Round 2 was preceded by the unfortunate news that the top seed, Scott Stewart, has had to withdraw from the tournament, so an extra bye was created.

On the night, Swytzar Swytzer met John Abson in a 4 Knights Game! Black picked up a pawn in the opening stages, but inventive play by White turned the tables. White was unable to find an adequate plan, however, allowing Black to steadily build up a mating attack which succeeded against indifferent defence.

Jamie Brotheridge met Rob Loveband in another early high level encounter see game.... A Queen’s Gambit Declined it was a tough game for both players. White pushed hard, offering material for an attack in his typically aggressive style. Black accepted a piece for a pawn, but with his King in danger was soon forced to give up his Queen for Rook and piece, and was then quickly overwhelmed. A good win for the 3^rd seed after the disappointment of round 1.

Kevin Perrin versus Patrick Cook and Rob Bailey versus John Frangakis were postponed. Chris Segrave and Michael Schreenan had a bye.