|
The big showdown, to decide the championship, was between 7 times champion Patrick Cook and the runaway tournament leader Joel Beggs. A Catalan Opening, White got what he was after: a slight edge from the opening. Black played a careful, disciplined game and gradually opened up the position, relieving the pressure. With the game heading for a draw, White accepted Black's offer and congratulated the new champion.
Kevin Perrin met James Eldridge in a Dutch Leningrad. White went for immediate Queen-side expansion and pushed on with all material still on the board, and duly broke through, gaining a decisive material advantage.
Rod Jacobs faced Jamie Brotheridge in a Sicilian. White gained a big lead in development but was unable to prevent Black from getting into the game and creating some counter-chances. With the game looking drawish, White blundered deep in the endgame, dropping a piece and the game.
Chris Segrave took on a demoralized Peter Miitel in another Sicilian. White developed logically and smoothly in the face of Black’s lightning play and was rewarded with a pawn and a tremendous attack. Black simply resigned rather than be put to the sword.
Rob Loveband had the bye.
|
