Wimborne A v Highcliffe A

On a night where we travelled across the forest expecting some of the best players Dorset had to offer, we were not disappointed.

The end of social distancing and all masks meant we could play a match in what seems to be back to normal covid wise with everyone in good spirits.

Both teams were there on a mission, for us, don’t lose, for Wimborne, whatever it takes to win.
Granted I didn’t see too much of the other games as I was focused on my game but from what I could gather.

Bruce missed an idea from Mark which meant it would become very difficult to create anything for either player so a draw was agreed.

Next to finish was Board 4 where the position was level, Richard offered a draw knowing it would be enough to not lose the match and despite it looking like a win was needed Bill decided when down on time that there wasn’t enough to press for a win.

I played an aggressive sideline against Ian in which Ian decided to give the pawn back for development but it left me with a far advanced protected passer and playing around it Ian created some chances but the pawn promoted winning me a rook. This left me with a Queen 2 rooks and a couple pawns vs Ian’s Queen 1 rook and a couple of pawns when Ian’s flag fell.

Christian looked to have a slightly better position but when the draw secured the match it was agreed to send us home with the points.

Thanks to Wimborne for the excellent hospitality as always.

Thanks to Highcliffe for a well fought match. I did not see too much of other games as under pressure from a trick in the opening which I found difficult to extricate but gave it a go. Adam played accurately to keep the advantage and influenced the other matches as was clear I was losing.
Mark looked like he had a small advantage but not enough to beat Bruce. Bill ended up with a dead drawn position so had to accept a draw. Allan was an exchange for 2 pawns up but when draw agreed and no time left each Christian probably had the best of it.
Well played Highcliffe who now in strong position in the league.