Lichfield held by Solihull 'B' in Birmingham Division 5

Birmingham & District Division 5

After two early-season victories, Lichfield were held to a draw by Solihull 'B', despite holding grading advantages on several of the boards.

Stephen Shields (White) finished first on Board 3. His opponent castled queenside and launched a kingside attack but left his own King with little defence. Stephen’s initiative was so great that his opponent was forced to give up the Queen for a brief reprieve. Resignation followed not long after.

David Fone (Black) was next to complete his game on Board 2. Both players seemed evenly matched in a closed system as neither could make progress. David declined an initial draw offer in the hopes of fighting for more, but when the second offer came, he reluctantly agreed.

Stephen Smithson (Black), put up a valiant effort on Board 4, and held on against his opponent's advances for most of the game. The game changed when the Queens were traded, as his opponent's remaining rook and knight proved to be better mobilised. Stephen still put up a good fight but ultimately resigned.

Finally, on Board 1, Peter Rose (White) had what he thought was a "cracking game". His opponent played the “bunny ears” of very early a6 and h6 pawn pushes, prompting Peter to claim the initiative and dictate the game. The game proved deceptive, however. Peter thought he was better throughout and had blown a winning endgame, but later analysis showed that the game was level. Neglecting King safety and committing fully to an attack, he had left himself open to counterplay; the eventual draw was a fair result.

(Match played: 22nd October)