Southbourne A v Poole A

Both teams were missing 2 registered players but as Poole have 2 teams in Division 1 the impact on them was greater as its reserves were lower graded. The match, however, was much closer match than the scoreline suggested. On top board a tame short draw was agreed. On board 4 Kryzysztof Itrich was playing exceptionally well against Len laker and may have been even better but then tempted Len to sacrifice a piece for 2 central pawns with a storming attack. The tactics favoured Len who converted in good style but well played Kryzysztof for putting up a good fight against an opponent rated over 40 points higher. The turning point of the match, though, came on board 3. Adam Jaggard had appeared to be a safe piece to the good as Jon Catchpole's sacrificial attack was running out of steam but then an oversight where Jon could attack a rook with his queen and also threaten mate and suddenly the tables had been turned. However, Adam had played exceptionally well and it was a great learning experience. With the match already lost, John Weatherlake, who was playing in his normal aggressive style, had been involved in probably the most exciting game of the match on board 2, unfortunately oversaw a complicated yet clever tactic which allowed Russ Pegg to win a piece and the game. As always, it is a pleasure to welcome the Poole A team and the match was played in a friendly, sporting spirit (including some careful and unique handshakes).