Clint Stewart met Kevin Perrin and played Bird's Opening. A typical Dutch Leningrad with colours reversed was reached and an even positional struggle ensued. White gained space, and patient pressure eventually enabled White to break through and win a lengthy game.

Rob Loveband faced tournament leader Jamie Brotheridge. A topical Semi-Slav resulted in sharp opening play. Black invested 2 pawns in a complex middle game and kept Whites king dangerously exposed in the centre. The complexities proved too much for White to handle and he lost on time! despite the 30 second increment.

Tim Commons took on Michael Schreenan who defended with the Petroff. Black dropped a piece early and White subsequently picked up a couple of extra pawns as well before sweeping the board for a convincing win.

Scott Stewart faced Patrick Cook in a battle of the champions and played the English, at one time Patrick's favourite. Black was in an aggressive mood after his earlier failures and a sharp, tactical melee ensued. White calmly resisted the pressure and picked up a decisive material advantage before winning without difficulty.

Swyzer Bell gained a free point when John Abson failed to appear.