Ringwood B v Highcliffe C

Good to meet up with the Highcliffe players for the first match of the campaign in division 3 and an enjoyable evening.

First to finish was Matt. When I looked, he seemed to be in control and better against his opponent who after a long absence from chess was returning to the game. However, his opponent clearly remembered that you complicate the game when you are worse and secured the first point of the match.

Next to finish was my game against Andrew on board 1. It had been a tough game where my only consistent advantage was being ahead on the clock when Andrew offered a draw which I took.

Board 2 was a hard-fought game where Richard seemed to gradually get the advantage of being a couple of pawns up in a bishop v knight ending. Eventually it became clear the pawns were inevitably going to promoted and we drew level in the match.

Board 3 had been more difficult to assess, but Alan looked to be a piece up with more pieces coming off! As they did, it became clear that the game was up, and Alan would be the victor.

4 well fought games played this evening.
Matt made a Knight sacrifice opening up Rogers King side like a can of beans, but Roger defended well and managed to survive the attack reposting with a surprise mate of his own. Martin and I jockeyed for position in a very closed game - ending up with an agreed draw once the Queens were swapped off.
Robert seemed to be ahead early on, but Alan fought back and won a piece securing victory
Last to finish was Susan, Richard won a pawn in the middle game and increased his advantage to a won endgame.
Highcliffe were a bit rusty at the start of the season, but it was a fun evening and Ringwood were worthy winners.

Note: Martin - Robert Powell was our board three - not Roger Howell - can you amend this please as I cannot seem to be able to correct this.