 to Kasparov's Qf5
I recommend that The World play 30...Qe6 (Queen on c4 to e6) With 30.Qf5+, the World Champion avoided an exchange of Queens on c4 which would have been in Black's favor, and stayed away from the sharp continuation 30.Qf8 b4! 31.h6 b3, which gave Black strong COUNTERPLAY. After 30.Qf5+ it is necessary for The World to play 30...Qe6, and once more offer an exchange of Queens. We cannot play 30...e6? as after 31.Qf7+ Kc8 32.h6 b4 33.h7, White is well ahead in the "pawn race" and will win. Therefore my recommendation to parry Kasparov's Queen check is 30...Qe6, after which White may play 31.Qxe6+, and after 31...Kxe6, we reach an ENDGAME that has been studied in detail on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board.
PAHTZ MOVE 30 COMMENTARY
Qe6 to Kasparov's
Qf5 After 30....Kc7 31.Qf8 The World would be in a bad position. So The World must play 30....Qe6.
FELECAN MOVE 30 COMMENTARY
Qe6 to Kasparov's Qf5
In this position the best move for The World is 30...Qe6 because White's queen occupies a very strong position on f5, controlling the b1 square - the transformation square for our pawn - and at the same time it supports the 'h' pawn on its way to transformation. With 30...Qe6 we are offering a queen trade, while we are strongly decreasing White's chances of attacking and we are moving our king toward his passed pawn. If White declines the queen trade with moves like 31.Qd3, The World can be happy that White's queen moved from the f5 square and it can further push the "b" pawn with 31...b4. Anyway, The World can be proud of making the 30th move into a complicated position with good chances for both sides. Keep up! and you still need a lot of Good Luck! BACROT MOVE 30 COMMENTARY Etienne is participating in the French National Championships, so we will have a temporary break in his coverage of the Kasparov event.
BACROT MOVE 30 COMMENTARY
Etienne is participating in the French National Championships, so we will have a temporary break in his coverage of the Kasparov event.
DANNY KING MOVE 30 COMMENTARY
The World is in check from Garry's queen. Time to panic? Not at all! Just work through the alternatives one by one to find the best way out. Let me just point out one rather extraordinary line which was discussed in my Zone theatre chat the other night. In this position after 30 Qf5+, someone recommended moving the king out of check with 30...Ke8. I didn't trust the move because it leaves the king open to more checks, but off the top of my head I couldn't refute it. I tried 31 Qc8+, but 31...Nd8 was a good reply, safeguarding the king, and offering an exchange of queens which, in this case, would be fine for Black. So instead of 31 Qc8+ I tried 31 h6, but after 31...Nd4 Black's pieces were very active, 32 Qg6+ could be met by 32...Qf7, and again, Black was doing fine. But, looking at this position once more, it occurs to me that instead of 32 Qg6+, White may play 32 Qxe5, giving up the queen for the bishop, but allowing the h-pawn to roll home: 32...dxe5 33 h7, and Black is unable to stop the pawn marching to the eighth rank to become a new queen. White would then be winning as he has an extra rook. Very tricky! Of course, there is a stronger way of getting out of the check for Black - which I believe our analysts will all recommend. In fact there is only one decent move here - but it is good enough. We are about to enter into the critical final phase of the game. It is going to be an exciting conclusion! Join me tonight in the Zone theatre chat room if you would like to discuss this position, or if you have any other chess questions.
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MOVE 31
Voting Results
d7-e6 98.23%
d7-e8 0.64%
d7-c7 0.54%
d7-d8 0.23%
c6-d8 0.12%
KRUSH MOVE 31 COMMENTARY
Kxe6 to Kasparov's Qxe6+
I recommend the World plays the move 31...Kxe6 (King on d7 captures Queen on e6) The World Champion was forced to exchange Queens. In turn our move is FORCED - we must recapture his QUEEN.
PAHTZ MOVE 31 COMMENTARY
Kxe6 to Kasparov's Qxe6+
The World must take White's queen. FELECAN MOVE 31 COMMENTARY Florin Felecan's recommended move and commentary will appear here soon.
BACROT MOVE 31 COMMENTARY
Etienne is participating in the French National Championships, so we will have a temporary break in his coverage of the Kasparov event.
DANNY KING MOVE 31 COMMENTARY
Shouldn't be too difficult to find the next move! I am rather surprised we have found ourselves in an endgame - I had expected Garry to keep the queens on in the hope of getting an attack, even though I was confident that Black's resources were sufficient. Anyhow, let's be objective and deal with the current situation. After Black recaptures the queen, the material balance will still be equal: Black has a knight and two pawns (3 + 2) against White's rook (5 points). Black has so-called 'doubled' b-pawns (generally a disadvantage), though even the lame one on b7 provides the knight with a stable square on c6. There are plenty of 'positives' about Black's position. The knight and bishop are both actively placed, and well protected; and the king is well placed in the centre of the board, ready to hinder White's passed h-pawn, or support its own passed b-pawn. In the endgame it is essential to use the king actively. Now that the queens have been exchanged the king will not come to any harm in the middle of the board; in fact, it is now far better placed than its counterpart languishing on g1 - what a turnaround in fortunes. But what really decides an endgame is whether one side or the other can force a pawn to the eighth rank to get a new queen. Garry has a PASSED PAWN on h5, and the World has its own on b5, far from White's king - making it rather dangerous. (Remember, if a pawn is described as 'passed' it means its path to the eighth rank is unhindered by an enemy pawn in front or to the side of it.) The remainder of this game is going to be devoted to the attempt by both sides to force a pawn to the queening square. I am travelling again today, so I won't be able to host the Zone theatre chat tonight, but I will be back on Sunday evening, same time, same place. Hope to see you then!
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MOVE 32
Voting Results
f4-g3 72.67%
f4-f3 19.06%
e6-f5 3.79%
c6-d4 2.31%
b5-b4 1.00%
KRUSH MOVE 32 COMMENTARY
fxg3 to Kasparov's g3
I recommend the World plays the move 32...fxg3 (Pawn on f4 captures Pawn on g3)
With the move 32...fxg3, we meet the World Champion's threat to capture on f4. Black exchanges his potentially over-extended f-pawn for a valuable White kingside pawn, and limits White's options.
The dubious alternative 32...f3?! meets with 33.Rb1! b4 (Instead 33...Kf5 34.Bd2 Nd4 35.Rb4! wins for White) 34.g4! and White has established a dangerous duo of CONNECTED passed pawns, while placing Black's counterplay with the passed b-pawn under firm observation, for example 34...Kf7 (34...Kd5 35.h6 Kc4 36.Be3 b3 37.g5 Kc3 38.g6 b2 39.g7, is winning for White) 35.Bc1! Bc3 36.Kh2, and White has a clear advantage after 36...Ne5 37.Kg3, or 36...Be5+ 37.Kh3.
Therefore, I recommend 32...fxg3 for Black.
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Check out Irina's SMART-FAQ (Up-to-date analysis and downloads for the World Team)
PAHTZ MOVE 32 COMMENTARY
f3 to Kasparov's g3
With the move 32.g3 white wants to play Bxf4 next move. Exchanging bishops would then be bad, because the black bishop controls the square h8. So we have after 32.g3 two possibilities: 32....fxg3 and 32....f3. The move 32....fxg3 is bad, because it opens after 33.fxg3 from white the f-file. So we must play 32....f3.
FELECAN MOVE 32 COMMENTARY
fxg3 to Kasparov's g3
My recommendation for black's 32nd move is fxg3. The pawn on f4 has a very good position but black cannot keep this square under control anymore. The other choices as 32...f3, 32...Kf5 and 32...Nd4 are interesting because they keep the "f" file closed and white's rook inactive, though it seems that we are not making harder for white to develop his kingside pawn majority. With 32...fxg3 we are trading one more pawn and we are weakening white's pawn structure; the downside is that white's rook suddenly becomes very active. The most probable reply for white would be 33.fxg3-- since at 33.f4 black has 33...Kf5!-- when our king's access to the "h" pawn via f5 or f7 is forbidden. We can compensate for that by switching our king back to the queenside to provide support for the "b" pawn(s) while maintaining a B+N blockade for white's dangerous pawns: 33...b4, Kd5, Bd4 and Ne5.
BACROT MOVE 32 COMMENTARY
Etienne is participating in the French National Championships, so we will have a temporary break in his coverage of the Kasparov event.
DANNY KING MOVE 32 COMMENTARY
Ever since the World played the enterprising move 10...Qe6 in the opening, Garry Kasparov has had a problem: Black's pieces have been far more active than White's. With this bold and radical move, 32 g3, the World Champion is addressing this issue. He is quite prepared to give up a pawn if it means that his bishop is once more connected with the other side of the board, and his rook comes into the game. Moreover, his king can also enter the fray - crucial in this phase of the game when there are so few pieces on the board.
The World should think very carefully before snapping off the pawn on g3 with 32...fxg3 33 fxg3 Bxg3. Winning a pawn would be very nice, but I would examine the consequences very carefully before doing so. For a moment Black would be distracted from his real aim in the endgame of pushing his PASSED PAWN on the b-file; and Garry would win time for advancing his passed h-pawn.
One capture might be alright, but I am not so sure about the second. Anyway, these are Black's options: 32...fxg3; or 32...f3, in both cases doing something about the threatened pawn on f4; and 32...b4, a more radical attempt, pushing the b-pawn but giving up a pawn.
It is amazing how complex the position has remained throughout the game, even after the queens have been exchanged. Clear calculation is the only way to determine which is the best move to play. If you are struggling with that, check out what the analysts have to say; and for more interactive advice, join me in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) where I will be discussing the position and fielding any other chess questions.
Danny
Moderator Danny King will be in the MSN Gaming Zone's Theater Chat Room on World Team voting days. When you see the voting tool, head over to the Chat Room at 2 P.M. Pacific Time (10 P.M. GMT) and talk about the event.
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MOVE 33
Voting Results
b5-b4 72.15%
e5-g3 18.95
c6-d4 2.94
c6-d8 2.28
e5-d4 1.72
KRUSH MOVE 33 COMMENTARY
b4 to Kasparov's fxg3
I recommend the World plays the move 33...b4 (Pawn on b5 to b4)
Black has only two possibilities for consideration. I gave serious
consideration to the alternative 33...Bxg3 (accepting the pawn
sacrifice). After 34.h6 Be5 35.h7 Bg7 36.Rf8 b4 37.h8=Q Bxh8 38.Rxh8,
Black is compelled once and for all to sacrifice his Bishop for the
remaining White pawn, reaching a complicated N + 4P v. R + B endgame.
This ENDGAME cannot be dismissed out of hand as it offers drawing
chances by reaching certain kinds of FORTRESS positions in which Black
has an active King and works to advance his central pawns. Variations
emanating from this sequence are intricate - and some of the lines we
have examined are not necessarily forced in nature. The line is
interesting and has generated intense discussion and application of
"computer power". From a practical viewpoint I appreciate the potential
danger in this line, for should we be wrong there can be no recovery for Black.
The move 33...b4 is consistent with the strategy of generating
COUNTERPLAY with the speedy advance of the Black b-pawn. When the Black
b-pawn reaches b2 (supported by Black's Bishop on the a1-h8 diagonal) it will limit the scope of White's Rook. Meanwhile, Black's intention is to coordinate the powers of his King, Bishop and Knight to counteract the advance of White's pawns while threatening to PROMOTE the b-pawn.
Therefore, based on my current understanding and the evaluation of the
analysis by my teammates at this juncture, my recommendation is for
Black to play 33...b4. I believe 33...b4 is the best way for Black to
proceed.
PAHTZ MOVE 33 COMMENTARY
b4 to Kasparov's fxg3
I think we must advance our pawn. So I would play b4.
FELECAN MOVE 33 COMMENTARY
b4 to Kasparov's fxg3
The best available move for black in this position it is , in my opinion, 33...b4 because black is not losing precious time to capture the pawn on g3, even though it is an interesting (but insufficient)option. Our "b" pawn(s) should be the equivalent of white's "h" pawn; firstly, a good idea for black is to push this pawn as far as possible in order to generate counterplay. Secondly, black should find a better square for the knight, to guard white's pawns or to support the pawn advance. With this two ideas materialized, black should have, at least an equal game.
BACROT MOVE 33 COMMENTARY
Etienne is participating in the French National Championships, so we will have a temporary break in his coverage of the Kasparov event.
DANNY KING MOVE 33 COMMENTARY
Garry's move 32 g3 was most efficient. It forced the World to exchange
pawns on g3 resulting in this position where, magically, White's rook,
without moving, is wonderfully placed, and the bishop on g5 can connect
with the other side of the board.
Let's take a look at the rook's position more closely. One of Black's
defensive possibilities was to move the king over to block White's PASSED H-PAWN. But now, with the opening of the f-file, the king cannot cross through the line of the rook. In chess jargon, we say that the rook is CUTTING OFF the king. Restricting the king in this manner is a common theme in endgames.
You may have noticed that Black is able to capture the pawn on g3 with the bishop. In my last Zone chat this move was the subject of some debate: it seemed like everyone wanted to take that pawn. I don't know whether this was just natural human instinct to grab a free lunch, or if this was just the recommendation of the average computer (they can be quite materialistic too!) Possibly both.
Whatever the case, this would be like trying to steal a gold tooth from a crocodile's mouth: the prize isn't worth the risk. White's h-pawn would rapidly run towards the eighth rank and, although the bishop, along with the knight, could come back to try to defend, White would have tremendous play. As I mentioned above, it is significant that, with the position of White's rook, Black's king is unable to move across to block the pawn. My gut instinct says that capturing the pawn on g3 would lose for Black and, on closer examination, my head agrees.
It is important to keep in mind the basic aim in the endgame: to get a new queen. To do that you have to push your passed pawns. Go to it!
See you in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) if you would like to ask about the position, or if you have any other general chess questions.
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MOVE 34
Voting Results
e5-d4 87.03%
e5-f4 3.29%
b4-b3 3.13%
c6-d4 1.61%
e5-f6 1.49%
KRUSH MOVE 34 COMMENTARY
Bd4+ to Kasparov's Bf4
I recommend the World plays the move 34...Bd4+ (Bishop on e5 to d4
check)
The World Champion is offering to exchange Bishops - a trade we must
absolutely DECLINE. Our beautiful Bishop radiates energy on the a1-h8
LONG DIAGONAL where it serves the DUAL purpose of helping control the
advance of White's passed pawns while aiding the advance of Black's
PASSED b-PAWN. Therefore we must move our BISHOP. There is only one
suitable move - in fact our move is FORCED - we must play 34...Bd4+
giving CHECK to the White King. After Kasparov moves his King (most
logical is 35.Kg2), Black will be able to continue with his plan of
advancing his pawn rapidly to b2 in order to limit the action of the
White Rook.
What is the purpose behind Kasparov's move (34.Bf4)? He is using the
threat to exchange our Bishop in order to initiate a plan of
CENTRALIZING his King. If White's King were to complete a MANEUVER with
Kg1-g2-f3-e2/e4-d3-c2, Kasparov could once more engineer a challenge to
our Bishop with the MANEUVER Bf4-d2-c3, while at the same time using his
King to contain Black's COUNTERPLAY on the Queenside. Although White
apparently loses a TEMPO with 34.Bf4, he shall regain it when the Black
Bishop must ultimately vacate the d4-square for other duties.
Notice that there is no logical alternative to 34...Bd4+. For example,
if 34...Bh8? White will quickly drown the Black Bishop (on h8) with
pawns after 35.g4! b3 36.g5! and White's position is overwhelming.
After 34...Bd4+ 35.Kg2, Black should continue with his Queenside
counterplay with 35…b3, and after the logical and obvious centralizing
move 36.Kf3, Black must play the direct and logical CENTRALIZING move
36...Kd5! (depriving the White king of the e4-square). In the ENDGAME,
the King becomes a more powerful entity, and can be used in the fight
for squares - we will threaten to use OUR King to assist the advanced
Black b-PAWN in its goal of reaching the PROMOTION SQUARE on b1.
Irina
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
Check out Irina's SMART-FAQ (Up-to-date analysis and downloads by and
for the World Team)
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/SmartChessOnline/archive/MSNKasparov/the_game.htm
PAHTZ MOVE 34 COMMENTARY
Bd4+ to Kasparov's Bf4
I would play 34....Bd4+, to lose no time.
FELECAN MOVE 34 COMMENTARY
Bd4+ to Kasparov's Bf4
In this position Black's only move may be 34...Bd4+ to preserve the bishop and to save a "tempo" for the "b" pawn. I thought of 34...b3, to allow White to trade our bishop and in exchange to give us an extra "tempo", but Black would not be able to hold the position anymore; his advanced "b" pawn would be very weak and White's pawns would be unstoppable. White's reply at 34...Bd4+ should be 35.Kh2!? instead of the usual 35.Kg2 which allows, in some lines a knight check:
35.Kg2 b3 36.g4 b2 37.g5 Nb4 38.h6 Nd3, with the threat of 39...Nxf4+ or 39...Nc1.
BACROT MOVE 34 COMMENTARY
Etienne is competing at the French National Championships, so we will have a temporary break in his commentary.
DANNY KING MOVE 34 COMMENTARY
I must admit, I hadn't foreseen this last move from Garry. I was
concentrating my analysis on 34 Kf2 (with the idea of bringing the king
across to halt the b-pawn) but all that is by the by.
In fact, retreating the bishop with 34 Bf4 partially serves the same
purpose. After, for instance, 34...Bd4+ 35 Kg2, White's king might still
wander over to the other side of the board to stop the b-pawn, but its
route will be via f3-e4-d3 and c2 - but don't worry, Black gets a few moves
in between! That is just a plan for White. Anyhow, I am racing ahead. Let's
look at the move 34 Bf4 in more detail, and Black's possible responses.
Garry is offering to trade bishops. Should Black go in for this? I would
strongly advise not to. The bishop on e5, magnificently situated on the
longest diagonal of the board, is the pride of the World's position.
Throughout the game it has been a thorn in the World Champion's side (and
middle for that matter). In this endgame the bishop performs a special
role: it guides the b-pawn down the board, and covers h8, the queening
square for White's h-pawn. After the exchange, with Black's king CUT OFF by
the rook from the side of the board, the h-pawn would run through to the
eighth rank.
In other words, moving the bishop is advisable. As I see it, there are two
basic options: 34...Bd4+, as I gave above, gaining a little time by
checking so as to push the b-pawn forward; or moving the bishop back to h8,
getting well out of the way of White's pieces and pawns.
As Black can avoid the exchange of bishops so easily, there has to be
another reason behind Garry's move 34 Bf4: to clear the way for the g-pawn
to advance, of course. He can see that, on its own, the h-pawn won't make
it to the finishing post, so Garry is enlisting the support of its comrade
the g-pawn. Such CONNECTED PASSED PAWNS (pawns standing on adjacent files
with a free run to the queening square) are a force to be reckoned with,
though they are still some way from their goal.
All very tense! For a detailed discussion of the position I'll see you in
the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London.
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MOVE 35
Voting Results
b4-b3 89.49%
c6-e5 2.87%
e6-f5 1.85%
e6-d5 0.75%
c6-d8 0.70%
KRUSH MOVE 35 COMMENTARY
b3 to Kasparov's Kh1
I recommend the World plays the move 35…b3 (Pawn on b4 to b3)
SUMMARY
The World Champion has played an apparently paradoxical and seemingly correct King move - the possibility of which was first pointed out to me by IM Kenneth Regan. My analysis reveals to me that this move by Kasparov (35.Kh1!?) is both brilliant and venomous in nature. The most natural-looking move for White, in my opinion, was 35.Kg2, but it seemed to me that Black had sufficient resources for counterplay after 35.Kg2 b3 36.Kf3, with 36…b2 37.Ke4 Bh8!? So why did the World Champion play this alternate King move? It must be directed against Black's plan of COUNTERPLAY with b4-b3 and Nc6-b4.
I am now recommending the move 35…b3. I hope that the analysis I am presenting will shed some light on my opinion on how Black should conduct his counterplay.
ANALYSIS SECTION
THE VARIATIONS 35…b3 36.Bh6? and 36.h6
After 35...b3, White cannot play:
A) 36.Bh6? as after 36…b2 37.Bf8 Na5 38.h6 Nb3, Black is winning, or;
B) 36.h6, when Black can play 36…b2!? with counterplay or the interesting pawn sacrifice 36...Kf7!?
THE VARIATION 35…b3 36.g4, with 36…b2? and 36…Nb4?! and 36…Kd7?
To me it seems that the most dangerous idea for White is to quickly run his g-pawn:
C) 36.g4, and now:
C1) 36...b2? is bad, in my opinion, because of 37.g5, for example:
C1a) 37...Na5 38.g6 Nc4 (38...Nb3 39.h6 Nc1 40.g7, and White wins) 39.h6 Na3 40.g7, winning for White.
C1b) 37...Ne5 (or 37...Nb4) 38.g6 Nd3 transposes to 36...Nb4 37.g5 b2 38.g6 Nd3 - variation C2a, which is good for White.
So what about our other idea with Nc6-b4?
C2) 36...Nb4 (?!) - This is the very plan that 35.Kh1 appears to be aimed against. If the following analysis is correct, then Black cannot play 36...Nb4.
White plays 37.g5, and now:
C2a) 37...b2 38.g6 Nd3 (38...Nc2 39.h6 Na3 40.g7 Kf7 41.Be5+, and White wins) 39.h6 Nxf4 40.g7 Kf7 41.Rxf4+ Bf6 42.Rf1 Kg8 (42...d5 43.Rg1 Bg5 44.g8=Q+ Kxg8 45.Rxg5+, winning for White) 43.Rg1 (a point of 35.Kh1 is revealed) 43...Bg5 44.h7+ Kxh7 45.g8=Q+ Kxg8 46.Rxg5+, and White wins.
C2b) 37...Nd3 (We can see another point to Kg1-h1 - as pointed out by IM Kenneth Regan - in that Nd3xf4 will NOT be check, and if the White king had been on h2 with 35.Kh2 there is never a possibility of a Bd4-e5 pin), and now White has the strong 38.h6, for example:
C2b1) 38...b2 39.g6, with:
C2b1a) 39...Nc1 40.g7 b1=Q (40...Bxg7 41.hxg7 Kf7 42.Be5+, wins for White) 41.g8=Q+, winning.
C2b1b) 39...Nf2+ 40.Kg2, and White wins.
C2b1c) 39...b1=Q 40.Rxb1 Nxf4 41.Re1+! (41.g7? Bxg7 42.hxg7 Kf7, and Black is OK) 41...Be5 42.g7 Kf7 43.Rg1, and White wins - and we see a significance to 35.Kh1.
C2b1d) 39...Bf6 40.g7 Kf7 41.Rg1 Bxg7 42.hxg7 (not 42.Rxg7+? Kf6 43.Rg1 Nxf4 and Black may hold) 42...Kg8 43.Bh6 Nc1 44.Rf1 b1=Q 45.Rf8+ Kh7 46.Rh8+ Kg6 47.g8=Q+, winning for White.
C2b2) 38...Nxf4 39.Rxf4 b2 40.Rf1, and now:
C2b2a) 40...b1=Q 41.Rxb1 Kf5 42.Rb5+ (not 42.Rxb7? Kxg5 43.h7 Kg6 44.Rxe7 Bg7, and Black is OK) 42...Kg6 43.Rd5! Bh8 (43...e5 44.Rxd6+ Kxg5 45.Rxd4 exd4 46.h7, winning for White) 44.Kg2, and I think White should win.
C2b2b) 40...Be3!? (IM Kenneth Regan's idea to lure the White h-pawn forward) 41.h7 Bd4 (41...Bc1 42.h8=Q b1=Q 43.Qc8+ Kd5 44.Rd1+, wins for White) 42.Kg2 b6 (42...Kd5 43.Rd1 Kc5 44.Rxd4 b1=Q 45.h8=Q Qb2+ 46.Kg3 Qxd4 47.Qxd4+ Kxd4 48.g6, and White wins as the Black King is out of the square of the White pawn) 43.Kh3 b1=Q 44.Rxb1 Kf5 45.Rxb6, and now:
C2b2b1) 45...Kxg5 46.Rb8 Kf4 47.h8=Q Bxh8 48.Rxh8 d5 49.Kg2 Ke3 50.Re8 d4 51.Rxe7+ Kd2 52.Kf2, and White wins.
C2b2b2) 45...Kg6 46.Rb7 Kxh7 47.Rxe7+ Kg6 48.Kg4, and this endgame should be winning for White.
C3) What if Black plays a paradoxical King move of his own after 35.Kh1 b3 36.g4, with 36…Kd7(?), intending counterplay with e7-e5.
After 36…Kd7, White has the deadly 37.Bh6! to which I can find no defense, for example: 37...Nd8 (37...b2 38.g5 Na5, is too slow: 39.g6 Nc4 40.g7 Bxg7 41.Bxg7 Nd2 42.Bxb2 Nxf1 43.h6, winning for White) 38.g5 Ne6 39.g6 Ng7 40.Bxg7 Bxg7 41.Kg2 b2 42.Kf3 Ke6 43.Ke4, and White should win.
If this analysis holds up - and we certainly have TIME to find some improvements for Black, it means that after 35…b3 36.g4, Black cannot play 36…b2, 36…Nb4 or 36…Kd7.
THE VARIATION 35…b3 36.g4 Kd5
So after 35…b3 36.g4, how does Black continue? Stepping back for a moment, we realize that Kasparov has eschewed the plan of King centralization, and interfering with our ambitions for our b-pawn (with his King). By playing 35.Kh1, he wants to further his own ambitions with his passed pawns, and to neutralize certain avenues of Black counterplay. In doing so, we can see that he will have less influence on events in the CENTER, and in my opinion, it is here - in the center - where we must direct our counterplay.
C4) I believe Black can continue after 35.Kh1 b3 36.g4, with 36…Kd5, to initiate counterplay with e7-e5.
For example:
C4a) 37.g5 e5, and now:
C4a1) 38.Be3? Bxe3 39.h6 Ne7 40.h7 Ng6 41.Rf6 b2, and Black is winning.
C4a2) 38.Bh2 e4 39.g6 Ne7 40.Rb1 (40.Kg2 Ke6!? looks unclear) 40...b2, with counterplay.
C4a3) 38.Bd2 e4 39.Kg2 e3 40.Be1, and now 40...b2, or 40…e2!? with counterplay.
C4b) 37.h6 b2 38.g5 e5 39.Bd2 Ne7 40.Kg2 e4, and Black has counterplay.
C4c) 37.Rd1 Ke4 38.Bg5 (not 38.h6? Kxf4 39.Rxd4+ Nxd4 40.h7 b2 41.h8Q b1Q+, and Black wins) 38...b2, with counterplay for Black
C4d) 37.Bh6 (the move which seems to demolish 36…Kd7) 37...b2 (not 37...Na5? 38.g5 b2 39.g6 Nc4 40.g7 Bxg7 41.Bxg7 Nd2 42.Bxb2 Nxf1 43.h6, and White wins), and now:
C4d1) 38.Bf8, when Black may have two ways to play:
C4d1a) 38...Na5, and now:
C4d1a1) 39.Rd1 Nc4 40.Bg7 Ne3! 41.Bxd4 (41.Rxd4+ Kc5 42.Rb4 Kxb4 43.Bxb2 Nxg4, and Black is better) 41...Nxd1 42.Bxb2 Nf2+! 43.Kg2 Nxg4 44.Kf3 Ne5+, with a plus for Black.
C4d1a2) 39.g5 Nb3 40.Rb1 Nd2 41.Rxb2 Bxb2 42.g6 Ke6 43.h6 Kf6 44.Bg7+ Kxg6 45.Bxb2 Kxh6, and Black wins.
C4d1a3) 39.h6 Nb3 40.Rb1 (not 40.Bg7? Nc1, winning for Black) 40...Nd2 41.Rxb2 (41.Bg7? Nxb1 42.Bxd4 Nc3! and Black wins) 41...Bxb2 42.Bg7 Ne4 43.Bxb2 Ng5 44.Bc1 Nf7 45.g5 Nh8 46.Bb2 e5, and Black should at least hold. Or the possibility:
C4d1b) 38...Bf6 39.h6 (Black wins after 39.g5 Bxg5 40.h6 Bc1) 39...Ne5 40.Bg7 (40.g5 Bxg5, and Black wins) 40...Nxg4 41.Bxf6 Nxf6 42.Rb1 Ke6 43.Rxb2 Kf7 44.Rh2 (44.Rxb7 Kg6 45.Rxe7 Kxh6, with a drawn endgame) 44...Kg6, with the idea Kg6-h7, followed by Nf6-g8xh6, eliminating White's last pawn for a draw.
C4d2) 38.g5, with:
C4d2a) 38...Be3 39.Rb1 Bc1 40.Bg7 Ne5 (40...e5 loses to 41.Bf6!) 41.h6, and White wins. Better is,
C4b2b) 38...Nd8 39.g6 Ne6, with counterplay for Black.
My conclusion at this time is that Black must play 35…b3, and after 36.g4, continue with 36…Kd5. We have TIME to refine and more fully explore these ideas.
PAHTZ MOVE 35 COMMENTARY
b3 to Kasparov's Kh1
I would advance my b-pawn b4-b3. All other moves lose time.
FELECAN MOVE 35 COMMENTARY
b3 to Kasparov's Kh1
In this position I recommend 35...b4-b3 for The World as being the move
which continues the best our plan. An early blockade try with 35...Kf5
fails to 36.Bh6+( 36.Bxd6? because of 36...Kg5 and the "h" pawn is lost)
followed by g3-g4-g5.
After black's 35...b3 White should advance his pawns, too with 36.g4
when the next line is possible: 36...b2 -same argument as for the previous
move; The World is trying to keep white's rook pasive, continiously preocupied
with defending the 1st rank- 37.g5 Kf7!?-taking advantage that white's
bishop is on f4 black is moving his king toward the dangerous
pawns-38.Be5+!?-since no other check is more efficient(38.Bxd6+ wins a pawn
for white but after 38...Kg7 Black doesn't have much of a problem) white is
trying to keep the Black king out of the play as much as possible- 38...Kg8
39.Bxd4-trading black's powerful bishop- 39...Nxd4 40.Rb1-if 40.g6? then
40...Ne2, or 40.h6 Kh7-40...Kh7 41.Rxb2 Ne6 42.g6+ -42.Rg2? b5 43.Kg1 b4
44.Kf1 b3 45.Ke1 b2- 42...Kh6 43.Rxb7=
BACROT MOVE 35 COMMENTARY
b3 to Kasparov's Kh1
I recommend the world to push its passed pawn 35...b3.
Dear chess fans,
I am back affter my 1,115 days of silence.
During this time I took part in the French national championships. And finally I won first place!
After winning the Grandmaster tournament in Bermuda in January, the Lausanne Young Masters
in May, the French Championship title is my third victory this year.
In Besançon, I had the chance to meet The World's prestigious opponent, Garry Kasparov.
People there were very enthusiastic about his appearance in France. He played a simul
and won all 25 games, in true World Champion's form.
DANNY KING MOVE 35 COMMENTARY
Garry moves his king into the corner: what a shocker! This goes against
accepted wisdom that one should use the king actively in the endgame.
Early in the game when the mud is flying, the king should be hidden away,
but, with fewer pieces remaining, his majesty isn't going to be checkmated
in the middle of the board, and actually becomes a mighty piece. So what
exactly is the World Champion doing by playing the king into the corner?
(Most of us had been looking at playing the king forward to g2, with the
idea of marching it across to stop the b-pawn.)
This is a very deep idea. There is one crucial variation where it suits
White to have the king on h1 rather than g2, or h2. It gets rather
complicated but bear with me, it is fascinating! First let me give you the
variation, and then I will attempt to explain it:
35...b3 36 g4 b2 37 g5 Nb4 38 g6 Nd3 39 h6 b1(Q) 40 Rxb1 Nxf4 41 Re1+ Be5
42 g7 Kf7 43 Rg1, with a winning position for White!!
Let's go from the very beginning. Black plays 35...b3 - as we know the aim
in the endgame is to try to get a new queen by pushing the pawn to the
eighth rank. White answers with 36 g4, and Black pushes the pawn on again
with 36...b2. White pushes on again, 37 g5.
Now Black cannot get a queen because White's rook covers the promotion
square b1.
So the knight is thrown in to assist: 37...Nb4. White pushes on again, 38
g6. Black moves the knight in with 38...Nd3, attacking the bishop, but,
instead of moving the bishop, White stays cool as a cucumber in a cold
salmon sandwich, ignores the threat, and pushes again with 39 h6.
Only at this point is it possible to see why Garry has moved the king into
the corner.
If Black wins the bishop according to the variation I gave above with
39...b1(Q) 40 Rxb1 Nxf4, because the king stands on h1, instead of g2,
White is NOT IN CHECK, so therefore has a 'free' move to force the pawns
home, and this he can do with the clever 41 Re1+ (this is the difficult
move to see at the start of this sequence).
Whichever way Black gets out of this check he is lost. For instance, moving
the king away to d7 moves too far from the pawns; and 41...Kf6 loses to 42
g7 Kf7 43 Rxe7+. While 41...Be5, as I gave above, loses to 42 g7 Kf7 (the
only way to prevent White queening); but now 43 Rg1 does the trick as
43...Kg8 loses to 44 h7+.
This is the justification of moving the king into the corner. IF the king
were on g2, in one variation Black would capture the bishop on f4 WITH
CHECK, losing one vital move for White.
The more perceptive of you might be asking, 'Wouldn't it do just as well
for the king to be on h2?' (as Florin suggested yesterday). Here's the
critical variation which shows that it would not have been as good as
playing the king into the corner:
35...b3 36 g4, and now, instead of 36...b2 as I gave above, Black could try
36...Nb4, and if 37 g5 Nd3. The knight arrives a move earlier, but White
ignores it: 38 g6 Nxf4 39 Rxf4 b2 40 Rf1, and Black has no decent defence
to the advance of White's pawns.
The point is that IF White's king had been on h2, then Black could have
played 39...Be5, pinning the rook to the king, and winning. Nevertheless,
Florin was certainly on the right lines when he was looking for a square
which avoided a check on f4.
Normally, I would not go into such detail. In this case, however, it is
necessary. First, because in order to explain Garry's move, it needs a
detailed treatment. I don't think I should hide that chess IS a complicated
game.
Second, because I believe the World is moving onto the critical list. The
variations I have given above need to be improved on or Black is going
rapidly downhill. I certainly do not present the lines above as forced, but
I am sure they are what Garry has in mind.
So, this is your task: you need to find a defence to the inexorable advance
of White's pawns, and you need to find it quickly.
See you in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) for a full
discussion of the position.
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MOVE 36
Voting Results
e6-d5 37.69%
b3-b2 37.11%
c6-b4 14.34%
c6-e5 3.61%
e6-f6 1.10%
KRUSH MOVE 36 COMMENTARY
Kd5 to Kasparov's g4
I recommend the World plays the move 36...Kd5 (King on e6 to d5)
SUMMARY
The World Champion has played the most direct and forcing move 36.g4. I
am now recommending the move 36...Kd5, ACTIVATING the Black King.
Black's King vacates the e6-square (and the e-file), in preparation for
e7-e5 (or perhaps e7-e6!?) followed by Nc6-e7. One idea is to generate
counterplay (e7-e5-e4, and b3-b2) while coordinating our Bishop and
Knight to either BLOCKADE the White passed pawns, or even possibly
sacrifice a piece to KILL the White passed pawns. Additionally, Black is
menacing with his advanced b-pawn (a charged particle that will cost
White material when the Black King threatens a march on the LIGHT
SQUARES to a2 or c2 in support of a Black pawn on b2). Once again, we
have TIME to explore and refine these concepts - it is the moment for
the human/computer parallel processor of the World Team Strategy
Bulletin Board to kick into overdrive!
Irina
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/
Check out Irina's SMART-FAQ (Up-to-date analysis and downloads by and
for the World Team)
http://www.smartchess.com/SmartChessOnline/SmartChessOnline/archive/MSNKasparov/the_game.htm
ADDENDUM
Welcome back, Etienne. Felicitations sur ta victoire dans le Championnat de la France.
My congratulations and my thanks are extended to the following (in no
particular order) who contributed so brilliantly to analysis sessions
both on and off the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board during the
weekend. My apologies in advance for any important omissions or
misspellings: "IM2429", "HC BSB", Ken Regan, Brian McCarthy, GM Chess
School, Duncan Suttles, Ross Amann, "Spy49", "steni", "Oystein", Otto
ter Haar, Michel Gagne, Computer Chess Team, David Koval, Giorgi
Kacheishvili, and Ron Henley. Their work (and many others) towards the
"World Team" concept help me to make my recommendations with confidence
(and a sense of relief!). My additional "thank you" is extended to
someone who wishes to remain anonymous - who cancelled his vacation in
order to maintain the World Team's "SMART-FAQ".
PAHTZ MOVE 36 COMMENTARY
Nb4 to Kasparov's g4
36....b2 is losing after 37.g5 Nb4 38.g6 Nd3 39.h6 b1Q 40.Rxb1 Nxf4 41.Re1+ Be5
42.g7 Kf7 43. Rg1 (Danny King).
But I think The World can play 36....Nb4 37.g5 Nd3 38.g6?! Nxf4 39. Rxf4 b2 40. Rf1
Bg7 41.Kg2 Kd5 and now White has two possibilities:
42.Rb1 Ke6 43.Kg3 Kf5 with equality or
42.Kg3 Kc4 43.Kg4 Bh6 leaving The World better off.
I think White must play 38.h6 instead of 38.g6, then it follows:
38....Nxf4 39.Rxf4 b2 40. Rf1 Be3 41.h7 Bd4 42.Kg2 with White in a better position.
FELECAN MOVE 36 COMMENTARY
b2 to Kasparov's g4.
My next recommendation is 36...b2 because we are further advancing our
passed pawn forcing white's rook to play defensively. This move is combined
with king's maneuver e6-f7-g8 in order to stop white's pawns from queening;
I do not like the other option, of moving the king on the queenside to
support the passed pawn(s) and hope to sac the knight for white's passed
pawn(s) because if something goes wrong after white's 37.h6 black position
would be lost immediately and without a chance.
BACROT MOVE 36 COMMENTARY
b2 to Kasparov's g4
The World must push the pawn on b3 to b2. After Kasparov's next move, there will be many possibilities. But today, there is only one.
DANNY KING MOVE 36 COMMENTARY
It's crunch time. Garry's second passed pawn rolls up the board, joining
its comrade in the march to the eighth rank. If Black isn't careful, the
peasants will have their day.
Before we look into the World's options, it is worth noting again the
significance of Garry's amazing move 35 Kh1. All is revealed in the
following variation: 36...b2 37 g5 Nb4 38 g6 Nd3 39 h6 Nxf4 40 g7 Bxg7 41
hxg7 Kf7 42 Rxf4+ Kxg7 43 Rb4 Kf6 44 Kg2 and White wins.
Now let me try to explain! Black pushes with 36...b2, getting a step closer
to the queening square. 37 g5. Garry pushes his own pawn. The b-pawn cannot
move forward because of White's rook, so Black needs to bring the knight in
to provide support, therefore 37...Nb4. White pushes the pawn again with 38
g6, and Black throws the knight in with 38...Nd3, threatening the bishop.
This is the critical moment. White's bishop is attacked, but, instead of
moving it, he just advances a pawn again with 39 h6, and when the knight
captures 39...Nxf4, the pawns shuffle on (40 g7) and White is winning. IF
White's king had been standing on g2 in this variation, then Black would
have captured the bishop with CHECK. White would have had to waste a move
to get out of check, and Black would have been winning.
So, to avoid a check, thus gaining one move in a critical line, Garry
played his king into the corner a couple of moves ago rather than to the
predicted g2. Subtle and deep.
Now, let's consider Black's possible options. Not the line above, that is
clear (I believe 36...b2 is simply losing). I have been considering two
possible moves: 36...Nb4 or 36...Kd5.
First 36...Nb4. In my commentary two days ago, I gave the line 37 g5 Nd3 38
g6 Nxf4 39 Rxf4 b2 40 Rf1 as winning for White. On closer examination,
however, I find it is not that simple. Black starts with 40...Bg7 to stop
the pawns. White advances the king up the board to support the pawns: 41
Kg2, and now it all depends whether Black can set up some kind of blockade
to hold a draw. Needs careful examination. However, this may all be
irrelevant as 38 h6 looks better than 38 g6. In that case it isn't so easy
to blockade the pawns.
Alternatively, there is 36...Kd5. It looks slightly mad to move the king
away from White's advancing pawns, but if it cannot cross the line of the
rook on f1 to hinder them anyway, then why not? The king might support the
b-pawn, and also makes way for Black's e-pawn to advance. That's the theory
anyway. This has been much discussed on the bulletin boards, but, in my
opinion, it doesn't quite hang together. Perhaps you can find a way to make
it work...?
To sum up, these are the options as I see them: 36...Nb4, or 36...Kd5. It's
your choice. I do not exaggerate when I say that the World is fighting for
its life. Make the wrong decision here and the game could be over.
See you in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) where I will
be discussing the position as well as answering more general chess
questions.
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MOVE 37
Voting Results
e7-e6 54.56%
e7-e5 35.44%
b3-b2 4.20%
c6-d8 1.43%
c6-b4 0.85%
KRUSH MOVE 37 COMMENTARY
E6 to Kasparov’s g5
I recommend the World plays the move 37…e6 (Pawn on e7 to e6)
SUMMARY
As expected, the World Champion has played the aggressive 37.g5. The position is complicated and difficult, and in this instance, I believe that the move 37…e6 is our best chance. Alas, overnight analysis sessions suggest Black will have severe difficulties even with this move.
Black intends the MANEUVER Nc6-e7-f5. The move 37…e6 does not block the a1-h8 LONG DIAGONAL with the e-pawn (as would be the case with the inferior 37…e5), and thus the mobility of Black's important DARK SQUARED BISHOP is NOT impeded. The alternatives 37…b2 or 37…e5 have been shown to practically LOSE BY FORCE. In my Analysis Section, I will present a synopsis of the fine work completed by many World Team analysts on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board.
If you are only a casual visitor and voter during the "Kasparov versus The World" match, I would strongly urge you to every so often pay a visit to the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board. There you will be able to witness for yourself the remarkable fusion of ideas and analysis that make that arena arguably our most important resource in this battle. The World Team Strategy Bulletin Board is a cauldron of creativity unparalleled in the history of chess, and participation in that forum been the highlight of this event for me.
ANALYSIS
I am posting this analysis created by the World Team, as I feel it is fitting that its incredible efforts on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board should not be forgotten.
A) 37…b2 LOSES
The move 37...b2 (with the idea of stopping the maneuver Bf4-c1 by White), LOSES.
After 38.g6 (38.h6 Nd8 39.g6 transposes) 38...Nd8 (if 38...e5 39.Bg5, or 38...Ke6 39.h6 b1=Q 40.Rxb1 Kf6 41.g7 Kf7 42.Rxb7, or 38...Ke4 39.h6 b1=Q 40.Rxb1 Kxf4 41.g7, and White is winning) 39.Be3 (39.h6 Ne6 40.Be3 Be5 transposes) 39...Be5 (Forced) 40.h6 Ne6 41.Bg5 (A move which so often breaks the back of the Black blockade) 41...Ng7 (A spectacular idea to hinder the advance of White's dynamic duo - conceived on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board. Sadly, this remarkable concept just falls short of holding Black's position. If instead 41...Ke4 42.Bxe7 Kd3 43.Bf8 Kc2 44.g7 Nxg7 45.Bxg7, and White wins) 42.hxg7 (42.h7!?) 42...Bxg7 43.Bxe7, and now:
A1) 43...b5 44.Kg2, with,
A1a) 44...b4 45.Kg3 Kc4 (45...b3 46.Kg4, wins for White) 46.Bxd6 b3 47.Ba3, and White wins.
A1b) 44...Kc4 45.Bxd6 Kb3 46.Kf3 Ka2 47.Ke4 b1=Q+ 48.Rxb1 Kxb1 49.Kf5 Kc2 50.Ke6 Kd3 51.Kf7 Bd4 52.Bf8 Ke4 53.Bg7, transposing to the winning endgame for White shown in Variation A2.
A2) 43...Kc4 44.Bxd6 Kb3 45.Kg2 Ka2 46.Kf3 b1=Q 47.Rxb1 Kxb1 48.Ke4 Kc2 49.Kf5! Kd3 50.Ke6 Ke4 (50...Kc4 51.Be5 Bh6 52.Kf7 b5 53.Bf4, and White wins) 51.Kf7 Bd4 52.Bf8 b5 (or 52...Kf5 53.Bg7 Be3 54.Bc3 Bh6 55.Bb4 b5 56.Ba3, winning for White) 53.Bg7 Bxg7 54.Kxg7 b4 55.Kf8 b3 56.g7 b2 57.g8=Q b1=Q 58.Qh7+, winning by skewering Black's new Queen. A brutal albeit elegant finish.
B) 37…e5 LOSES
While at first glance 37...e5 may look more appealing (as Black quickly mobilizes his passed e-pawn) Black is LOST after 38.Bc1! For example:
B1) 38...e4 39.g6 e3 (39...Ne7 40.Bg5, or 39...Nb4 40.h6, win for White) 40.h6 e2 (40...Ne7 41.g7 b2 42.Bxe3, and White wins) 41.Re1 Ne7 42.g7 b2 43.Bxb2 Bxb2 44.Rxe2 Bxg7 45.hxg7 Ng8 46.Re8 Nh6 47.Rh8, and White wins.
B2) 38...b2 (Here, White sacrifices his Bishop to eliminate the Black b-pawn, and then forces through his kingside pawns) 39.Bxb2 Bxb2 40.h6 e4 (or 40...Ne7 41.Rf6 e4 42.h7 Bxf6 43.gxf6 Ng6 44.f7, and White wins. 40...Ke6 loses to 41.Rf6+, and 40...Nd8 fails to 41.g6) 41.g6 Ne7 42.g7 e3 (or 42...Ke6 43.Rf8! - winning for White) 43.Rf7 Bxg7 44.Rxg7 Nf5 45.h7 e2 (45...Nxg7 46.h8=Q e2 47.Qg8+ and White wins) 46.Rg1, winning for White - another variation that highlights Kasparov's fiendish 35.Kh1.
B3) 38...Ne7 39.Rf7! Ke6 40.Rf6+, and now:
B3a) 40...Kd5 41.h6! b2 (or 41...e4 42.h7 Bxf6 43.gxf6 Ng6 44.f7, splicing the Black Knight and winning) 42.Bxb2 Bxb2 43.h7, winning for White.
B3b) 40...Kd7 41.Ba3 b2 42.Rf1, and now:
B3b1) 42...Be3 43.g6 Bc1 44.Bxb2! Bxb2 45.g7 Ke6 46.Rf8, wins for White.
B3b2) 42...Nf5 43.Kh2! Ke6 44.h6 e4 (44...Ne7 45.Rf6+, and 44...Ne3 45.Rb1 Nc4 46.Bxb2! Nxb2 47.g6, win for White) 45.Rb1 Kf7 46.Bxb2 Kg6 47.Kh3, and White wins.
B3b3) 42...e4 43.Rb1 Nf5 44.h6 Nh4 45.Bxb2 Bxb2 46.Rxb2, and White wins.
C) 37…Ke4 LOSES
The move 37...Ke4? loses to 38.g6 Nd8 (or 38...b2 39.Bg5, and White wins) 39.h6 Ne6 40.Bg5, winning for White.
D) 37…e6 (My Recommendation to My Teammates) - BLACK'S POSITION IS DIFFICULT
Black's idea with the move 37…e6 is to relocate his Knight on c6 to the f5-OUTPOST (via e7 - a square cleared by the move 37…e6). From f5, the Knight can assist in BLOCKADING the enemy passed pawns, or in some eventualities offer itself in sacrifice to stop the White passed pawns. On d5, the Black King remains close to the precious passed pawn on b3, and is ready to assist in the creation of threats to PROMOTE the Black b-pawn (with MANEUVERS such as Kd5-c4-b3-a2, or Kd5-c4-b3-c2, or Kd5-c4-d3-c2, for example). Even so, the most recent analysis on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board indicates that Black's position is very difficult, as we have unearthed more of Kasparov's deep preparation.
PAHTZ MOVE 37 COMMENTARY
e5 to Kasparov's g5
I would play e7-e5. Then the knight on c6 can move to e7 and stop the White
pawns.
FELECAN MOVE 37 COMMENTARY
e6 to Kasparov's g5
The best available move for The World in this position is 37...e6! to move the
knight on the kingside and at the same time to keep the long diagonal a1-h8
open for the bishop while providing a strong post for the knight on f5.
Black's plan is to sack his knight for the most dangerous (advanced) White pawn
and afterwards to run his king on c2 to queen his "b" pawn.
If The World will complete this plan entirely, it should be able to maintain an equal, balanced game; but if The World
fails to either sack his knight at the right time or to queen his pawn,
White's rook will cruise between a bunch of weak Black pawns. Right now
The World's position is promising, but it can dramatically change in a
matter of moves.
BACROT MOVE 37 COMMENTARY
e6 to Kasparov's g5
I recommend that The World Team play e6. The main two lines after that would be: 38 g6...Ne7 39 e1...b2 40 Bxd6...b1(Q) 41 Rxb1...Kxd6 42 Rxb7...Nf5 43 Kh2...Ng7=
and: 38 g6...Ne7 39 Bg5...Nf5 40 Kg2...b2 41 h6...Nxh6 42 Bxh6...Kc4 43 g7...Bxg7 44.Bxg7...d5=
DANNY KING MOVE 37 COMMENTARY
Instead of advancing the b-pawn again, the World chose to play the king
forward to d5. This has the merit of freeing the way for the e-pawn to
advance, which in turn clears the e7 square enabling the knight to hop over
to the kingside to try to blockade the h and g pawns.
In reply Garry nudged the g-pawn forward again. Those connected passed
pawns look menacing. Anyone remember an old video game called Space
Invaders? I spent an alarmingly large chunk of my youth attempting to stop
those little critters from shuffling down the screen to destroy me. Now the
Champ's pawns have brought the horror of it back. What can be done to
prevent their advance?
As I see it, it is a bit late to play 37...b2 now; it will have to wait for
a move or so. In that case White's pawns would just creep forward again,
and that would be that. I think there are only two serious options for the
World: 37...e5, or 37...e6. Both clear the way for Black's knight to come
to e7, delaying the advance of White's pawns on the kingside.
Determining which option is best requires seriously deep calculation. If
you aren't up for that, then check out the analysts' recommendations: you
might be surprised at their conclusions.
I won't be in the Zone theatre chat room tonight as I'm returning to
London, but I will be there on Friday, same time, same place, so see you
then!
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MOVE 38
Voting Results
c6-e7 90.80%
e6-e5 3.94%
b3-b2 2.17%
c6-e5 1.06%
c6-b4 0.31%
KRUSH MOVE 38 COMMENTARY
Ne7 to Kasparov's h6
I recommend the World plays the move 38...Ne7 (Knight on c6 to e7)
The World Champion has advanced one of his PASSED pawns (38.h6), inching
it nearer to PROMOTION. Without delay, we must play 38...Ne7, to
relocate our Knight to the BLOCKADE SQUARE on g6. From its OUTPOST on
g6, the Black Knight impedes both of White's passed pawns - it blocks
the path of White's g-pawn, and covers the h8-square (the promotion
square for White's h-pawn). Black must not delay in establishing this
blockade. Once again, the World must resist the temptation of falling
into the trap of too rashly pushing its b-pawn to b2, for after the
blunder 38...b2?? White wins easily with 39.g6 Ne7 (too late!) 40.g7.
Therefore, our move 38...Ne7 seems FORCED.
PAHTZ MOVE 38 COMMENTARY
Ne7 to Kasparov's h6
This is the only move we should make in this position. Our knight must try to stop the White
pawns. From the square e7 the knight controls the square g6.
FELECAN MOVE 38 COMMENTARY
Ne7 to Kasparov's h6
After White's 38th move, The World is virtually forced to play 38...Nc6-e7 in
order to stop the move g5-g6 from being played. Black is following the
plan started at Move 36, where the king moves to the queenside to support
the "b" pawn while the knight is directed to the kingside to keep White's
pawn(s) from queening.
BACROT MOVE 38 COMMENTARY
Ne7 to Kasparov's h6
The World Champion pushed the right pawn 38.h6! ,so now we have to block White's passed pawns by 38...Ne7. The game might continue
in this way:
39.Rd1...Ng6? 40.Bxd6...b2 41.Ba3...Ke4 42.Rb1, winning for White.
OR: 39...b2 40.Bxd6 b1=Q 41.Rxb1...Kxd6 42.Rxb7 with a big advantage for White.
OR: 39...e5 40.Be3... Kc4 41.Bxd4... exd4 42.Kg2 b2 43.Kf3... Kc3 44.h7... Ng6 45.Ke4... Kc2 46.Rh1... d3 47.Kf5... d2 48.Kxg6... d1=Q 49.Rxd1... Kxd1 50.h8=Q b1=Q+ 51.Kh6, with very good winning chances for White even withone pawn less, because White's g pawn is very far along.
The best chance in this line is probably 48...b1=Q 49.Rxb1... Kxb1 50.h8=Q... d1=Q, after which White is in a better position.
DANNY KING MOVE 38 COMMENTARY
For the last three moves all Garry has done is push those pawns down the
board. Is this turning into an obsession for him? Well, if it meant that at
the end of the march one of those pawns were to become a queen then you
would focus on that task too! An extra queen would give White an
overwhelming superiority in forces.
The situation has become critical for Black. Although the bishop on d4 is
doing an excellent job, two connected pawns is too much for it to handle.
It needs some support if those pawns are to be stopped and there is only
one way to do that. If you are not sure how, then take another close look
at Black's last move, 37...e6; that should provide a big clue. And, if all
else fails, check out the analysis of the World coaches. I believe we are
going to see unanimity today.
Yesterday, here in London, Garry gave a press conference to report on
progress in the game so far. He was understandably reluctant to go into
detail on the current position for fear of giving his ideas away, but he
made the intriguing comment that 'Mathematically it is impossible to prove
a win for White, but at the same time it is impossible to prove a draw for
Black...'
In other words, World, there is everything to play for! We have
confirmation from the horse's mouth that White has the better chances here,
but there is still a long way to go, and, if Black plays accurately, a draw
might be achieved. That, I believe, would represent a tremendous success
for the World.
If you are interested in hearing more of Garry's comments and views from
the press conference, then join me in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST
(10pm London) where I will also be discussing the current position.
Danny King
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MOVE 39
Voting Results
e6-e5 82.11%
e7-g6 6.91%
b3-b2 4.79%
e7-f5 2.74%
d5-e4 1.59%
KRUSH MOVE 39 COMMENTARY
e5 to Kasparov's Rd1
SUMMARY
With his last move (39.Rd1), the World Champion places our powerful Bishop on d4 in a PIN, and exerts pressure on our pawn on d6 (along the d-FILE with his Rook on d1, and along the f4-d6 DIAGONAL with his Bishop on f4). I am now recommending the advance of our e-pawn to e5 (this is Black's only good move in this position), attacking White's Bishop on f4 (thus neutralizing White's pressure along the f4-d6 diagonal aimed at Black's d6-point). Depending on White's reaction to this attack on his Bishop, we will then determine the best method of how to deal with the pin on our Bishop.
ANALYSIS SECTION
There are a number of weaker (and losing) continuations for Black in this position. Let's DISPOSE of them, one by one:
A) 39...b2?
White has two ways to play, both of which give him a clear winning advantage:
A1) 40.Bxd6 b1=Q (White wins after 40...Nf5 41.Ba3, or 40...Kxd6? 41.Rxd4+ Kc5 42.Rd1, etc.) 41.Rxb1 Kxd6 42.Rxb7 Ng6 43.Kg2! and White has a clear (probably winning) advantage, or;
A2) 40.Be3 b1=Q (40...e5 41.Bxd4 exd4 42.Rb1, wins for White) 41.Rxb1 Bxe3 42.Rxb7 Ng6 (42...Bxg5 loses to 43.Rb5+) 43.Rg7 Nf8 (or 43...Nh8 44.Rg8 Nf7 45.h7 Bd4 46.g6 Ng5 47.Kg2, and White wins) 44.Rg8 Nh7 45.g6 Nf6 46.h7, and White wins.
B) 39...Ng6?
White wins easily after 40.Bxd6 b2 41.Ba3 Ke4 42.Rb1.
C) 39...Ke4?
Unpinning in this manner fails after 40.Bxd6 Ng6, and now:
C1) 41.Kg2 Be3 (41...Bh8 42.Rb1, wins for White) 42.h7, and White wins, or;
C2) 41.Ba3 b2 (or 41...Be5 42.Rb1 Kf5 43.Rxb3 Kxg5 44.Bc1+, winning for White) 42.Rb1 Kf5 43.Bxb2 Bxb2 44.Rxb2 Kxg5 45.h7 Kh6 46.Rxb7, and White wins. Only pleasant choices for White in this variation.
D) 39...Nf5?
This continuation loses to 40.h7 b2 41.Be5! b1=Q 42.Rxb1 Bxe5 43.Rb5+ Kd4 44.Rxe5, etc.
So we may conclude that 39…b2, 39…Ng6, 39…Ke4, and 39…Nf5, are all BAD (Analysis by the World Team).
E) 39...e5 - My Recommendation to my Teammates
With the move e5, the World accomplishes more than a mere one-move attack on White's Bishop. Black mobilizes his passed e-pawn to generate COUNTERPLAY, and clears the e6-SQUARE - reserving an option for a MANEUVER with Kd5-e6-f5 (as circumstances allow or dictate) when the Black King can participate in the blockade of White's passed pawns. Black also remains poised to penetrate with his King to the c3- or c2-squares to assist in the advance of his own passed pawn on b3. You may ask yourself why am I now advocating the advance of our e-pawn to e5 when only two moves ago, I recommended restraint with the move 37…e6 (instead of the very weak move 37…e5?)? Circumstances have changed - previously White's Rook stood on the f-file poised to infiltrate White's position at f7 or f8. Now with White's pawns on g5 and h6 (instead of g5 and h5), and the Black Knight relocated to e7, Black's kingside blockade plan is more well defined. White's Rook is now on d1 - assigned the task of limiting the scope of Black's active Bishop, and Black does not fear an immediate dangerous incursion by the White Rook along the f-file in conjunction with White playing Bf4-c1-a3 - the idea that was so deadly against 37…e5.
So, my recommendation is 39…e5, after which the position remains in dynamic balance.
PAHTZ MOVE 39 COMMENTARY
e5 to kasparov's Rd1
If we stop the pawns with Ng6, Kasparov would play 40. Bxd6 and win a pawn,
because after Kxd6, White can take the bishop on d4 (Rxd4). So we should
attack the bishop with e6-e5 and after 40. Be3 we can follow with 40... Kc4
41. Bxd4... cxd4 42. Kg2... b2 43. Kf3... Kc3 and The World has a little hope in this
unclear position.
FELECAN MOVE 39 COMMENTARY
e5 to Kasparov's Rd1
In this position The World has many options but few seem to be sufficient; one
of them, the one that I like best, is 39...e5. This move eliminates
White's threat of Bxd6, defends the bishop on d4 and advances another pawn.
White's reply at 39...e5 may be either 40.Bf4-e3, to trade Black's powerful
bishop or 40.Bc1 to keep the bishop guarding Black's "b" pawn; in both cases
The World's best hope is a painful draw.
BACROT MOVE 39 COMMENTARY
e5 to Kasparov's Rd1
I recommend The World to go for a queen's endgame after 39...e5 40.Be3... Kc4 .
The other line 39...b2 40.Bxd6... b1=Q 41.Rxb1... Kxd6 42.Rxb7 looks very difficult for The World.
DANNY KING MOVE 39 COMMENTARY
Having swung the knight over to BLOCKADE the pawns on the kingside, the
World has achieved some temporary security. Garry must now think of a way
to try to break that blockade, while at the same time holding up Black's
passed b-pawn. Not an easy task.
The World Champion's last move, 39 Rd1, is cunning. He is PINNING the
bishop to the king; the jargon never stops! That means the bishop is unable
to move as the king would be in check from the rook. White has an immediate
threat: Bxd6, winning a pawn, as Black's king is tied to defending the
bishop on d4. There is also the possibility of playing Be3, exploiting the
pin to exchange off Black's superb bishop on d4.
At first glance, The World has two ways to meet White's immediate threats:
either 39...b2, so as to meet 40 Bxd6 with 41...b1 (Q) 42 Rxb1 Kxd6, and
Black should draw. Or, 39...e5 to prevent the bishop capturing on d6.
Throughout this complex game, it has been very difficult to go by general
rules, and that is the case here. The only way to decide which move is best
is by accurate calculation of variations - and you will find that you
cannot always rely on chess-playing computers to give you that accurate
answer. In London the other day, Garry described these computers as being a
bit like babies: 'You have to feed them the right things', and that for a
great deal of this game the RAW analysis they have produced has been
'rubbish' - it has to be refined with a human eye. Now there is food for
thought!
Join me today in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) where
I will let you know which move I favour.
Danny
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MOVE 40
Voting Results
d5-c4 79.09%
e7-g6 5.78%
e7-f5 4.31%
d5-e4 4.12%
b3-b2 3.33%
KRUSH MOVE 40 COMMENTARY
Kc4 to Kasparov's Be3
I recommend The World plays the move 40…Kc4 (King on d5 to c4)
SUMMARY
With his last move (40.Be3), the World Champion gave himself the option of
forcibly exchanging Bishops. I am now recommending the move 40…Kc4, unpinning
our Bishop. After 41.Bxd4, White will succeed in exchanging Bishops, but at
a price. After 41…exd4, Black will obtain a passed pawn on the fifth rank to
accompany his already advanced b-pawn. Our analysis reveals that, in
essence, Black will be compelled to give up his Knight for one of the
White passed pawns, while White will have to give up his Rook for one
of the World's passed pawns.Subsequently, each side will PROMOTE one of
their remaining advanced passed pawns to a Queen, creating a number of
possible QUEEN ENDGAME scenarios.
ANALYSIS SECTION
Barring any surprises, it appears that the World Champion is leading us along
a path towards some interesting queen endings. After 40.Be3 Kc4 41.Bxd4 exd4
42.Kg2 (42.h7 Ng6 43.Kg2 b2 44.Kf3 Kc3 transposes) 42...b2 43.Kf3 (43.h7 Ng6
44.Kf3 Kc3 transposes to Variation A) 43…Kc3, we reach a critical branch-point
where White may continue with 44.h7 or 44.Rb1:
A) 44.h7 Ng6, and now:
A1) 45.Kg4 Kc2 46.Rh1 Nh8 47.Kf5 d3, transposing to Variation A4.
A2) 45.Ke2 Kc2 46.Rd2+ Kc3 47.Rd3+ (if 47.Rxb2 Kxb2 48.Kd3 b5 49.Kxd4 d5!
50.Kxd5 b4 51.Ke6 b3 52.Kf6 Ka3 53.Kxg6 b2 54.h8=Q b1=Q+, with a theoretical
draw) 47...Kc2 48.Rd2+ Kc3, with a draw by repetition.
A3) 45.Rh1 Kc2 46.Ke4, transposing to Variation A4.
A4) 45.Ke4 Kc2 46.Rh1 d3 47.Kf5, and now an important decision point for Black:
A4a) 47...d2 48.Kxg6 b1=Q (48...d1=Q 49.Rxd1 Kxd1 50.h8=Q b1=Q, is another
"unclear" queen ending which I shall designate as QUEEN ENDING E) 49.Rxb1 Kxb1
50.h8=Q d1=Q, transposes to QUEEN ENDING D (see below), which I think is a
draw. As the current assessment of Variation A4b2 appears to be a draw, Black
is not compelled to enter Variation A4a after 44.h7.
A4b) 47...Nh8 (an important Black alternative to be considered in this
situation) 48.g6 d2 49.g7 d1=Q! 50.Rxd1 Kxd1 51.gxh8=Q b1=Q+ 52.Ke6 Qe4+
53.Kd7 Qa4+! and now:
A4b1) 54.Ke7 Qh4+! 55.Kxd6 (Depending on where the White king goes, it is
important to give check from the correct square, for example: 55.Ke6 Qe4+! or
55.Kd7 Qa4+! or 55.Ke8 Qa4+!) 55...Qf4+ 56.Kd7 Qa4+! 57.Kc7 Qc6+ 58.Kb8 Qd6+
59.Kxb7 Qd7+, with a theoretical draw.
A4b2) 54.Kc7 d5 55.Qc3 (if 55.Qe5 Qc2+ with a draw, or 55.Kb8 Qf4+ 56.Kxb7
Qb4+ 57.Kc6 Qc4+ 58.Kd6 Qa6+ 59.Kxd5 Qb5+, with a theoretical draw, or 55.Qg8
Qc6+ 56.Kb8 Qd6+, with a draw, or 55.Qb2 Qc6+ 56.Kb8 Qd6+ 57.Kxb7 Qd7+, draw)
55...Qf4+ 56.Kxb7 (Necessary, otherwise Black picks off the White h-pawn, for
example: 56.Kc8 Qf5+, or 56.Kb6 Qh6+, with a draw) 56...Qf7+ 57.Qc7 Qe8! with
a critical queen ending (which I shall designate as QUEEN ENDING G) -
personally, I think this ending is a draw.
B) 44.Rb1 d3, and now:
B1) 45.Ke3 b5 46.h7 (or 46.Rxb2 Kxb2 47.Kxd3 d5! 48.Kd4 Ng6 49.Kxd5 b4
50.Ke6 b3 51.Kf6 Ka3 52.Kxg6 b2 53.h7 b1=Q+ 54.Kg7, with the same draw)
46...Ng6 47.Rxb2 Kxb2 48.Kxd3 d5 49.Kd4 b4 50.Kxd5 b3 51.Ke6 Ka3 52.Kf6 b2
53.Kxg6 b1=Q+ 54.Kg7, and the position is a draw.
B2) 45.h7 Ng6 46.Ke4 (if 46.Ke3 d5 47.Rxb2 Kxb2 48.Kxd3 b5 49.Kd4 b4
50.Kxd5 b3, transposing to Variation B1 with a draw) 46...Kc2 47.Rxb2+ Kxb2
48.Kf5 (if 48.Kxd3 d5 49.Kd4 b5 50.Kxd5 b4 51.Ke6 b3 52.Kf6 Ka3 53.Kxg6 b2
54.h8=Q b1=Q+, with a theoretical draw) 48...d2 49.Kxg6 d1=Q 50.h8=Q+ Kb1,
with an "unclear" and critical queen ending (QUEEN ENDING D). In this Queen
ending, Black's essential counterplay appears to consist of ramming the
d-pawn, clearing SPACE for the Black Queen - personally, I think this ending
is a draw.
Of paramount importance then is a study of QUEEN ENDING D (and perhaps to a
lesser extent QUEEN ENDING E), which White can compel with 44.Rb1. If White
avoids direct entry to QUEEN ENDING D and plays 44.h7, Black can then initiate
entry to QUEEN ENDING D or QUEEN ENDING G. I have used the same designation
for the different Queen endings as they are given in the SMART-FAQ.
Analysis by the World Team.
PAHTZ MOVE 40 COMMENTARY
Kc4 to Kasparov's Be3
White will change our strong bishop on d4. We don't have to lose time with
Ng6, the knight blockades the White pawns at this moment from e7also. The
best try is Kc4. Then The World's king can assist the b-pawn with Kc3 and Kc2.
If White then plays 41. Bxd4, The World will get another powerful pawn with
exd4 and the position seems to be in a dynamic balance.
FELECAN MOVE 40 COMMENTARY
Kc4 to Kasparov's Be3
In this position The World should advance the king on c4 to cancel the pin
on d4 and support the passed pawn(s). The game will most probably go into a
queen ending after 41.Bxd4 exd4 42.Kg2 b2 43.Kf3 Kc3 where White is in a
better position,
but The World has a good chance for a draw.
BACROT MOVE 40 COMMENTARY
Kc4 to Kasparov's Be3
I recommend that The World move its king 40....Kc4 to help the "b" pawn move
toward queening.
DANNY KING MOVE 40 COMMENTARY
Garry has played his bishop to e3, angling for an exchange. It cannot be
taken as Black's bishop on d4 is PINNED to the king by the rook on d1: it
is simply illegal for the bishop to be taken as the king would find itself
in check. Why has the World Champion played this move?
Throughout the entire game Black's bishop, situated on the so-called 'LONG
DIAGONAL', has had a profound effect on the game. (The long diagonal is the
name of the diagonal running across the middle of the board. A bishop
posted on this diagonal not only influences the centre, but two corners of
the board as well). Black's bishop has been able to hold up White's PASSED
PAWNS, while guiding its own b-pawn on the other side of the board.
There is no comparison between the two prelates. White's bishop has been on
an inferior diagonal for most of the game, moving in the shadow of its
counterpart in the centre. For that reason the World Champion is anxious to
exchange, and that is why he embarked on a pinning manoeuvre with 39 Rd1.
Once the bishop exchange takes place, White's pawns will stand a better
chance of making a touchdown.
What should The World be doing in reply? Continuing with counterplay on the
queenside. The most natural way to do that would be to push the b-pawn
again, but that would fail: 40...b2 41 Bxd4 exd4 42 Rb1, and the crucial
passed pawn is lost. That is an immediate effect of the bishop exchange.
The b-pawn needs to be supported before it can advance again. There is only
one sensible way of doing that. If you are not sure how, then check out the
analysts' recommendations. I believe we are going to see unanimity again!
See you in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) for a
discussion of the position.
Danny King
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MOVE 41
Voting Results
e5-d4 97.52%
e7-g6 0.97%
e5-e4 0.42%
e7-f5 0.28%
b3-b2 0.19%
KRUSH MOVE 41 COMMENTARY
exd4 to Kasparov's Bxd4
I recommend the World plays the move 41...exd4 (Pawn on e5 captures
Bishop on d4. Our move is FORCED - as we must recapture the Bishop.
Irina
PAHTZ MOVE 41 COMMENTARY
e5xd4 to Kasparov's Be3xd4
This is the only move, we can do. We must take the bishop back.
Elizabeth
FELECAN MOVE 41 COMMENTARY
exd4 to Kasparov's Bxd4
The World must take back the bishop on d4 and prepare for a queen ending
after Kc4-c3-c2,pawn to b3-b2-b1Q and d3-d2-d1Q when white is better but The
World still has its chance for a draw.
BACROT MOVE 41 COMMENTARY
exd4 to Kasparov's Bxd4
Of course, the world must take the bishop with 41...exd4
DANNY KING MOVE 41 COMMENTARY
No choice here. The World must recapture the bishop with the pawn. Then we
get into a situation where the objective for both sides is quite clear:
Black is going to use his king to support the passed d and b pawns; and
White will use his king to force one of his pawns home on the other side of
the board. A pawn race is about to begin.
The king becomes a powerful member of your army when there are fewer pieces
on the board. It reminds me of a rampant elephant: its speed and therefore
its scope is limited, but at short range it is a force to be reckoned with.
At the moment, White's rook can prevent the pawns from queening all on its
own; but when Black's king arrives on the scene the rook won't be able to
put up much resistance. Likewise, White's king is going to cause Black's
knight some problems. It will be a question of who gets there first.
We are entering a transitionary phase in the game. I believe the next few
moves are essentially forced - for both sides.
If you would like to find out where all this is leading to, then join me
today in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London). See you then.
Danny
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MOVE 42
Voting Results
b3-b2 88.08%
e7-g6 4.09%
c4-c3 3.41%
d4-d3 2.18%
e7-f5 1.03%
KRUSH MOVE 42 COMMENTARY
b2 to Kasparov's Kg2
I recommend the World plays the move 42...b2 (Pawn on b3 to b2)
Finally, we can advance our passed b-pawn to b2. Black must prepare to
force White to give up his Rook for one of our advanced passed pawns, as
White is preparing to penetrate with his King and assist with the
advance of his own passed pawns.
Irina
PAHTZ MOVE 42 COMMENTARY
b2 to Kasparov's Kg2
With his move Kg2, Garry centralized his king and cleared the square h1 for his
rook. With Rd1-h1 he want to support his h-pawn. So, we don't have to lose
time. With b3-b2 our pawn is ready for promotion and we have chances to hold
the balance.
Elizabeth
FELECAN MOVE 42 COMMENTARY
b2 to Kasparov's Kg2
Right now, The World should advance the pawn with 42...b3-b2 in order
to force White to give up his rook for the new queen. Afterwards, The
World would get a queen from the "d" pawn as soon as possible, and play the
resulting queen ending: 43.Kf3...Kc3 44.h7... Ng6 45.Ke4... Kc2 46.Rh1...
d3. (45...b2-b1Q would have been too early, since the "d" pawn lacks the king's
protection) 47.Kf5 and after 47...b2-b1Q White is forced to give up his
rook. The position resulting from this line may be considered as equal,
though White's "g" pawn is more advanced than Black's "d" pawn.
BACROT MOVE 42 COMMENTARY
b2 to Kasparov's Kg2
Moves are still quite forced, and The World has to push 42...b2.
DANNY KING MOVE 42 COMMENTARY
Garry begins the steady advance of his king up the board ready to support
his passed pawns. We have a race on our hands: Black’s king is doing exactly
the same on the other side of the board. The prize at the end of the race is a
new queen, the most powerful chess piece on the board, so whichever side gets
there first will have an enormous advantage.
Who is going to win this race? In such situations there is simply no substitute
for exact calculation, guess work will not do. So let's begin with 42...b2,
then White's king will advance, 43 Kf3, then Blacks king moves to support the
b-pawn, 43...Kc3...Well, I don’t want to spoil anything for you... I'll let you
continue the variation. Just remember one thing: every move counts, losing
one move in the race could make the difference between drawing the game or
losing instantly. Keep your eye on the main goal in the position, the promotion
of the passed pawns.
By the way, there was a comment in my chat the other day: why was Kasparov’s
35th move Kh1 such a great idea if he is just having to move the king out to g2
now? Hasn’t he lost a move? The point is this: he would never have got into the
present situation if it hadn’t been for the brilliant move 35 Kh1. Moving the
king to g2 at that time would have led the game down a completely different
path, one which Garry felt would not have been as good as the current position.
I'm rather busy this weekend, so I won't be holding the chat tonight: I'll be
back there on Monday. Good luck!
Danny
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MOVE 43
Voting Results
c4-c3 88.94%
d4-d3 3.17%
e7-g6 2.79%
c4-b3 1.50%
d6-d5 1.12%
KRUSH MOVE 43 COMMENTARY
Kc3 to Kasparov's Kf3
I recommend the World plays the move 43...Kc3 (King on c4 to c3).
With the increased activity of White's King (43.Kf3), it is necessary to
further involve our King in the effort to force through our passed
pawns, therefore 43...Kc3 should be our move.
PAHTZ MOVE 43 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
FELECAN MOVE 43 COMMENTARY
Kc3 to Kasparov's Kf3
The World should advance its king with 43....Kc4-c3 in order to
provide support for the "b" and "d" pawns. In this position, The World's next
moves are very predictible because they are all forced moves (the king moves
to c2, the "d" pawn arrives on d2 and the "b" pawn queens).
It will be very interesting to see whether Garry has something new (and better!) in
the queen ending which results after these consecutive forced moves, or if the
game is going to end with a long and placid draw.
BACROT MOVE 43 COMMENTARY
Kc3 to Kasparov's Kf3.
The series of forced moves continue, and now The World has to play 43...Kc3.
Unfortuately, I may not be able to help you for the next three moves. I am
playing a match with GM Alexander Beliavsky in Albert (France) from September
14 to 19. See you next week and Good Luck, World Team!
DANNY KING MOVE 43 COMMENTARY
The World's b-pawn is now just one square away from promoting to a queen. At
the moment, however, it cannot do so safely as White's rook would simply take
it, so the king needs to be brought up in support. White cannot prevent Black's
plan, so he needs to concentrate on pushing his own pawns through. That's why
Garry has advanced his king one square further. He is also going to use his
king to support his pawns in the race to get a new queen.
The World Champion calculated this race many moves ago, and he knows exactly
where it is heading: to a queen and pawn ending. It is not these moves that he
has been analysing over the past few days (though of course he must check them
carefully), but rather a position about twenty moves down the line. We are
watching his thoughts unfold in slow motion.
But in the meantime, let's keep our eyes on the here and now. The World's task
is to support the pawns with the king - go to it!
I'm back in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) today if you
would like to discuss the position.
Danny
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MOVE 44
Voting Results
e7-g6 97.47%
c3-c2 1.16%
b2-b1Q 0.31%
b2-b1N 0.11%
d4-d3 0.11%
KRUSH MOVE 44 COMMENTARY
Ng6 to Kasparov's h7
I recommend the World plays the move 44...Ng6 (Knight on e7 to g6).
Our move is FORCED - to prevent White from immediately promoting his
h-pawn to a Queen.
Today, I am leaving for Armenia to compete in the World Women's Junior
(U-20) Championship. If possible, I will try to relay my recommendations
by Internet or dictate them by phone to my friends at SmartChess Online
(depending on my schedule) who will keep apprised on the moves in the
game. Due to my tournament commitments, I will be unable to spend any
time on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board for about three weeks.
PAHTZ MOVE 44 COMMENTARY
Ng6 to Kasparov's h7
We must stop the White pawn from advancing. The only move for The World is Ng6.
FELECAN MOVE 44 COMMENTARY
Ng6 to Kasparov's h7
The World is forced to play 44...Ne7-g6 in order to stop the "h" pawn from
queening. Next, The World's monarch will move to c2 and transform the "b" pawn.
White's plan is to drive away the Black knight from g6 and then queen one of
his pawns; The World's plan is to set up to a queen endgame where White is unable
to transform his second pawn because of the perpetual check threat.
BACROT MOVE 44 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 44 COMMENTARY
Garry's passed h-pawn is just one square away from becoming a queen. What
can be done? There is only one sensible option: the knight must move over
to cover the queening square.
The only other continuation worth considering would be to counter-attack
with the king: 44...Kc2, but this loses immediately to 45 h8 (Q) Kxd1 46
Qxd4+, and the new queen storms into town to clean up the opposition. In
other words there is only one playable move for the World here: 44...Ng6,
to stop Garry's pawn.
When the knight moves over, a path is created (via e4 and f5) for the white
king to advance up the board, with the aim of dislodging the knight from
its position. The World cannot prevent this; instead it must concentrate on
forcing through its own passed pawns on the other side of the board. The
race is in full swing!
See you today in the Zone theatre chat room at 2pm PST (10pm London) if you
would like to discuss the position.
Danny
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MOVE 45
Voting Results
c3-c2 89.31%
d4-d3 4.73%
b7-b5 1.47%
b2-b1Q 1.44%
d6-d5 1.22%
KRUSH MOVE 45 COMMENTARY
Kc2 to Kasparov's Ke4
I recommend the World plays the move 45...Kc2 (King on c3 to c2)
The World Champion revealed his intent with his last move (45.Ke4) - to
break the blockade of his kingside pawns by marching his King to f5 to
attack our Knight. With the move 45...Kc2, we in turn attack the White
piece that has been delegated the responsibility of fighting against our
passed pawns.
PAHTZ MOVE 45 COMMENTARY
Kc2 to Kasparov's Ke4
My move is 45...Kc2
I do not know another good move. The World can attack the rook on d1 with its king to win more time as we move toward a queens' endgame.
FELECAN MOVE 45 COMMENTARY
Kc2 to Kasparov's Ke4
Right now, The World shoud consider advancing its king on c3 to c2 in order
to support the "b" pawn to queen, win tempo by attacking the rook and
prepare the way for the "d" pawn. White is forced to move his rook before
advancing his king on f5; so White's most probable move would be 46.Rh1 After that, The
World could respond by pushing the "d" pawn further with 46...d3.
After 47.Kf5... b1Q 48.Rxb1... Kxb1 49.Kxg6... d2 50.h8Q... d1Q the game will become
a queens' endgame in which White's chances are slightly better than The World's because of his
advanced "g" pawn.
BACROT MOVE 45 COMMENTARY
Our brilliant young Chess Analyst Etienne Bacrot, fresh from his stunning victory at the French National Championships, is now engaged in a match with GM Alexander Beliavsky in Albert (France). His struggle against one of the world's greatest players will last through Sunday. We send Etienne all our good wishes for the best chess that he can play.
DANNY KING MOVE 45 COMMENTARY
Garry's king steams up the board ready to dislodge the knight on g6, and so
force through one of the pawns to the queening square. The knight has
performed sterling work in holding the pawns, but it will not be able to
defend when the king arrives on the scene. There is only one thing to be
done for Black: keep going on the other side of the board.
I find Garry's last move, 45 Ke4, intriguing from a psychological
viewpoint. Let me try to explain why. For quite a few moves now, it has
been clear that this race of the king and pawns will result in a queen and
pawn ending; but along the route of this race, both sides have options
which would give rise to slightly different kinds of ending.
Let me give a couple of examples by continuing from the current position:-
45...Kc2 46 Rh1 d3 47 Kf5 Nh8 48 g6 d2 49 g7 d1(Q) 50 Rxd1 Kxd1 51 gxh8 (Q)
b1 (Q) +. That is one possible queen and pawn ending at the end of the
race: White has a far advanced h-pawn, Black must keep checking in the hope
that he can force a draw -or else White will get another queen.
Returning to the current position, another possibility is 45...Kc2 46 Rh1
d3 47 Kf5 b1 (Q) - rather than 47...Nh8 in the variation above - 48 Rxb1
(Q) Kxb1 49 Kxg6 d2 50 h8(Q) d1 (Q). Another queen and pawn ending, but
this time White has a g-pawn, which can shield the king from checks better
than an h-pawn, but is not as well advanced.
There are also other possible queen and pawn endings which can be reached,
slightly different from these two. Note that it is The World which can make
the choice here of which type of ending to go for. And that is why I find
Garry's last move intriguing, because, if he had wanted to, he could have
FORCED the form of ending in the last variation with 45 Rb1, instead of his
move 45 Ke4. Does that mean he is dissatisfied with the 'g-pawn ending'?
Whatever the reason, very shortly the World is going to be presented with
the difficult decision of which kind of queen and pawn ending to play into.
There are good drawing chances in most of them, but which one offers the
best is hard to say. As we get nearer to that point, the choices will
become clearer.
For the moment though, support the b-pawn!
Danny
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MOVE 46
Voting Results
d4-d3 88.84%
b2-b1 8.35%
g6-h8 0.95%
b7-b5 0.45%
d6-d5 0.39%
KRUSH MOVE 46 COMMENTARY
d3 to Kasparov's Rh1
I recommend the World plays the move 46...d3 (Pawn on d4 to d3)
"Passed Pawns must be Pushed!" We should not waste any time in advancing our passed d-pawn in order to guarantee the acquisition of a (permanent)NEW Black Queen! Therefore 46...d3 should be our move. After 46...d3,
White's most logical continuation is 47.Kf5 (attacking Black's Knight on g6), when the game could continue 47...b1=Q 48.Rxb1 Kxb1 49.Kxg6 d2
50.h8=Q d1=Q, with a complicated Queen ending (known as "Endgame D" in
the SMART-FAQ).
PAHTZ MOVE 46 COMMENTARY
d3 to Kasparov's Rh1
I would play 46...pawn to d3, but I think it will be difficult for The World to reach a draw.
46...b1(Queen) is a mistake, because White wins after 47.Rb1... Kb1: 48.Kd4. After 46...d3 follow 47.Kf5...b1(Queen) 48.Rb1...K:b1 49.Kg6... d2 50.h8(Queen)...d1(Queen) with better chances for White to win. (47...Nh8?! 48.g6...d2 49.g7... d1(Q) 50.Rd1... K:d1 51.gh8(Q)... b1(Q)+ and White should win.
FELECAN MOVE 46 COMMENTARY
d3 to Kasparov's Rh1.
The best available move for The World right now it is 46...d4-d3;
46...b2-b1(Q) would be premature due to White's 47.Rxb1... Kxb1 48.Kxd4, and the
ending would be very difficult for The World. The move 46...d4-d3 improves The World's
position and waits for the right moment to queen the pawn(s).
BACROT MOVE 46 COMMENTARY
Our brilliant young Chess Analyst Etienne Bacrot, fresh from his stunning victory at the French National Championships, is now engaged in a match with GM Alexander Beliavsky in Albert (France). His struggle against one of the world's greatest players will last through Sunday. We send Etienne all our good wishes for the best chess that he can play.
DANNY KING MOVE 46 COMMENTARY
Over the last two moves, The World advanced its king to attack the rook; prompting Garry to send the rook out of harm's way into the corner. As I mentioned two days ago, Black's knight provides a temporary blockade to White's pawns, but no more, so it is essential to continue with the advance of the pawns on the other side of the board.
The question you have to answer at this moment is, 'Which is better, the advance of the b or the d pawn?' This is one of those situations where there is no substitute for accurate calculation. Let's go through the process.
There are two main moves for The World to consider: 46...b1 (Q) and
46...d3. Let's consider making a queen first:
46...b1(Q) 47 Rxb1 Kxb1 48 Kxd4 (the important move), and now, if you care to calculate the pawn race, you will find that White gets there first! Let me run through it quickly: 48...b5 49 Ke4 b4 50 Kf5 b3 51 Kxg6 b2 52 h8 (Q)- and White wins.
In other words, 46...d3 is the only possible option for Black, as the
alternative simply loses. Today's choice is easy, but in two days time the World is going to be faced with a very difficult decision indeed. I'll discuss that in detail when we get there.
My next Zone theatre chat will be on Thursday 23rd September at 2pm PST. See you then if you would like to discuss the position.
Danny
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MOVE 47
Voting Results
b2-b1Q 73.62%
g6-h8 15.03%
d3-d2 8.31%
g6-e7 1.09%
b2-b1R 0.60%
KRUSH MOVE 47 COMMENTARY
b1=Q to Kasparov's Kf5
I recommend the World plays the move 47…b1=Q (Pawn on b2 to b1 with promotion to a Queen)
SUMMARY
After we promote our b-pawn with 47...b1=Q(!) White is forced to sacrifice his Rook for Black's new Queen with 48.Rxb1. The game should logically continue with 48…Kxb1 49.Kxg6 d2 50.h8=Q d1=Q, when we arrive at an endgame referred to as "Endgame D" in the World Team's SMART-FAQ. In this endgame, Black has a MATERIAL ADVANTAGE, but White's advanced g-pawn gives him enough COMPENSATION for his pawn deficit. Note that without Black pawns on the board, this position would be a theoretical draw - and so we must keep it in mind that in many circumstances it will be quite acceptable and correct for us to SACRIFICE our pawns to reach a theoretically drawn Q + P versus Q ending. That's right! We will literally dump the excess baggage (our pawns) to secure an increasingly OPEN board upon which our Queen can more readily give PERPETUAL CHECK to the World Champion's King - this idea forms a key element in Black's defensive strategy. In the game situation, White will seek to shelter his King from checks delivered by the Black Queen, while trying to advance his g-pawn further towards the g8 promotion-square. Also, in this endgame, Black has the important possibility of creating serious COUNTERPLAY with the advance of his d-pawn (and/or sometimes his b-pawn) - the threat to advance our own passed pawns can become the very catalyst required to make White eliminate our pawns while they are in transit, thus reducing the position to one that is theoretically drawn. Meantime, Black must be wary of attempts by White to improve the positioning and coordination of his King and Queen in order to shepherd the White g-pawn forward. Each and every move in this endgame must be played with the highest degree of technical precision. In the Analysis Section, I will demonstrate why I believe that alternative moves to 47...b1=Q are inferior.
Remember: To vote for 47…b1=Q, you must use the drop-down menu located above the "Register Your Move" button ("b2 b1 Queen").
ANALYSIS SECTION
Black has three main alternatives to "Endgame D" by playing different moves at move 47. However, I am NOT recommending these alternatives, as I think they are INFERIOR for Black. For example:
"ENDGAME G") After 47…Nh8(?) 48.g6 d2 49.g7 d1=Q 50.Rxd1 Kxd1 51.gxh8=Q b1=Q+, we arrive at the Queen ending known as "ENDGAME G" in the SMART-FAQ. After, the forced continuation 52.Ke6 Qe4+ 53.Kd7! Qa4+ 54.Kc7 d5, White has the strong move 55.Qg7! which allows him to return his Queen to the action, and analysis shows that White obtains a clear and probably winning advantage in the endgame (kudos to Peter Karrer). The very recent analytical findings in this particular endgame could have easily been missed if a process (for example, like some ideas that were discussed on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board) for "speeding up" the game had been introduced. This experience should serve as a warning to those who might feel impatient or who are lulled into a false sense of security by the at-first-glance "simplicity" or "boring nature" of the position! In chess, you must ALWAYS be on your guard, and we must strive to maintain our SENSE OF DANGER.
"ENDGAME PSEUDO-D") After 47…d2(?!) 48.Kxg6 b1=Q (Queening the b-pawn first) 49.h8=Q! (This is better than 49.Rxb1 Kxb1 50.h8=Q d1=Q, which transposes directly to Endgame D) 49...d1=Q 50.Rxd1 Qxd1 - we have Endgame "Pseudo-D" which is similar to Endgame D, except that Black's King stands on c2 instead of b1, and I believe the Black King is placed WORSE on c2 than on b1 as the Black King is more exposed and it can hinder the Black Queen's mobility.
"ENDGAME E") Alternatively, after 47…d2(?!) 48.Kxg6 d1=Q (Queening the d-pawn first) 49.Rxd1 Kxd1 50.h8=Q b1=Q+, gives the Queen ending known as "ENDGAME E" in the SMART-FAQ. My appraisal of this endgame for this analysis report is more subjective. I think at best this endgame would represent an inferior version of Endgame D, as the Black King looks more exposed on d1 and is further from the "distant" a1-corner. Based on my own study of Q + P vs. Q endings, it feels right to me for the Black King to be located in the area of the a1-corner (distancing itself from the White g-pawn).
In summary, I do NOT recommend the moves 47…Nh8? or 47…d2?! - in my opinion these moves represent nugatory choices for Black.
Analysis by the World Team.
Therefore, I am recommending the World Team plays the move 47…b1=Q, leading directly to the ending known as "Endgame D" on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board. In my opinion, this endgame represents Black's most desirable battleground on which to demonstrate equality. (Communicated in part from Erevan, Armenia)
PAHTZ MOVE 47 COMMENTARY
b1=Q to Kasparov's Kf5
I would play 47...b1(Q) Now we have a difficult Queen end game with bether chances for white.
It follows 48.R:b1 K:b1 49.K:g6 d2 50.h8 (Q) d1(Q)
I think our King and Queen have a bether position as the variant 47...d2 48.K:g6
d1(Q) 49.R:d1 K:d1 50.H8(Q) b1(Q)+ 51.Kh8 and now the white King has a better position for his B-Pawn.
FELECAN MOVE 47 COMMENTARY
b1=Q to Kasparov's Kf5
Right now The World should consider getting a queen with 47...b2-b1=Q, since
White's king is too far away to get to the "d3" pawn in time. With
47...b2-b1=Q the game will follow three forced consecutive moves: 48.Rxb1...
Kxb1 49.Kxg6 ...d2 50.h8=Q.. d1=Q where The World's position may be slightly inferior,
but its chances to force a draw are undeniable.
BACROT MOVE 47 COMMENTARY
b1=Q to Kasparov's Kf5
Now The World has two equal possibilities: 47...b1=Q or 47...d2. Regardless of which one, the same position will arise: 47...b1=Q 48.Rxb1... Kxb1 49.Kxg6... d2 50.h8=Q... d1=Q. I consider this queens endgame to be better for White, despite his being down a pawn, because he has advanced his "g" pawn. But The World's chances to draw are not bad.
Regarding my match against Grandmaster Beliavsky, my score was 3.5 to 2.5, losing the second game and playing five draws. I lost my chance for a comeback when I was up a pawn in the fourth game.
DANNY KING MOVE 47 COMMENTARY
On this turn, you, as part of The World Team, must make one of the most
crucial decisions of the game so far.
I will do my best to explain the options available so you can make an
informed choice. I hope you will bear with me, it is rather complex...
Garry Kasparov has just advanced his king to attack the knight on g6. This
leaves the World with these options:
(1) Move the knight (but where to?);
(2) advance the d-pawn;
(3) promote the b-pawn.
In order to determine the best option, we have to calculate each variation
accurately, assess the resulting position, then compare all three
possibilities. There is no substitute for a systematic appraisal. If you
would like to skip straight to my conclusions, then go ahead (lazy!) For
the rest of you, let's go to work:
(1) MOVE THE KNIGHT
Checking White's king with the knight would be incorrect, for instance,
47...Nh4+ 48 Kf6, and the h-pawn rolls through faster than Black's pawns.
So the only possible option is 47...Nh8, and the following line represents
best play for both sides: 48 g6 d2 49 g7 d1(Q) 50 Rxd1 Kxd1 51 gxh8(Q)
b1(Q)+ .
Queening with check is a lucky stroke for Black! With the pawn on h7,
almost at the point of turning into a new queen, White is obviously better
in this queen endgame, but the World would still have drawing chances with
a possible 'perpetual check'.
(2) ADVANCE THE D-PAWN
With the following the line the most likely: 47...d2 48 Kxg6 d1(Q) 49 Rxd1
Kxd1 50 h8(Q) b1(Q)+.
Another queen ending, but this time White has a g-pawn, and only on the 5th
rank, so, for The World, not as dangerous as the far-advanced h-pawn in the
previous variation. However, the g-pawn is able to cover White's king from
checks.
(3) PROMOTE THE B-PAWN
With the following line forced after, 47...b1(Q) 48 Rxb1 Kxb1 49 Kxg6 d2 50
h8(Q) d1(Q).
Once again, both sides have raced to get a queen. This is very similar to
the variation in (2), with the difference that Black's king stands on b1
rather than d1. Does that make a difference? Yes, a slight, but subtle one.
In these queen endings, one of White's tactics is to exchange queens using
a check, and in the middle of the board (variation 2) the king is more
vulnerable to this crafty idea.
Phew! All three options lead to queen endings where The World is fighting
for a draw, but it is very difficult to say for certain which offers the
BEST drawing chances. Let me sum up the choices before us, and on that
basis I will give you my opinion, at the very least.
CONCLUSION
Moving the knight to h8 (option 1) leads to a queen and pawn ending where
White has a far advanced pawn on h7. Promoting the b-pawn (option 3) leads
to a queen and pawn ending with a White pawn on g5. This is a slightly
superior version of option 2, so that one can be discarded at this stage.
The choice is left between option 1 and option 3. I have to say that I
would not enjoy defending against a White pawn on the 7th rank, ready to
become a queen if I were to make just one mistake. Playing chess is
stressful enough without an executioner's axe hanging over one's head.
Moreover, a few moves ago, Garry could have forced option 3, but decided
not to - he must have believed his winning chances were insufficient.
Therefore, option 3, 47...b1(Q), would be my choice.
It is going to be a long, hard, struggle to draw this game but, World, hang
on in there!
Danny
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MOVE 48
Voting Results
c2-b1 95.72%
g6-h8 1.37%
g6-e7 0.97%
d3-d2 0.68%
g6-h4 0.51%
KRUSH MOVE 48 COMMENTARY
Kxb1 to Kasparov's Rxb1
I recommend the World plays the move 48...Kxb1 (King on c2 captures Rook on b1). Our move is FORCED, as we simply must capture the Rook.
PAHTZ MOVE 48 COMMENTARY
Kxb1 to Kasparov's Rxb1
The World must take back a piece, so we have 48....Kxb1.
FELECAN MOVE 48 COMMENTARY
Kxb1 to Kasparov's Rxb1
The World is forced to capture on b1 with 48...Kc2xb1; White most probably, will capture on g6 and on the 50th move both sides will have a queen.
BACROT MOVE 48 COMMENTARY
Kxb1 to Kasparov's Rxb1
The World has to take the Rook by 48...Kxb1.
DANNY KING MOVE 48 COMMENTARY
The World was first in the race to get a new queen (hoorah!) but it has
been promptly hacked off by the World Champ's rook (howl!). There is only one decent response: to capture the rook with the king. (Instead, checking with the knight would allow White to make a queen a crucial move earlier, with fatal consequences for The World.).
All is going according to plan. After the World captures the rook, Garry captures the knight, then it's a photo-finish to get the pawns to the eighth rank for a new queen. At that point the next phase of the game will begin: the queen ending. I'll look into that in detail when we arrive there, but, for the moment, the next few moves are forced.
I'll be in the Zone theatre chat room tonight at 2pm PST (10pm London) if you would like to discuss the position.
Danny
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MOVE 49
Voting Results
d3-d2 97.51%
b1-a1 0.78%
b7-b5 0.35%
b1-c2 0.16%
d6-d5 0.14%
KRUSH MOVE 49 COMMENTARY
d2 to Kasparov's Kxg6
I recommend the World plays the move 49...d2 (Pawn on d3 to d2)
"Passed Pawns Must be Pushed" - We must not waste any time in advancing
our passed d-pawn so that we can promote to a new Queen! Therefore
49...d2 should be our move.
PAHTZ MOVE 49 COMMENTARY
d2 to Kasparov's Kxg6
I would play 49...d2. It is the best move in this position.
Other moves are not advisable.
FELECAN MOVE 49 COMMENTARY
d2 to Kasparov's Kxg6
The World should push the pawn with 49...d3-d2
BACROT MOVE 49 COMMENTARY
d2 to Kasparov's Kxg6
The World must move its pawn on d3 to d2. There is no other move to consider.
DANNY KING MOVE 49 COMMENTARY
The game is following the predicted path: first The World hacked off the
rook, then Garry Kasparov butchered the knight at the other end of the
board. Having done away with those stout defenders, the way is now clear
for both sides to rush their pawns to the eighth rank for a hasty
coronation.
On this turn The World must push its pawn towards the queening square so as
not to fall behind the World Champion. He is going to get a new queen on
the next turn. Then, after Black also queens, we will be left with a
situation where, in spite of the extra pawn, The World will be fighting for
a draw as Garry's remaining pawn is already far advanced. More on this when
we arrive at the queen ending.
By any standards, this has been an extraordinary game. The turbulence of
the past forty moves is about to subside into the relative calm of an
ending with just a few pieces. It won't have the thud and blunder of the
earlier stages, but what it lacks in that, it will make up for in subtlety.
Danny
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MOVE 50
Voting Results
d2-d1Q 97.89%
d2-d1K 0.55%
b1-a2 0.18%
b1-c1 0.17%
d2-d1R 0.17%
KRUSH MOVE 50 COMMENTARY
d1=Q to Kasparov's h8=Q
I recommend The World plays the move 50...d1=Q (Pawn on d2 to d1 with
promotion to a Queen).
Our move is obligatory - we must make a Queen. Therefore 50...d1=Q.
PAHTZ MOVE 50 COMMENTARY
d1=Q to Kasparov's h8=Q
I would play 50...d1=Q. There are no other possibilities in this position.
Now we are in an interesting queen game with better chances for White.
FELECAN MOVE 50 COMMENTARY
d1=Q to Kasparov's h8=Q
The World Team has only one move to make: d2-d1=Q. Finally, after those virtually
forced moves, the game arrived at this Queens' endgame. The World Team
should hold with no difficulty, since almost all of the lines analyzed show
an equal game with the World Champion.
BACROT MOVE 50 COMMENTARY
d1=Q to Kasparov's h8=Q
There is only one possible to consider, which is d2-d1=Q.
DANNY KING MOVE 50 COMMENTARY
Fifty glorious moves against Garry Kasparov; well done World. That's the
equivalent of going ten rounds with Tyson - and you are still standing.
Over two weeks ago, the race began to get a new queen. With the help of
their kings, both sides forced their pawns down the board to the eighth
rank. The result: a dead heat. Garry has just 'promoted' a pawn (to use the
chess jargon) and The World can do the same on this turn. Actually, it is
in the rules of the game that you can promote a pawn to any piece you like:
a knight, bishop, rook or queen. But in practice it is very rare that a
player 'under-promotes' as the queen is by far the most powerful piece,
combining the powers of rook and bishop.
So, The World will get a new queen, and then what? We have arrived at a
queen and pawn ending where, in spite of The World having an extra pawn,
Garry still has the advantage. Why?
The aims in this ending are the same as in others: to get a pawn to the
eighth rank to get another queen. White's single pawn is already far
advanced up the board, and supported by the king, to boot. Black's pawns, a
long way from the queening square, isolated, and without proper support, do
not represent a threat in the same way. Therefore, The World is on the back
foot.
How is The World to defend? There are two main ideas.
(1) CHECKING
The main weapon will be to subject Garry Kasparov's king to a barrage of
checks. If the king is unable to escape the checks, then the game will end
in a draw by 'perpetual check'.
(2) ADVANCE THE PAWNS
While Garry battles to advance his single pawn, The World should attempt to
advance its pawns - for two reasons. Although Black's pawns are behind in
the race, it does no harm to keep the pressure on; but, as well as that,
those pawns can actually be a hindrance to Black, providing cover for
White's king to shelter from the checks. Advancing them as far as possible
removes that cover and makes it more likely that a 'perpetual check' will
occur.
That is a very crude outline of the strategy involved in this ending. Play
is going to be extremely complex and subtle. For instance, moving the king
one square in the wrong direction could make the difference between a draw
and a loss for The World. It is a bit like stepping through a minefield.
However, I believe that with accurate play The World can hold the draw. Go
to it!
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MOVE 51
Voting Results
b7-b5 38.66%
b1-a1 34.13%
d6-d5 11.33%
d1-d5 3.1%
d1-c2 2.64%
KRUSH MOVE 51 COMMENTARY
Ka1 to Kasparov's Qh7
I recommend the World plays the move 51…Ka1 (King on b1 to a1)
SUMMARY
The World Champion's last move with 51.Qh7 seeks to co-ordinate White's remaining forces in preparation for the advance of the PASSED g-PAWN. I believe a good move for Black is 51…Ka1 (preventing White from coordinating his King and Queen by means of a discovered check). Please note that 51…Qc2+?? and 51…Qd3+?? are sickening blunders losing in a trivial manner to 52.Kh6, etc., and should therefore NOT even enter into consideration. In the Analysis section, I will look at my recommendation 51…Ka1 in a little more detail (along with a brief summation of my feelings about 51...d5, 51...Qf3, and 51...b5!?).
ANALYSIS
After 51.Qh7, I like 51…Ka1 from among Black's alternatives. Black maintains flexibility and leaves White the task of figuring which Black pawn will be set in motion. White is also given the task of finding a method of not only advancing his g-pawn, but also controlling one or even both of the Black pawns. Usually, White will need to take at least one of the Black pawns, when Black can quickly advance the other to secure counterplay. In some situations, Black can sacrifice both pawns to reach a theoretically drawn Q + P vs. Q ending.
Despite the highly complex nature of this ending (I am not sure even months of analysis could resolve all of its intricacies), I think the following lines give a reasonable idea of the play that might arise after 51…Ka1:
A) 52.Kf7 Qd5+ 53.Kg6 Qe6+ 54.Kh5 Qh3+ 55.Kg6 Qe6+, with level play.
B) 52.Kf6 Qd4+ 53.Kg6 (Black is OK after 53.Kf7 Qd5+, or 53.Ke7 Qe5+) 53...Qd3+ 54.Kg7 Qd4+ 55.Kg6 Qd3+ 56.Kh6 Qh3+, with equal chances.
C) 52.Kh6 Qd2, and now:
C1) 53.Qg7+ Ka2 54.Qxb7 d5 55.Kh5 Qe2+ 56.Kg6 (Black is OK after 56.Kh6 Qd2, or 56.Kh4 Qe4+) 56...Qe4+, with equal chances.
C2) 53.Qxb7 d5 54.Kg6 d4 55.Kf5 Qf2+, is equal (Black sacrifices the b-pawn to enable his d-pawn to quickly advance).
D) 52.Qxb7 d5, with equal chances. Again, because Black's d-pawn can be quickly advanced, Black is happy to sacrifice the b-pawn.
E) 52.Qh8+ Kb1 53.Qh7 Ka1 54.Qh8+ Kb1, turns full circle, repeating the position.
F) 52.Kg7 Qd4+ 53.Kh6 Qh4+ 54.Kg6 Qe4+, is equal.
G) 52.Qg7+ Ka2, and now:
G1) 53.Qxb7 d5 54.Kf6 Qd4+, with equal chances.
G2) 53.Kf7 b5 54.Qf8 (54.Qc3 Qd5+ 55.Kf6 b4 56.Qxb4 Qe5+ 57.Kg6 d5, is equal) 54...Qh5+ 55.Kf6 Qf3+ 56.Kg7 Qc3+ 57.Qf6 b4, with equal chances.
G3) 53.Kh7 d5 54.Qf7, and now 54…Qc2+, with the idea of 55.g6 b5!? transposing to the double pawn sacrifice idea mentioned in Variation G4b.
G4) 53.Qf7+ d5 (A natural move, although 53…Ka3!? may be another option for Black - planning b7-b5-b4, or simply delaying the advance of the d-pawn - and it deserves some consideration. With 53…d5, Black creates a self-pin, but he does meet the goal of advancing his d-pawn. It does not appear that White will be able to make progress by leaving his Queen on the a2-g8 diagonal so Black can expect to be able to advance his d-pawn again), and now:
G4a) 54.Kh6 Qd2 (an awkward diagonal pin on the g-pawn for White to deal with), when 55.Qxb7 d4, leads to equal chances (as Black's d-pawn has become a factor).
G4b) 54.Kh7, when I like the idea 54…Qc2+ 55.g6 b5, offering the sacrifice of both Black pawns (56.Qxd5+ Ka1 57.Qxb5) to reach a theoretical draw.
G4c) 54.Qxb7 d4, equal (here again, Black considers the b-pawn to be expendable).
G4d) 54.Kg7 Qd4+, and Black is OK, for example 55.Qf6 Qe3 (55…Qc4!?), with equal chances.
G4e) 54.Qf2+ (This move appears to me to be a critical and dangerous idea for White. In jockeying for position, both sides have improved their position slightly - the White Queen is more active on f2 than it was on h8, and Black has advanced his d-pawn with d6-d5 and d5-d4 is imminent) 54…Kb1, and now:
G4e1) 55.Kf7 d4 56.g6 d3 57.g7 Qb3+ 58.Kf8 Qb4+ 59.Kf7 d2, is equal.
G4e2) 55.Qf5+ Qc2 56.Kf6 d4 57.Qb5+ Kc1 58.g6 d3, equal.
G4e3) 55.Kh6 d4 56.g6 d3 57.Qb6+ Kc1 58.Qxb7 d2 59.Qc7+ Qc2, equal.
G4e4) 55.Kf6 d4! 56.g6 d3 57.g7 (Black has no problems after 57.Qf5 Qc2! or 57.Qg2 d2, or 57.Qb6+ Kc1 58.Qc5+ Qc2) 57…Qg4! (This is a completely forced move - not only does this cover the g8 square, but also very importantly the c8 square) and Black is OK (equal chances in the endgame with careful play).
Now you may ask what does this strange little King move (51…Ka1) seek to accomplish in its own right? This is my take on the situation:
First, Black does not commit a passed pawn immediately (and possibly prematurely, for example: 51…d5?!). Having said this, it is possible that 51…b5!? can be considered - I haven't come to a conclusion about this sharp continuation one way or another, and I haven't studied it in much detail, but it may be OK.
Second, it is not yet clear to me where is the best post for Black's Queen (is it f3? d4? d5? or even h1 at some time in the future?). Black could try 51…Qf3, and after 52.Qf7, he must plan to hold the position with 52…Qc6 - it may be enough.
Third, White is prevented from rapidly coordinating his King and Queen by means of a discovered check. This is best understood in light of the alternative 51…d5. This is the very move (desirable under normal circumstances for Black) that Kasparov's 51.Qh7 seems to be directed against. After 51…d5, White plays 52.Kf6+! and now none of Black's moves appear totally satisfactory, for example:
A) 52…Ka1 53.Qf5! d4 54.g6 d3 55.g7 Qb3 (55…Qg1? loses to 56.Qa5+ Kb1 57.Qb4+ Kc2 58.Qc4+) 56.Qf1+, and White wins (as 57.Qg2+ follows).
B) 52…Kc1 53.Qc7+ Kb1 54.Qb6+! (ruling out defenses based on Qd1-d4+ by Black) 54…Kc1 55.g6 Qf3+ 56.Ke7 Qg3, and in this unclear position, I think White has the slightly better chances.
C) 52…Ka2 53.g6! Qd4+ (53…Qf3+ 54.Ke7 Qe4+ 55.Kd8, looks good for White) 54.Kf7 Qf4+ 55.Ke8, and I think White's chances are better. All in all, 51…d5 makes me nervous.
So Black has some possibilities in this position (51…b5!? and maybe even 51…Qf3), although 51…d5 seems a little risky for Black, but based on what I know of the position at time of writing, as I am only allowed to propose one move, I am recommending Black play 51…Ka1 in the game - avoiding the potential hazards of a discovered check (allowing White to co-ordinate his pieces effectively), and preparing to create counterplay with the advance of Black's d- and/or b-pawn.
IM Ken Regan has created a resource that is the best overall outline on the Web for explaining the strategy for both sides in this Queen ending. I thoroughly recommend that my teammates acquaint themselves with this resource, as it complements and augments the analytical efforts of the SMART-FAQ. See:
http://www.cse.buffalo.edu/~regan/chess/GK-ROW/wtstrategy.html
PAHTZ MOVE 51 COMMENTARY
b5 to Kaparov's Qh7
The World has to push its b-pawn forward because the b-pawn is farther away
from the White King than the d-Pawn.
After Kasparov's next move 52.Kf7+ or 52.Kf6+, The World will probably move 52...Kb2. It is the only useful plan
to push one of The World's pawns forward, because The World cannot afford to lose any time in this position.
FELECAN MOVE 51 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's Qh7
Kasparov's move 51.Qh7 should not be a surprise for anyone, because
only two moves were worth attention in this position: 51.Qh7(computer) and
51.Qh5 (human). The move Qh7 is better because it threatens to neutralize
Black's material advantage while positioning to support the "g" pawn in its
powerful advance.
Now that The World has to play against Qh7, it must elaborate a plan
starting with:
A) First, The World cannot afford to push two pawns to the transformation
squares since the White pawn on g5 is already dangerously ahead.
B) Second, The World must choose which pawn has a better chance and
cosequently support its advance as quickly as possible.
C) Third, The World must stop, or at least slow down White's pawn advance by
giving a lot of checks.
In my opinion the "d" pawn has a better chance than the "b" pawn
because it is already protected - there is no tempo wasted - so for these reasons I
recommend 51...d5.
BACROT MOVE 51 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 51 COMMENTARY
Garry's last move, 51.Qh7, has been concerning me for some time. Such is
the power of the move that, when I first looked at this position a couple
of weeks ago, I felt that The World was actually lost here. However, on closer
examination, I am sure The World is still fighting fit! Before I dive into
the details of the position, let me give a brief summary of play over the
past few moves.
In the last two weeks, both sides raced their pawns to the other side of
the board. The result: a dead heat, as they both got their new Queens
within a move of each other.
Now the next phase of the game begins: the queen and pawn ending. With so
few pieces remaining on the board it is impossible to go for a mating
attack, so the goal here must be the same as in other endings: to advance a
pawn to the eighth rank to get a new Queen. That is precisely why Garry
Kasparov still has the better chances in spite of being a pawn down: his
remaining pawn stands on the 5th rank, just three squares away from
becoming a new Queen, while The World's pawns are still just about on their
starting blocks.
Having said that, it is not easy for Garry to get his pawn rolling. He must
first move his king out from in front of the pawn. That, however, is where
the problems start. If the king moves out straight away, it will be checked
right back to where it came from by Black's queen.
That's why Garry's last move is so clever. He wants to be able to move the
king away, uncovering a check from his queen on h7. Black's king must then
move, when White has time to advance the pawn, or, even better, bring his
queen to a square where it is able to shield the king from checks (f5 for
instance) and only then advance the pawn. It is a subtle, but insidious
threat.
How should The World respond? Pushing either of the pawns to gain some
counterplay is possible, and certainly a desirable strategy; but there is
also the more subtle response 51...Ka1!?, first seeing where White's king
is heading before committing to a pawn move.
I have a definite preference here, but I am not going to make a firm
recommendation (it is more my role to explain and describe, but sometimes I
can't help myself!). As is the case in several positions in this game,
there is probably not one best move, so enjoy working out your reply!
Danny
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MOVE 52
Voting Results
b1-b2 41.70%
b1-c1 39.67%
b1-a1 9.69%
d1-c2 4.19%
b1-a2 1.84%
KRUSH MOVE 52 COMMENTARY
Kc1 to Kasparov’s Kf6+
I recommend the World plays the move 52…Kc1 (King on b1 to c1)
SUMMARY
The World chose a sharp and very interesting continuation with 51…b5!? and must
now deal with the discovered check on its King (after 52.Kf6+). I strongly
recommend the move 52…Kc1. With precision, Black has chances to hold the position
and demonstrate the viability of 51…b5. If threatening to queen the b-pawn is
part of Black's counter to the quick advance of White's g-pawn (the discovered
check allows White to quickly organize the advance of his g-pawn), I think it
is necessary to vacate the b-file with Black's King. In this regard, I do not
recommend 52…Kb2 which blocks the path of the b-pawn, while 52…Ka1 (or 52…Ka2)
exposes our King to checks in some variations that will either: a) make us
block the path of our b-pawn again (as the King returns to the b-file) or; b)
leaves our King awkwardly placed on a2 (White may queen with check on the
a2-g8 diagonal). These alternatives all strike me as inferior to 52…Kc1.
In my estimation, 52…Kc1 is essential. My analysis section will look at 52…Kc1
in more detail.
ANALYSIS
Here is a brief examination of possible lines, and my evaluation of play after
52...Kc1:
A) 53.Qc7+ Kb2 54.g6 Qf3+ 55.Kg7 (55.Ke6 Qe4+, is equal) 55...b4 56.Qf7 Qc3+!
57.Kf8 Qh8+, and I do not see how White can evade the checks without eventually
blocking his own g-pawn with his King (when we can push our b-pawn again), for
example: 58.Ke7 Qe5+ 59.Kd7 Qb5+ 60.Kc7 Qa5+ 61.Kb7 Qb5+ 62.Ka8 Qc6+ 63.Kb8 Qb6+,
and the checks continue on and on (equal).
B) 53.g6 Qf3+ (also possible is 53...Qd4+!?) 54.Ke7 Qe4+ (also possible is 54…Qb7+)
55.Kd8 (55.Kd7 Qb7+ 56.Kxd6 Qb6+, is equal) 55...Qa8+ 56.Kc7 Qa7+ 57.Kc6 Qa6+,
equal. In this variation, Black can keep checking, until out of frustration
White ends up capturing the Black pawns with his King, but then a Theoretical
Draw would remain on the board.
C) 53.Qe4 b4! (B is for Brave! This pawn sacrifice is very forcing, and Black
SHOULD NOT fear the loss of his b-pawn), and now:
C1) 54.Qc4+ Qc2 55.Qf1+ (55.Qxb4 Qf2+ 56.Kg7 d5 57.Qc3+ Kb1 58.Qb3+ Ka1 59.Qxd5
is a Theoretical Draw, i.e., White will NEVER win, despite his extra pawn)
55...Qd1 56.Qf4+ Qd2 57.Qc4+ Qc2 58.Qxb4 Qf2+ 59.Kg7 d5, and now:
C1a) 60.g6 d4 61.Qc4+ Kb2 62.Kg8 d3 63.g7 (63.Qxd3 is a Theoretical Draw, as is
63.Qb5+ Ka1 64.Qxd3) 63...d2, with completely equal chances.
C1b) 60.Qc3+ Kb1 61.Qb3+ Ka1 62.Qxd5 is a Theoretical Draw.
C2) 54.Qxb4 Qf3+ 55.Kg7 d5 56.g6 d4 57.Qxd4 is a Theoretical Draw. This line
illustrates why Black SHOULD NOT maintain an illogical or sentimental attachment
to his pawns!
C3) 54.g6 Qf1+ (not 54...b3?? 55.g7 b2 56.g8=Q b1=Q 57.Qe3+, and Black loses)
55.Ke7 Qg1 56.Qc6+ Kb1 57.Qxd6 b3, equal.
D) 53.Qf5 b4 (53...Qd4+!? is possible) 54.g6 (54.Qf4+ Qd2 55.Qc4+ Qc3+ 56.Qxc3+
bxc3 57.g6 c2 58.g7 Kb1 59.g8=Q c1=Q 60.Qb8+, with a dead draw) 54...b3 55.g7 b2
56.g8=Q Qd4+! 57.Ke7 Qa7+ 58.Kxd6 Qd4+ 59.Qgd5 Qxd5+ 60.Kxd5 b1=Q, with a draw.
A note on Theoretical Draws: I have received e-mails, asking me what is meant
by "Theoretical Draw". With respect to this endgame, we see a number of instances
where White is left with a Queen and one pawn against Black's Queen. Very often,
Black sacrifices his pawns in a SPECIFIC and CALCULATED manner to bring about
such a position that with CORRECT play by Black CANNOT be won White. The drawing
mechanism consists of placing Black's King on various "safe squares" in the
a1-corner of the board, and subjecting the White King to an incessant barrage of
Queen checks, or in certain circumstances immobilizing White's last pawn by
pinning it against the White King. All Q + P vs. Q positions have been exhaustively
retro-analyzed by computer, and a definitive endgame tablebase has been compiled
for such positions and can be applied to ANY such instance as may occur in this game.
Therefore, I strongly recommend 52…Kc1, with which I believe Black has excellent
prospects of holding a draw.
PAHTZ MOVE 52 COMMENTARY
Kb2 to Kasparov's Kf6+
I would play 52....Kb2, because it is very important that Kasparov not be able
to play Qf7+ after 52....Ka2 later in the game. Then the white queen on f7 would be
placed much better then on h7.
FELECAN MOVE 52 COMMENTARY
Kb2 to Kasparov's Kf6+
As a reply to 52.Kf6+, I'm recommending 52...Kb2 as being one of the best
available moves for The World in the given position. I like this move
somewhat better than 52...Kc1 because the king moves closer to the pawns,
so it can support-defend-them more easily.
BACROT MOVE 52 COMMENTARY
Ka1 to Kasparov's Kf6+
This is the best move for The World Team.
DANNY KING MOVE 52 COMMENTARY
The World has voted for the most straightforward move, 51...b5. I think
this is an understandable decision given that the pawn was threatened by
Garry Kasparov's queen; and it is logical to join in the (next) pawn race.
The only problem is that this gives Garry the chance to carry out a cunning
manoeuvre, shuffling his king and queen into more favourable positions so
as to assist the g-pawn down the board.
The World Champion has responded with 52 Kf6+. The king moves out of the
way, opening the queen's diagonal to the black king, putting it in check.
In chess jargon this is known as a 'discovered check'. Black's king can get
out of check very easily, but, White gains time to bring his queen to a
more favourable square, perhaps f5, or e4 depending on Black's king move.
On h7, the queen is poorly placed, exerting little influence on the board.
In this kind of ending, it is well known that the queen should be
centralised. From the centre she commands the greatest number of squares,
not only giving more options, but forcing the opposing queen to a worse
square. It is similar to a mediaeval battle field where taking the higher
ground was of paramount importance.
But first, The World must bring its king out of check. There are four
possible options (blocking with the queen loses instantly: White exchanges,
then pushes the g-pawn home).
In my opinion this is one of the most difficult decisions The World has had
to make since that knotty problem at move 18! To carry out an accurate
analytical study of this position would take days. We have but a few hours
to reach a verdict - though that is at least better than a normal game
where just a few minutes would be available. It is possible that all four
king moves are sufficient to draw, but that is no guarantee!
Let me give you my preliminary thoughts: -
My gut feeling is that 52...Kc1 is incorrect as it is too exposed to
checks, and having seen the variation, 53 Qe4... d5 54 Qf4+ (gaining an
important tempo) Kb1 55 g6... d4 56 g7 my doubts were confirmed (obviously
Black can do better than this, but still).
In principle I also do not like 52...Ka2 because if White's g-pawn queens,
it does so with check. That gives White a possible vital tempo in some
variations. Therefore my choice would be for either 52...Ka1, or 52...Kb2.
The king is at least shielded from checks along the diagonal by White's
king.
Unfortunately my deadline is approaching, so I can't go into more detail.
Therefore I would strongly recommend that you look at the analysts'
suggestions before you vote, and, if you have time, check out the bulletin
boards where I am sure the debate will be raging!
Good luck.
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MOVE 53
Voting Results
b2-a1 65.69%
b2-b3 10.21%
b2-c3 6.58%
d1-e2 4.55%
b2-c1 3.57%
KRUSH MOVE 53 COMMENTARY
Ka1 to Kasparov's Qh2+
I recommend the World plays the move 53…Ka1 (King on b2 to a1)
SUMMARY
In playing the slightly risky 52...Kb2!? the World exposed its King to this
Queen check (53.Qh2+). At our expense, the World Champion is taking the opportunity
to reorganize his remaining forces to prepare the advance of his g-pawn. Here, I
recommend the move 53...Ka1, getting our King off the b-FILE to make way for and to
greet our advancing PASSED b-PAWN - I think this move may, in fact, be forced. By placing
our King firmly in the a1-CORNER, we minimize the risk of awkward checks on our own King,
we defend the b1-square (the square on which we will threaten to queen our b-pawn) and we
avoid creating a "traffic jam" on the board, so that our Queen will have plenty of SPACE to
maneuver and pound Kasparov's King with a barrage of Queen checks.
ANALYSIS
I was out of contact for a while when travelling, but I was able to find out what the World had played last move by logging on to msn.com, and was able to prepare some ideas to meet 53.Qh2+ (which MSN notified me of some time later by e-mail). With the battery power in my laptop running on low, I was able to do a little work on the way home. Here are some ideas I found and how I think play might develop after my recommendation 53...Ka1.
A) 54.Qf2 (to take the d4-square away from the Black Queen) 54...Qd3 55.g6 Qc3+ 56.Kg5 (if 56.Kf7 Qc4+ 57.Ke8 Qc8+ 58.Ke7 Qc7+ 59.Kf8 Qc8+ 60.Kg7 b4, with equal chances, as Black's b-pawn is making some noise) 56...b4, and Black is OK, for example, 57.Qf6 Qxf6+ 58.Kxf6 b3 59.g7 b2 60.g8=Q b1=Q 61.Qa8+, liquidates the position to a dead draw. Note that a draw is the BEST that Black can hope for in the current situation. Black's extra pawn is meaningless, as White possesses the qualitatively superior passed pawn (more advanced).
B) 54.g6 (this hasty push allows the Black Queen to enter the game with full effect) 54...Qf3+ 55.Ke6 Qe4+ 56.Kf6 Qf3+ 57.Kg7 b4 58.Qxd6 b3, and the game offers equal chances.
C) 54.Qf4, when I like the dynamic SPACE and TIME gaining PAWN SACRIFICE 54...b4! (54...Qd5 also seems possible, but I want to ram that pawn in), when the World Champion will have a dilemma to address:
Should he: a) Take our pawn, and allow his Queen to be diverted from its nice post on f4, thereby allowing Black's Queen to jump into the action? or b) Should he ignore our b-pawn, at the risk of watching it advance further towards promotion?
Let's take a look.
Option a) Garry takes our b-pawn with 55.Qxb4, and after 55...Qf3+ 56.Kg7 d5, suddenly our d-pawn becomes a menace! Now if 57.Qb7 Qc3+ 58.Kf7 Qf3+ 59.Kg7 Qc3+ 60.Kh7 Qh3+, with equal chances, and if instead Garry gets on with the business of advancing his own pawn with 57.g6, then we will spring a little trap on the World Champion with a second pawn sacrifice 57...d4! when our pawn is on the run, and threatening to advance further. If Garry takes this pawn with 58.Qxd4+, we will have trapped him in a Theoretical Draw.
Option b) Garry ignores our "poisoned" b-pawn and advances his own pawn: 55.g6 b3 56.Qa4+ Kb2 57.g7 Qf3+ 58.Ke7 Qe3+ 59.Kf7 Qf2+, and the chances are equal. We must keep an eye on his passed g-pawn, but in turn he cannot ignore our counter-threats with our b-pawn.
Therefore, I recommend 53…Ka1. I believe this is the correct strategic interpretation of this position.
PAHTZ MOVE 53 COMMENTARY
Kb3 to Kasparov's Qh2+
I suggest 53....Kb3 to protect the pawns. Another possibility is 53....Kc3, but
this move closes the diagonal a1-h8.
FELECAN MOVE 53 COMMENTARY
Ka1 to Kasparov's Qh2+
In my opinion, The World should consider playing 53...Ka1, leaving White
with no immediately checks, and therefore, saving some tempos for the
pawn(s); also the black king should not impede any further pawn advancing.
BACROT MOVE 53 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 53 COMMENTARY
Garry Kasparov has given check and, once again, this presents The World
with a difficult decision. Black's king is stepping through a minefield:
one false move and the game could be over.
Why is Garry checking Black's king when he could have just pushed his pawn?
Checks in themselves do not achieve anything. He is doing this so as to
gain time to re-position his queen: he would like to play his queen to f4
or f2 to shield his king from checks and only then push the g-pawn.
Instead, if he had pushed the g-pawn straightaway, the queen on h7 would
have been poorly placed to prevent Black's queen checks. As I mentioned in
my commentary two days ago, queens function best nearest to the middle of
the board, as they are able to control more squares. It is rather like an
army on a mediaeval battlefield taking the higher ground.
Where should Black's king move to? I do not like moving the king into the
middle of the board giving White's queen more checking options, therefore I
would rule out 53...Kc1 and Kc3.
53...Ka3 has received a lot of attention on the bulletin boards, but I am
concerned about the line 54 Qg3+ Ka4 55 Qf4+ b4 56 g6, when, because of
White's excellent queen position, Black has great difficulty in preventing
the pawn from promoting, e.g. 56...Qa1+ 57 Kf7 Qa2+ 58 Kf8. No more checks.
53...Ka1 appeals to me the most (as usual!), with the following lines
possible: 54 Qf4 (to shield the king from checks), then 54...Qd3
(re-positioning so as to check White's king) 55 g6 Qc3+ 56 Kf7 Qc7+ with
lots of irritating checks.
Alternatively, 54...Qd5 is possible, (it is reassuring that in this line
there are two plausible options to consider) 55 g6 b4, and if the pawn is
taken, 56 Qxb4, the checks start again with 56...Qe5+.
These are my preliminary thoughts; I present them as a starting point for
your own analysis. It is a difficult decision so, once again, I would
recommend that you check out the bulletin boards and examine the analysts'
suggestions carefully before voting - if that doesn't add to the confusion!
Good luck.
Danny
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MOVE 54
Voting Results
b5-b4 59.82%
d1-d3 17.54%
d1-d5 13.47%
d6-d5 4.71%
d1-a4 0.64%
KRUSH MOVE 54 COMMENTARY
b4 to Kasparov’s Qf4
I recommend the World plays the move 54…b4 (Pawn on b5 to b4)
SUMMARY
With 54.Qf4, the World Champion has activated and CENTRALIZED his Queen (with
the maneuver Qh7-h2-f4). He has also managed to get his King out from under
the feet of his passed g-pawn, and he is now ready to advance his g-pawn towards
g8. For its part, the World has firmly placed its King in the "safe a1-CORNER"
region of the board, distancing the King from the White g-pawn - as we understand
is correct from Queen endgame theory. However, it is vital that Black activates
his position immediately and generates COUNTERPLAY to combat White's simple but
dangerous plan of advancing the g-pawn.
I am recommending the DYNAMIC PAWN SACRIFICE 54…b4. This presents White with
the dilemma of either taking our b-pawn and allowing the Black position to come
to LIFE after 55.Qxb4 Qf3+ (planning an advance of our PASSED d-PAWN), or ignoring
our b-pawn with 55.g6, when Black's pawn is just as FAST with 55…b3. This pawn
sacrifice (54…b4) would represent the second time we have sacrificed a b-pawn
in this game, in order to clear the way for a PASSED d-PAWN! The move 54…b4
has been endorsed by the grizzled, battle-hardened veteran analysts in the
trenches of the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, and has also been analyzed
by Grandmaster Chess School, and I believe it is correct.
After much work and worry, I believe the World is now in a position to bring
about a WIN of our objective - to ACHIEVE a draw with the Black pieces against
the most BRILLIANT CHESS MIND the world has ever known - a task that most
analysts predicted would be impossible. The World Team has fought brilliantly
and valiantly, with its backs against the wall for over three months as the
World Champion has launched fire and fury against its best collective efforts.
There is no holding back now, we must push 54…b4, sacrificing our b-pawn. If
he captures our gallant foot soldier on b4, we will WIN the critical f3-SQUARE
for our Queen, so that we can play to dominate the White King - driving it in
front of his g-pawn. His g-pawn will be blocked by his own King, and meanwhile
our PASSED d-pawn marches forward unimpeded.
Sometimes I post on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board under the anonymous
identity "Solnushka" - in this way my fellow analysts do not know who I am!
Don't forget to visit the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board!
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/index.asp
Check out Grandmaster Chess School!
http://www.gmchess.spb.ru/
ANALYSIS
Before we start, it is very important to understand this analysis in light of
Black's goal.
Black is playing for a DRAW. Why? Because, although Black has a material
advantage, White's g-pawn (on White's fifth rank) is SUPERIOR to Black's b-pawn
(on Black's fourth rank) and Black's d-pawn (on Black's third rank). In other
words, White has full COMPENSATION for his pawn deficit. TIME is an important
element in chess. In this position, Black's problem is his LACK of time - Black
does not have the time to prepare the advance of either of his passed pawns
to counter White's threatening advance of his g-pawn, and Black's Queen is
passively placed.
In science, we understand that matter can be converted to energy - for example,
the basis of the Atomic Bomb. By analogy, in chess, matter can also be converted
to energy (or initiative or time). In the current board situation, Black must
energize his position by converting MATTER (a pawn) into ENERGY (tempo or time).
Do you remember on Move 47, how we sacrificed our front doubled b-pawn to
clear the way for the advance of our front doubled d-pawn? A similar situation
appears before us - once again, we must seriously consider sacrificing our
b-pawn, for the betterment of our d-pawn. Think of our b-pawn as a bomb, waiting
to explode and energize Black's position.
B is for Bomb!
Let us look at my recommendation 54…b4 (an idea I had on the way home from
Armenia, which has been stress-tested and fine-tuned on the World Team Strategy
Bulletin Board) in a little more detail. After 54…b4, we are clearly offering
to sacrifice our b-pawn - after all, it is not defended when it reaches the
b4-square.
Our opponent has two basic choices:
Should he:
a) Take our pawn, and allow his Queen to be diverted from its nice CENTRALIZED
post on f4, thereby allowing Black's Queen to leap into the action? Or;
b) Should he ignore our b-pawn, at the risk of watching it advance further
towards promotion?
WHITE takes the pawn (the bomb explodes)
A) 55.Qxb4 Qf3+ 56.Kg7 (56.Ke7 Qe3+ 57.Kf6 Qf3+, is equal) 56...d5, and
here is Black's point - our bomb has bought us the time we need to advance
our d-pawn. For example:
A1) 57.Qb7 Qc3+ 58.Kf7 Qf3+ 59.Kg7 Qc3+ 60.Kh7 Qh3+, equal.
A2) 57.Qd4+ Kb1 58.g6 Qe4, and now:
A21) 59.Qxe4+ dxe4, leading to a draw.
A22) 59.Qb6+ Ka1 60.Kf7 d4 61.g7 Qf5+ 62.Qf6 Qd7+, and Black is OK.
A23) 59.Qf2 d4 60.Kf6 d3 61.g7 Qc6+ 62.Kf7 Qd5+ 63.Kf8 d2, when Black's pawn
is just as good as White's pawn, so the game will be a draw.
A3) 57.g6 d4! (With the d-pawn in motion!) and now:
A31) 58.Qxd4+ is a Theoretical Draw.
A32) 58.Kh8 Qh5+! 59.Kg7 Qe5+, with a draw.
A33) 58.Qa4+ Kb1 59.Qxd4 is a Theoretical Draw.
A4) 57.Qa5+ Kb1 58.Qb6+ (if 58.Qb4+ Kc2 59.g6 d4 60.Qxd4, is a Theoretical Draw)
58...Kc2! (forced but good) and Black is OK.
WHITE declines the pawn (but the bomb is still ticking)
Now we look at the situation where White declines the pawn sacrifice, and tries
to further the ambitions of his g-pawn:
B) 55.g6 b3 56.Qa4+ (If 56.g7 b2! 57.g8=Q b1=Q, we obtain a rare endgame with
four Queens on the board. This particular four Queen ending seems quite trivial
as after 58.Qa8+ - White's only sensible check - Black plays 58...Qa2, with an
equal position) 56...Kb2 57.g7 (57.Qe4 Qc2! is equal) 57...Qf3+ 58.Ke7
(if 58.Kg5 Qd5+ 59.Kf6 Qf3+, repeats the position with a draw) 58...Qe3+, and now:
B1) White would lose after 59.Kd7?? Qg1! 60.Kxd6 Qxg7. This particular Q + P
versus Q ending would be losing for Kasparov (in other words it won't happen).
B2) 59.Kxd6?! is inaccurate, as after 59...Qg3+ 60.Kc5 Qxg7, it is White who must
defend a Theoretical Draw.
B3) 59.Kf7 Qf2+, and White (with his Queen out of play, and his King as the sole
guardian of his g-pawn) cannot escape the Black Queen's checks - so the position
is equal.
A note on Theoretical Draws: With respect to this endgame, we see a few instances
where White is left with a Queen and one pawn against Black's Queen. Very often,
Black sacrifices his pawns in a SPECIFIC and CALCULATED manner to bring about
such a position that with CORRECT play by Black CANNOT be won White. The drawing
mechanism consists of placing Black's King on various "safe squares" in the
a1-corner of the board, and subjecting the White King to an incessant barrage
of Queen checks, or in certain circumstances immobilizing White's last pawn by
pinning it against the White King. All Q + P vs. Q positions have been exhaustively
retro-analyzed by computer, and a definitive endgame tablebase has been compiled
for such positions and can be applied to ANY such instance as may occur in this
game. Such positions can be played with PERFECT PRECISION.
Special thanks to "Alekhine via Ouija."
In conclusion, I believe 54…b4 is both strategically (we gain time to activate
our Queen, and we threaten to promote our b-pawn) and tactically (we have
demonstrated the viability of the sacrifice if it is either accepted OR declined)
justified.
PAHTZ MOVE 54 COMMENTARY
Qd3 to Kasparov's Qf4
I suggest 54...Qd3, First, by doing this we defend both pawns, and second,
Qd3 will allow Qc3+ as well as protecting the square b4 for our advancing pawn.
FELECAN MOVE 54 COMMENTARY
Qd3 to Kasparov's Qf4
In this position, my recommendation for The World is 54...Qd3. I think this
is a very important move since Black has to advance and promote his "b" pawn
to a Queen at the same that White does. The idea of 54...Qd3 consists of re-positioning
the queen on c3, so the "b" pawn can move quickly ahead.
BACROT MOVE 54 COMMENTARY
Qd5 to Kasparov's Qf4
I think this is The World's best chance to make problems for the Kasparov.
The game might continue with 55.g6... b4 and then, for example, 56.Qxb4... Qe5+
leads to a draw. The World Champion has other possibilites for move 56:
56.Qf1+... Kb2 57.Qf2+... Ka3 58.Qg3+... b3 59.g7... Qg8, OR 56.g7... b3
57.Qf1+... Ka2 58.Qg1... Qe5+! (not 58...Qg8 59.Qa7, winning for White).
It is difficult to predict whether or not this game will be a draw.
DANNY KING MOVE 54 COMMENTARY
Instead of advancing his pawn, Garry has chosen to re-position his queen.
Why?
If he had pushed the pawn straight away, his king would have been exposed
to a hail of checks by The World's queen. By bringing his queen to this
more central square, Garry Kasparov shields his own king from attack, and
so prepares to give his pawn a smooth run down to the queening square.
This is a serious threat. If the pawn gets to the 8th rank and promotes to
another new queen, the game will be over. The only way for Black to defend
against the threat is to bring his queen into a position where it can
hassle White's king.
As I see it, there are three possible ways of achieving this:
re-centralising the queen immediately with 54...Qd3, or 54...Qd5; or, more
radically, sacrifice the b-pawn with 54...b4.
In this last case, if White leaves the pawn, then the b-pawn steams down
the board providing sufficient counterplay for Black. Alternatively, if the
pawn is taken with 55 Qxb4, then White's queen will have been deflected
from its excellent central position, and Black's queen steps in with a
check: 55...Qf3+. To escape from the checks, the king would have to hide in
front of the g-pawn, so hindering its progress towards the 8th rank.
Good luck with your choice: we are still stepping through a minefield.
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MOVE 55
Voting Results
d1-f3 84.91%
d6-d5 2.68%
d1-d4 2.52%
d1-e1 2.39%
d1-a4 2.17%
KRUSH MOVE 55 COMMENTARY
Qf3+ to Kasparov’s Qxb4
I recommend the World plays the move 55...Qf3+ (Queen on d1 to f3 with check)
SUMMARY
It was necessary for White to accept our pawn sacrifice, but in doing so
White's Queen is diverted from its CENTRALIZED and active post on f4.
We must make use of the opportunity to ACTIVATE our Queen with TEMPO -
therefore 55...Qf3+.
Don't forget to visit the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board!
http://bbs.msnbc.com/bbs/kasparov-team/index.asp
ANALYSIS
After, 55...Qf3+, we can expect the continuation 56.Kg7, where White is
inconvenienced by once again finding his King blocking the advance of his
own pawn. White cannot profit from avoiding 56.Kg7 by instead playing
56.Ke7, as after 56...Qe3+ (targeting the g-pawn) 57.Kf6 Qf3+, the position
would repeat itself.
After 56.Kg7, it is worthwhile pausing to examine Black's possibilities.
The SMART-FAQ highlights two principal continuations at this point, and
their relative merits require careful consideration in the short time we
have left to confirm our future course. After 56.Kg7, Black can play:
A) 56...Qe3!? - delaying the advance of his d-pawn, and taking control of
the d4-square. This move is quite logical, and should undergo the systematic
process of CONCRETE ANALYSIS. If we decide that 56...Qe3!? does not meet
our standards or expectations, we will instead play the principled move:
B) 56...d5 - as I alluded to in my previous analysis report. Examine the
position after 56...d5. It is ALMOST the same as the position we might have
obtained after 52...Kc1 53.Qe4 b4 54.Qxb4 Qf3+ 55.Kg7 d5 - with the
exception that Black's King is on a1, and not on c1 as in this particular
52...Kc1 variation. In that particular 52...Kc1 situation, we would have met
56.g6 with 56...d4 57.Qxd4 with an immediate DRAW, and we were safe in the
knowledge that White had no useful Queen check (instead of 56.g6) that
would improve his position.
Therefore, after 56...d5 in the present, we are playing a SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT
version of that particular 52...Kc1 defense (having given our opponent an
additional option by playing Kb1-b2-a1 instead of Kc1-b1). This comparison
is very important - it reveals to us White's additional options and
(incidentally) the genesis of the b5-b4 pawn sacrifice idea (a simple
application of our own accumulated knowledge).
After 56...d5 in our current analysis, White has the option of 57.Qd4+
(Check! Remember our King is on a1 and not c1). This must be considered a
critical continuation as it crosses Black's immediate plans to advance his
d-pawn further and also the plan to sacrifice this last pawn to reach a simple
Theoretical Draw, i.e., if White were instead to play 57.g6, we would be
VERY HAPPY to play 57...d4! with an equal game (as even surrendering the pawn
with check to 58.Qxd4+ is an immediate Theoretical DRAW). It is because of
this move by White (57.Qd4+) it becomes worthwhile examining 56...Qe3!? as an
option for Black.
The critical continuation after 57.Qd4+ appears to be 57...Kb1 58.g6 Qe4
59.Qg1+ (59.Qxe4 dxe4, is a draw) 59...Ka2, for example: 60.Qf2+ Ka1 61.Kf6
(or 61.Kf7, or 61.Kh6) when Black must play 61...d4 (in the short-term this
pawn on d4 will be pivotal to an important strategic objective - the closing
of the a1-h8 diagonal and the opening of the h1-a8 diagonal), freeing up the
d5-square and therefore a host of central light squares for use by the Black
Queen. In fact, these positions after 61...d4 are deceptive - they are not
at all simple, and with an opponent determined to make life as difficult as
possible for us, we should not expect things to be simple. I believe Black
is OK with accurate play - many variations will need to subjected to very
deep human analysis, perhaps to as many as 20 or even 30 moves deep. Our
defense is based on delivering PERPETUAL CHECK to the White King or
SACRIFICING our d-pawn at an opportune moment to obtain a Theoretical Draw.
If White allows his King to be driven in front of his pawn after the pawn
reaches g7, Black will be able to play d4-d3 and draw by means of
"simultaneous queening" or by forcing White to capture the runaway d-pawn
(resulting in a Theoretical Draw). Our immediate task as a Team is, in
my opinion, to play 55...Qf3+ and to thoroughly investigate the options
of 56...Qe3!? and 56...d5 (after 56.Kg7). I believe our goal is in reach,
but as always it requires a high degree of technical precision and
deliberation in our play. We will be making yet another important decision
on our next move.
Special thanks to "IM2429", IM Ken Regan, and GM Ron Henley and their keen
eyes for danger.
PAHTZ MOVE 55 COMMENTARY
Qf3+ to Kasparov's Qxb4
I suggest 55...Qf3+ This is the only good Queen move in this position -
and it also supports the pawn in its advance toward promotion.
But if we moved 55...Qf1+?! then the Queen would not have such a good range,
and also this move would not support the pawn.
FELECAN MOVE 55 COMMENTARY
Qf3+ to Kasparov's Qxb4
Now that White's queen has taken The World's pawn on b4 and is unable to
protect its King for a while, The World should start giving checks right
away with 55...Qf3+ The most likely way for The World to achieve a draw against
the World Champion is by using the method of perpetual check.
BACROT MOVE 55 COMMENTARY
Qf3+ to Kasparov's Qxb4
The normal move is queen check on f3 55...Qf3+
DANNY KING MOVE 55 COMMENTARY
On the last turn The World gave up its extra pawn, a pawn that had already
made good progress towards the queening square. What exactly is going on?
This is a bold and clever sacrifice. Black has no winning chances - that
was clear the moment the ending was reached 25 moves ago - so the b-pawn
can be given up with a clear conscience. It is all about saving the draw,
and this is a good way of going about it.
With his last move, Garry Kasparov had to capture the b-pawn - it would
have been too dangerous to allow its march to continue - but, in so doing,
he has allowed his queen to be deflected from an excellent position where
it was shielding his king from checks. This gives The World the opportunity
to bring its queen into a better position from where it can hassle White's
king, and so slow the advance of the dangerous g-pawn.
In such endings, the position of the queen can make the difference between
a win and a draw. The queen is the most powerful piece on the board, but if
it does not get into a position where it can demonstrate that power, then
its value is diminished.
The World must now seize the chance to play the queen to a better position,
beginning with a check to gain some time. There are only two available:
55...Qf1+ or 55...Qf3+.
Before deciding which one to play, ask yourself where queens perform
best...
Good luck!
Danny
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MOVE 56
Voting Results
d6-d5 87.38%
Qf3-f6 4.75%
Qf3-f5 1.56%
Qf3-d5 1.35%
Qf3-e3 1.2%
KRUSH MOVE 56 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's Kg7
I recommend the World plays the move 56...d5 (Pawn on d6 to d5)
Having made the World Champion block the path of his passed pawn with
his King, I believe it is now the time to mobilize our PASSED PAWN -
therefore I recommend 56...d5 as Black's best move here. Play may become
quite forcing for the next couple of moves, for example, after 56...d5,
the game may continue 57.Qd4+ Kb1 58.g6, when Black can consider
58...Qf5 (which, in my opinion, may be a better choice for Black than
58...Qe4).
PAHTZ MOVE 56 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's Kg7
We also have to advance our pawn, and with d5 the Queen protects it too.
56...Qe3 and 56...Qf5 are also interesting, but I think d5 is the more purposeful
move.
FELECAN MOVE 56 COMMENTARY
d5 to Kasparov's Kg7
In my opinion, The World should try 56...d5, and I have at least two good
reasons for this:
1) No other piece(king or queen) can significantly improve its position
right now.
2) The pawn on d6 is very poorly placed - it enables White's king to find a
shelter from Black's upcoming checks - and it has little , if any value (as
soon as the pawn moves forward, it gains value considerably ).
BACROT MOVE 56 COMMENTARY
(No commentary for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 56 COMMENTARY
The benefits of The World's pawn sacrifice on move 54 are already clear.
Following the deflection of White's queen from its excellent central post,
Black's queen was able to step into the action. Garry Kasparov's king has
been driven in front of the pawn, so slowing its progress to the eighth
rank.
White's king had to find shelter. If it had gone the other way, to e7 for
instance, then it would have been hit by another queen check, preventing
progress.
This pawn sacrifice from The World was all about improving the position of
the black queen. But now what?
As I see it, there is a clear choice between 56...d5; and 56...Qe3.
56...d5 activates the d-pawn, reminding the World Champion that The World
also has the potential to make a new queen and, in some variations, enables
the queen to move to the powerful central square e4.
56...Qe3 improves the queen's position again. It is nearer the centre,
preventing White's queen from re-centralising, and prepares to give White's
king some more checks from e5 or e7.
It is a difficult decision. The consequences of both moves are very hard to
resolve, even with reams of analysis. Do your best!
Danny
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MOVE 57
Voting Results
Ka1-b1 85.25%
Ka1-a2 12.58%
Qf3-c3 0.53%
Ka1-b2 0.33%
Qf3-f5 0.23%
KRUSH MOVE 57 COMMENTARY
Kb1 to Kasparov's Qd4+
I recommend the World plays the move 57...Kb1 (King on a1 to b1)
This is the best move for Black - the alternative 57...Ka2?! is BAD as
the Black King is VULNERABLE on the a2-square which lies on the a2-g8
DIAGONAL leading directly to the g8 queening square. Black was crudely
threatening to immediately sacrifice his d-pawn with the advance d5-d4,
and White's Queen check is aimed, in part, at crossing this Black
threat. As we need to bring our King to c1 to support the advance of
Black's d-pawn in some variations, I am recommending 57...Kb1 for our
move. If White continues with straight-forward 58.g6, Black should react
with the active 58...Qf5 (and not the dubious 58...Qe4?!).
PAHTZ MOVE 57 COMMENTARY
Ka2 to Kasparov's Qd4+
With his last move Garry improved the position of his queen. In the middle
of the board she controls events and at the same time prevents us from
sending our brave pawn home. However, I don't believe that Garry has enough
to win the game. The time has come to offer the World Champion a draw. If
he is in a good mood, he might accept, then we can happily pack up the
chess-set and all go home!
After Garry's last move 57 Qd4+ there are two possibilities: 57...Ka2 or
57...Kb1. I recommend 57...Ka2 as I feel that our king stands just a bit
better there.
FELECAN MOVE 57 COMMENTARY
Kb1 to Kasparov's Qd4+
In this position only two moves are available for The World: 57...Ka2 and
57...Kb1. I'm considering 57...Kb1 superior to 57...Ka2 because Black has
all the reasons to avoid the diagonal a2-g8 (g8 is the transformation square
for White's pawn); therefore, I'm recommending 57...Kb1.
BACROT MOVE 57 COMMENTARY
Kb1 to Kasparov's Qd4+
I recommend 57...Kb1. The best square for The World's king is b1 because later,
if White manages to take d5, it will be without a check.
DANNY KING MOVE 57 COMMENTARY
Having whipped off the pawn, Garry Kasparov re-centralises his queen,
gaining time by giving The World's king a check.
Let's just keep in mind what Garry is trying to do here: he is attempting
to advance his remaining pawn to the eighth rank to get a new queen - which
will win the game. At the moment his king blocks the pawn's path, but it
had to run there to hide from the black queen's checks.
A queen in the centre of the board controls more squares than at the side -
that's why Garry has re-centralised - and in so doing he is able to offer
his king greater protection when it re-emerges to let the g-pawn advance.
At the moment, the most crucial aspect of this endgame is the positioning
of the queens. Garry has just re-positioned, and in a couple of moves The
World will have to do the same to get a better checking angle.
In the meantime, The World must get its king out of check. Only two squares
to consider, a2 or b1, but really, there is no contest. I imagine we are
going to see unanimity from the analysts on this move. Make your own mind
up and then take a look at their suggestions if you are not sure!
Danny
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MOVE 58
Voting Results
Qf3-e4 49.19
Qf3-f5 44.24%
Qf3-h1 2.56%
Kb1-c2 .94%
Qf3-b3 .68%
KRUSH MOVE 58 COMMENTARY
I recommend the World plays the move 58...Qf5 (Queen on f3 to f5).
I believe that the active move 58...Qf5 is Black's best way to continue fighting for a draw. (Analysis has revealed severe problems with the alternative 58...Qe4 - and it looks bad for Black. I think 58...Qe4 is probably losing by force according to the latest analysis on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board). Therefore 58...Qf5 to give us our best chances.
PAHTZ MOVE 58 COMMENTARY
Qe4 to Kasparov's g6
I suggest the active move 58...Qe4.
By moving the queen to e4, The World is able to give some checks, and at the same
time force White's queen out of the way so it can advance the d-pawn.
58...Qf5 is also possible, but 58...Qe4 is more forcing as it attacks
White's queen. A queen exchange in this position results in an immediate
draw.
FELECAN MOVE 58 COMMENTARY
Qf5 to Kasparov's g6
In my opinion, The World should keep the balance with 58...Qf5; the Queen
comes closer to the White king , further inparing its movement, it has a
very active position from which it can give a lot of checks (perpetuals would
be best!)
BACROT MOVE 58 COMMENTARY
Qe4 to Kasparov's g6
The natural move is 58...Qe4. 58...Qf5 is worth attention, too.
It is impossible to give lines because in queen's endings they
are too long.
DANNY KING MOVE 58 COMMENTARY
White's pawn advances, and the tension increases. Having brought his queen
back to a superb central square, Garry Kasparov was able to push his pawn
one square down the board, knowing that his king was safe from checks.
Optically, White's queen on d4 is impressive. It controls squares on all
sides of the board, and blocks Black's pawn on d4. This is the crucial
difference between the two positions. Although material is even, Garry's
pawn is further advanced towards the queening square, so he has the
advantage.
There is only one way for The World to prevent White's pawn from heading
all the way down the board: Garry's king must be hassled with the queen.
However, at the moment, The World is unable to give a sensible check with
the queen, so on this move it is crucial to move her to a better square.
There are two sensible options: 58...Qe4 and 58...Qf5. Both have the aim of
showering White's king with a hail of checks - the only way to get a draw
from this position. Play is extremely subtle at this point, so I would
recommend you examine the analysts' suggestions carefully before voting; if
you still can't make your mind up from that, then look into the bulletin
boards for a colourful range of opinions.
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MOVE 59
Voting Results
Kb1-b2 54.3%
Kb1-c2 44.27%
Kb1-a2 1.5%
KRUSH MOVE 59 COMMENTARY
SUMMARY
I wish to thank the World Champion, MSN, and First USA for their gracious invitation and for extending me the privilege of participating in this event. I wish to thank my fellow analysts on the World Team Strategy Bulletin Board, GM Chess School and SmartChess Online for the privilege of being able to work with them.
I do not have a specific recommendation for this move. However, in my Analysis section, I present the World Team's distilled knowledge about the position after 58...Qe4, and Kasparov's response 59.Qg1+. This analysis is a testament to the resolve, dedication and fighting spirit displayed by brilliant and enthusiastic analysts all over the world, whose imagination was captured by this intriguing event. I believe this analysis will guide you more effectively than my personal recommendation on this move (all of Black's options are indicated).
ANALYSIS
As I indicated in my previous post, which can be found in the Game History file, I believe the move 58...Qe4 is a losing move - in my opinion 58…Qf5 was necessary to continue the game. After 59.Qg1+, we can do a limited but exhaustive search of all of Black's options, as our King will reach one of eight squares (a1 through d1, or a3 through d3) after White follows up with 60.Qf2+.
As we shall see, a common theme in these variations, is White's ability to play a quick Kg7-f6, followed by g6-g7. This maneuver would not have been possible after 58…Qf5 (maintaining watch along the f-file and in particular the f6-square). Black is unable to maintain perpetual check in these variations, and therefore White wins as the pawn on g7 (about to queen) is much more powerful than Black's slower d-pawn.
A) 59...Kc2 60.Qf2+, and now:
A1) 60...Kd1 61.Kf6 d4 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5 Qd5+ (63...Qc5+ 64.Qf5 Qe7+ 65.Kg6, White wins) 64.Qf5, with:
A1a) 64...Qg8 65.Qd3+ Kc1 (65...Ke1 66.Qxd4, White wins) 66.Qxd4, White wins.
A1b) 64...Qg2+ 65.Qg4+, White wins.
A2) 60...Kd3 61.Kf6 Qe8 (61...d4 62.Qf5, White wins) 62.g7 Qc6+ (62...Qd8+ 63.Kg6 Qd6+ 64.Qf6, White wins) 63.Kg5 Qe8 64.Qf5+, White wins.
B) 59...Ka2 has no independent significance - after 60.Qf2+ we will transpose into lines from Variation C.
C) 59...Kb2 60.Qf2+! and now:
C1) 60...Kb3 61.Kf6 d4 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5 Qd5+ (63...Qe8 64.Qxd4, White wins) 64.Qf5 Qg2+ 65.Qg4 Qd5+ 66.Kf4 Qg8 (66...Qf7+ 67.Kg3 Qg8 68.Qf3+ Kc2 69.Qf8, White wins) 67.Qg6, White wins.
C2) 60...Kb1 61.Kf6 d4 (61...Qb4 62.Qf5+ Kc1 63.g7, White wins) 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5 Qe8 (63...Qd5+ 64.Qf5+, White wins) 64.Qxd4, White wins.
C3) 60...Ka1 61.Kf6! d4 (61...Qh1 62.g7 Qh6+ 63.Kf7 Qh5+ 64.Kf8, White wins; 61...Qb4 62.g7 Qd6+ 63.Kf7 Qd7+ 64.Kg6 Qe8+ 65.Qf7, White wins) 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5, with:
C3a) 63...Qc5+ 64.Qf5 Qe7+ (64...Qc1+ 65.Kf6 Qc6+ 66.Qe6, transposes to 63...Qd5+ 64.Qf5 Qg2+ 65.Kf6 Qc6+ 66.Qe6 - Variation C3c - White wins) 65.Kh6 Qd6+ 66.Qg6 Qf4+ 67.Qg5 Qd6+ 68.Kh7 Qh2+ 69.Qh6 Qc2+ 70.Kh8, White wins.
C3b) 63...Qc1+ 64.Qf4 Qc5+ 65.Qf5 transposes to 63...Qc5+ 64.Qf5 - Variation 3c - White wins.
C3c) 63...Qd5+ 64.Qf5 Qg2+ 65.Kf6! Qc6+ 66.Qe6 Qf3+ 67.Ke7 Qb7+ 68.Qd7 Qe4+ 69.Kd6 Qf4+ (69...Qg6+ 70.Kc7 Qg3+ 71.Kc8 Qc3+ 72.Qc7 Qh3+ 73.Kd8 Qh4+ 74.Qe7 Qg3 75.Qa7+ Kb1 76.Qxd4, White wins) 70.Kc5 Qc1+ 71.Kb6 Qb1+ 72.Kc7! Qc1+ 73.Qc6 Qf4+ 74.Kb6 Qb8+ 75.Ka6 Qg8 76.Qa4+ Kb1 77.Qxd4, White wins.
C4) 60...Ka3 61.Kf6 d4 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5 Qd5+ (63...Qe8 64.Qxd4, White wins) 64.Qf5 Qg2+ 65.Qg4 Qd5+ 66.Kf4 Qg8 (66...Qf7+ 67.Kg3 Qg8 68.Qf3+ Kb2 69.Qf8, White wins) 67.Qg6, White wins.
C5) 60...Kc1 61.Kf6 d4 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5 Qd5+ (63...Qe8 64.Qxd4, White wins) 64.Qf5 Qg2+ 65.Kh6, White wins.
C6) 60...Kc3 61.Kf6 d4 62.g7 Qc6+ 63.Kg5, and now:
C6a) 63...Qd5+ 64.Qf5 Qg2+ (64...Qd8+ transposes to 63...Qe8 64.Qf5 Qd8+ - Variation C6b - White wins) 65.Qg4 Qd5+ 66.Kf4 Qg8 (66...Qf7+ 67.Kg3 Qg8 68.Qf3+ d3 69.Qf8, White wins) 67.Qg6, White wins.
C6b) 63...Qe8 64.Qf5 Qd8+ 65.Kg6, and now:
C6b1) 65...d3 66.Qc5+ Kb3 (66...Kb2 67.Qb4+, White wins) 67.Qf8 Qb6+ 68.Qf6 Qg1+ 69.Qg5, White wins.
C6b2) 65...Qd6+ 66.Kh5 Qh2+ 67.Kg5 Qg3+ 68.Kh6, White wins.
Finally, we should not forget:
D) 59…Qe1, when after 60.Qxe1+, White wins as Black's Queen has left the game.
After 59.Qg1+, I am unable to find any defense for Black.
PAHTZ MOVE 59 COMMENTARY
Kc2 to Kasparov's Qg1+
There are three moves we can play. From these 59....Kc2 looks best.
FELECAN MOVE 59 COMMENTARY
Kb2 to Kasparov's Qg1+
My recommendation for The World is 59...Kb2; we have to avoid the diagonal
a2-g8 as White's pawn transforms on g8, and the a1 square proves to be the
safest square for the king.
BACROT MOVE 59 COMMENTARY
Kb2 to Kasparov's Qg1+
This is the best possible position for The World's king.
DANNY KING MOVE 59 COMMENTARY
In response to 58...Qe4, Garry Kasparov has bounced down to the back rank
giving check. The reason? He wants to manoeuvre his queen to the f2 square
without losing any time.
On this turn, Black's king must get out of check, then the queen moves to
f2, again without loss of time as it gives check. On the f-file the queen
will shield the king when Garry moves it out from in front of the pawn. If
The World is unable to give checks for a move, then Garry's pawn will
advance again leaving it just one square from becoming a new queen.
Critical.
On several occasions in this game the position has demanded a precise
reaction, and this was another of them. Up till now things have worked out
well. Unfortunately, I fear The World did not play the most accurate move
on the last turn, and this time has stepped over the point of no return. I
guess that is democracy.
If this position is now a forced win for the World Champion, I would like
to see it proved beyond any doubt, and that will take a few moves yet. In
the meantime, let's explore every possible avenue looking for that last
chance to hold the draw.
Danny
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MOVE 60
Voting Results
Kb2-c1 30.72%
Resign 23.28%
Kb2-c3 21.87%
Qe4-c2 13.24%
Kb2-a1 3.8%
KRUSH MOVE 60 COMMENTARY
No analysis or recommendation received from Irina.
PAHTZ MOVE 60 COMMENTARY
Kc1 to Kasparov's Qf2+
I suggest Kc1. Many people say we have a losing position, but Garry has to show us that it is.
FELECAN MOVE 60 COMMENTARY
Ka1 to Kasparov's Qf2+
My recommendation for The World is 60...Ka1 which is ,unfortunately not enough to bring a draw long gone; too bad, probably next time!
BACROT MOVE 60 COMMENTARY
(No recommendation for this move.)
DANNY KING MOVE 60 COMMENTARY
Garry Kasparov has continued as expected by checking with his queen on f2.
Where ever Black's king moves to, White's reply on the next turn will be 61
Kf6. Then Black's queen is unable to give any checks, thanks to the perfect
placing of White's queen, so the g-pawn will advance one square further.
With the World Champion's pawn on the 7th rank one square from queening,
the situation is desperate. In place of the option to offer a draw, an
option for The World Team to resign is being introduced - that's how
desperate.
When the game does conclude, Garry Kasparov has promised to come online to
answer questions, then we can all find out what was really going on in this
extraordinary game.
Danny
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MOVE 61
Voting Results
d5-d4 58.14%
Resign 34.1%
Qe4-e8 2.58%
Qe4-c2 1.05%
Qe4-g6 0.9%
KRUSH MOVE 61 COMMENTARY
No analysis or recommendation received from Irina.
PAHTZ MOVE 61 COMMENTARY
d4 to Kasparov's Kf6
I suggest d4 with the idea of giving repeated checks to the World Champion, while moving The World's pawn forward.
FELECAN MOVE 61 COMMENTARY
Resign to Kasparov's Kf6
I think it is only a matter of time until Kasparov will get his second queen
on the board and win the game; for The World,the best way to continue this
interesting game is to resign with a decent position on the board and not to
spoil the beautiful (Microsoftian!) image created by the rest of the game.
We have to accept our defeat thinking of how much popularity chess has gained in
only a few months, thanks to this thrilling game, made possible by Microsoft and the World Champion.
BACROT MOVE 61 COMMENTARY
d4 to Kasparov's Kf6
The best move seems to be 61...d4, but after 62. g7... Qc6+ 63.Kg5 ...Qd5+ 64.Qf5 ...Qg2+, White has a pleasant choice between 65.Kh6 and 65.Kf6... Qc6+ 66.Qe6... Qf3+ 67.Ke7 ...Qb7+ 68.Qd7... Qe4+ 69.Kd8, winning the game.
DANNY KING MOVE 61 COMMENTARY
Garry Kasparov's king steps to the side to make way for the g-pawn to
advance. Thanks to the careful positioning of White's queen, Black is
unable to give any checks (as well as the f-file, the d4 and h4 squares
have craftily been covered).
This is the problem. Without a check, The World will be unable to prevent
White's pawn from advancing again, so that on the next turn it will be just
one square from becoming a new queen. How can Black meet this? With
difficulty; ultimately, resistance is futile.
To put up the best fight the queen needs to hassle White's king with
checks. Black could give the queen more room by playing 61...d4, so as to
check on c6. Then Garry will push his pawn, ready to find a precise path
with his king and queen through the maze of checks. Unfortunately, Black's
d-pawn is just too far away from the queening square to provide sufficient
counterplay.
Even though the position is lost, the path to victory is delicate. And
judging by the vote for the last move, there are still many players who
would like to see the World Champion demonstrate his winning technique.
Danny
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MOVE 62
Voting Results
Resign 51.01%
Qe4-c6 32.08%
d4-d3 5.19%
Qe4-d5 3.17%
Qe4-g4 1.95%
KRUSH MOVE 62 COMMENTARY
PAHTZ MOVE 62 COMMENTARY
FELECAN MOVE 62 COMMENTARY
BACROT MOVE 62 COMMENTARY
DANNY KING MOVE 62 COMMENTARY