EmanuelBerg

The.French . .

Defence VOLUME ONE

Tired of bad positions? Try the main lines!

Grandmaster Repertoire 14

The French Defence 1

By

Emanuel Berg

Quality Chess www. q uali tychess .co. uk

First edition 20 1 3 by Quality Chess UK Lrd

Copyright© 20 1 3 Emanuel Berg

Grandmaster Repertoire 14-The French Defence I All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored

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Preface 111e idea of writing a chess book has been on my radar for many years. When I was first approached about a French repertoire project in 2008 I was keen on the idea, but a hectic tournamem schedule meant having to put the plan on hold. When the question arose again in 20 I I, the timing was more favourable and I decided to go for it. Writing chis book has been a lot of fun and even more hard work. In chis short introduction I will cell you a bit abour my background in chess and specifically with the French Defence.

I grew up in the countryside near the village of Kil in Sweden, and learned to play chess at kindergarten at the age of five. 'll1e leader of the chess group quickly saw char I had talent for the game and I soon scarred taking pare in school events and local tournaments. As a youngster I was caught to play a number of gambits, which were objectively unsound but nevertheless brought me a lot of success. 111is 'education' also helped me to develop a tactical eye which remains one of my greatest strengths at the chessboard. However, as my opponents got stronger it became necessary to change my way of conducting the openings.

My adventures with rhe French starred in 1 990 at the age of eight, and since then I have been playing it almost exclusively against l .e4. After more than two decades, hundreds of competitive games and counrless hours analysing this opening, I have developed a deep understanding of the resulting positions. I would also like to mention my former coach, GM Scellan Bryne!!, who has had a profound influence on my French adventures.

Generally the French can be characterized as a solid opening, but it can be handled in many different ways. In many lines Black has the ability to choose between remaining solid or playing actively and dynamically. As an ambitious player, I rend to go for the latter type of positions with chances to play for a full point.

When working on chis Grandmaster Repertoire series, my goal has been to share my own interpretation of the French Defence with the readers, nor only in terms of moves and recommendations, bm also of positional themes and plans. Personally, when reading a chess book I appreciate explanations much more than only long lines with an assessment at the end. While I cannot deny char my analysis is derailed in places, I have endeavoured to give enough explanatory prose to enable the reader to understand what is happening.

111e present volume covers all notable lines after l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3 .lllc3 ilb4, with the exception of the main 7.®g4 variation. 'll1e latter is such an important topic chat the Quality Chess ream and I decided to afford it special coverage in Volume 2 of the series. "ll1e third and final volume will cover the Tarrasch, Advance and all ocher alternatives to 3.lLld. For now though, rhe material presented in chis book will offer a sound yet ambitious repertoire against all of White's other tries against the Winawer. I hope you will enjoy the book and I wish you every success.

Emanuel Berg Arvika, September 20 13

Contents Preface 3 Key to Symbols used & Bibliography 6

4th Move Options 1 4.i.d2 and 4.\Wd3 7 2 4.\Wg4 21 3 4.i.d3 35 4 4.a3 49

4.ctJe2 5 Introduction 69 6 6.e5 85 7 6.!d 99

4.exd5 8 Introduction and 8.\Wf3 111 9 Main Line with 8.\Wh5 123

5th Move Options 10 5.l2Jf3 and 5.dxc5 139

5.\Wg4 11 Introduction 145 12 6.dxc5 - without 8.0-0-0 and 8.l2Jf3 159 13 Main Lines with 8.0-0-0 and 8.l2Jf3 173

5.i.d2 14 Introduction 185 15 6.1xh6!? 197 16 6.llib5 209

7th Move Options 17 7.1d3 and 7.h4 221 18 7.llif3 235

7.a4 19 Introduction 251 20 9.'l9d2 261 21 9.1d21d7 - Move 10 Alternatives 281 22 10.1b5 291 23 10.1e2 301

Variation Index 317

Key to symbols used ;!; White is slightly better a weak move + Black is slightly better ?? a blunder ± White is better a good move + Black is better !! an excel lent move +- White has a decisive advantage !? a move worth considering -+ Black has a decisive advantage ?! a move of doubtful value

equality # mate a; with compensation D only move +! with counterplay N novelty "" unclear --+ with an attack t with an in itiative

Bibliography Moskalenko: The Wonderfitl Winawer, New in Chess 2010 Psakhis: fl·ench Defence 3 Nc3 Bb4, Batsford 2004 Vitiugov: The French Defence Reloaded, Chess Stars 2012 Warson: Dangerous Weapons: !he French, Everyman Chess 2007 Watson: Pill)' the French .3rd Edition, Everyman Chess 2003 Watson: Pl11y the French 4th Edition, Everyman Chess 2012 Williams: Attacking Chess: !he French, Everyman Chess 2011

Periodicals Secrets of Opening Surprises 1he Week in Chess

Electronic/Internet resources Bojkov: Unorthodox against the French Winawcr, ChessBase DVD ChessBase Magazine ChessPublishing.com

This bibliography simply lists the most significant sources. In view of the sheer number of books, periodicals, DVDs and websites covering the theory of the French Defence, the above list docs not include every source we considered.

Some of the above sources belong to my personal collection, while others were checked by my editor using rhe Quality Chess library. In the text I have referenced other authors where I felt it was relevant to do so, while applying some common sense to avoid becoming obsessive.

4th Move Options 4.icl2 and 4.id3

Variation Index I.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.tl:!c3

3 ••. .ib4 A) 4 • .id2 dxe4 5.Wfg4 tl:!f6 6.Wfxg7 B:g8 7.'%Vh6 tl:!c6

Al) 8.tl:!ge2 A2) 8.0-0-0

B) 4.Wfd3 tl:!e7 Bl) 5.'%Vg3 B2) 5.tl:!B B3) 5.tl:!e2 B4) 5 . .id2

A2) afccr l 2.�xc3

1 2 ... e5!N

B I ) afcer 6.�f4

a b c d c f g h 6 . . . lllbc6!N

a b c d c f g h

B4) afcer I 3.ll'lf3

8 8

10 12 13 14 15 16

8 4th Move Options

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ctJc3 ib4

a b c d e f g h

Our investigation begins with two sidelines, A) 4.id2 and B) 4.Wf d3.

A) 4.id2

This is a rare line, bur it could be a tricky one for an unprepared player. White intends to sacrifice a pawn in return for active piece play.

4 ... dxe4 This is the most principled reply which

somewhat forces the play. 4 . . . tlle7 and 4 . . . ll'ih6!? are decent alternatives.

s.Wfg4 White's play is based wholly upon this idea.

Other moves would just lose a pawn without compensation.

s ... llif6 6.Wfxg7 �g8 7.Wfh6 ctJc6 Here Al) 8.llige2 is one option that needs

to be investigated, but White has mainly played A2) 8.0-0-0.

Al) 8.llige2

9.llixd4 Wfxd4 10.0-0-0 �g6 1 1.Wfh4 id7 Black threatens to consolidate with a healthy

extra pawn and White need to play accurately to keep the balance.

12.igS!N I 2.�e3?! is not an ideal solution for White:

1 2 . . . 1.WeS l 3 .�d4 1.WfS 14.�xf6 Eixf6 I S.1.Wxe4 ( I 5.ll'ixe4N 1.Wf4i' is a similar story.) l 5 . . . 1.Wxe4 1 6.ll'ixe4 :E\g6 Budimir - Simonyi, Senta 2007. lhe exchange of queens has removed all hope of counrcrplay for White, so Black can rely on a small advantage thanks to the bishop pair and his generally more active pieces.

a b c d e f g h

Chapter 1 - 4 .�d2 and 4.'\Wd3 9

12 ... Wf e5 13.f4! This move is obligatory if Whire is to avoid

fal ling into a worse position. I 3.�xf6? does nor work here in view of

I 3 ... Ei:xf6 l 4.Wxe4 ( l 4.�xe4?? drops a piece to I 4 . . . Ei:f4) l 4 . . . �xc3 I 5 .V�xb7 �xb2t I 6.Wxb2 Wxb2t 1 7. '>t>xb2 Ei:xf2+ when Black has a clear exrra pawn as well as rhe more acrive pieces.

13 ... Wff5

14.g4! Once again White needs ro keep playing

energetically, since orher moves would give Black enough rime to consolidate.

14 ... 'Llxg4 1 5.i.h3 i.xc3 16.i.xg4 Wfc5 17.bxc3 Wfxc3

A sharp position has arisen, but computer analysis shows ir will lead ro a forced draw.

18.�xd7!? This is rhe most i nteresti ng route, although

from a practical perspective ir is White who will have to find the more difficult moves to secure rhe half point from here.

1 8.Wel is simpler, when 1 8 . . . WaU I 9.�d2 Wd4t forces a simple perpetual, since 20.We2?? would be suicidal due to 20 ... �b5t.

18 ... iixd7 19.�dlt l 9 .Wxh7?! Wal t 20.'>t>d2 Wd4t followed by

. . . Ei:g7 only gives Black additional chances.

19 ... iic6! "Ibe cG-square makes for a safer home rhan

e8 in rhis position.

20.Wi'xh7D 20.We l ?? Wxel 2 1 .�xel hG 22.�h5 hxg5

23.�xgG fxg6 24.Ei:xe4 gxf4 reaches a won rook ending for Black.

20.Wh3? keeps Whire in rhe game, bur after 20 . . . Wxh3 2 l .�xh3 f6 22.�g2 f5 Black's advantage is obvious with a rook plus three pawns for rhe pair of bishops.

20. 'it>b I ? hG! also fails to impress for White: 2 l .�d8 (2 l .�e7?! loses to 2 l . . .Ei:ag8 22.h3 f5 23.�e2 Ei:gl 24.WxhG Ei:8g6 when rhe pressure along the first rank will be more rhan White can bear.)

a b c d e f g h

4th Move 0 .

2 1 i:oi d

prions 1 0

• • • .!:IX 8! 22 i:oi ex II

.t:1xd8 W/f6' cc ent w1·1 .

. Black ·11

. lnmg I

WI h

with four e c lances in ti

ave

xtra pa le end

, wns against WI . , , .

game lite s bishop

8 , •• • � " .

1 ril/& -�1-��/, � D /. .... %_ •� � � .. m%%, 6

•"" •·•Vi 5 .�p,,1.a.l•

�/. � m wr :���Jni• 2 r:,B· '%. a .

, _-,,,,4�� • • � �::m m/..Z a b c d

/::

2

e f o . . J3hs 21 '1111 f7

g h

. sx W1 It Black can force .

a 22.@d2 �xh2t

22 W/d an immed·

. . . 4t= should he . h

'.ate perpetual witl1

WIS It.

23.�e2 23.iie3 I I 00 {S r" I

after 23 '1111 ' is {y, but I Id

· . . . Bc3t 24 © 10 s the b I

26.©e3 W/c]1" wi I. - xe4 W/xc2t 25 .�d3 ;;nee

t l a perpetual. . c41"

10.Wifh3 1 0.W/h6 � 6 g = could b . e an mstant dr

10 ... !lg6

•w.

Chapter 1 - 4 . .id2 and 4.'Wd3 1 1

"Ihis introduces the threat of . . . e5 which White cannot ignore. Now 1 1 .W°h4 with a possible draw actually seems to be the best continuation, so from a theoretical perspective White has clearly failed to impress with his opening.

l l.f3 If White wants to continue the battle then

this is the most logical way to do it. It leads to a sharp game but it seems to me that White is risking more than Black.

l l .a3? meets with a strong counter: 1 1 . . . eS 1 2.W°h4 l'l:g4! A clever intermediate move, forcing the white queen to an unfavourable square.

1 5 .B l'l:g6 1 6.W°h4 W°d5i Black has clearly won rhe opening battle - he has active pieces, strong central control and dangerous attacking chances against White's king with ideas such as . . . W°a2 constantly lurking. The knight on d4 can be firmly protected by ... c5 if necessary.

l 1 . .. e3! I have chosen this as my main l ine, but it is

nor the only decent move.

"Ihe reader may also choose to investigate: 1 1 . . . .Lc3!?N 1 2 . .ixc3

l 2.bxc3 W°d5+ highlights the vulnerability of the white king.

I 2 ... W°d5 1 3.fxe4 l 3.b3 is well mer by 1 3 . . . aS! launching an attack. 1 3.©b l ? is bad in view of 1 3 ... eS 1 4.\Wh4 .�.f5! with strong pressure on White's position. Nore that Black is now ready to complete development by castling.

1 3 . . . llixe4 Now White's options are l imited by the need to deal with concrete threats.

14 .�d3 1 4.W°e3 llixc3 1 5 .W°xc3 W°xa2 is at least equal for Black.

1 4 . . . llif2 1 5.W°xh7 l'l:xg2 1 6.l'ffl IJ¥xa2 I analysed this position a good deal

further, and found the overall assessment co be unclear/equal. Since this is nor my main

1 2 4th Move Options

recommendation I wil l cut the analysis off here and invite interested readers to conduct their own investigation.

12.he3 Herc I was able to improve on the lone

example in the database, Baatz - Schmitt, Berlin 2005.

a b c d e f g h 12 . . . eS!N 13.'1Wh4 .ixc3 14.bxc3 '1Wd6! 1 5.dxe5

1 5 . �b2 �e6 gives Black an active game and attacking chances against White's king, all of which adds up to full compensation for the sacrificed pawn.

15 ... '1Wa3t 16.©bl .ie6 17 . .ic4 '1Wa4 18.exf6 hc4 19.'1We4t ©f8

20.a3 '1Wb5t 21 .©cl 2 1 . c;t>a I !l:eS 22.�f4 �a5 gives Black a strong

initiative and excellent attacking chances.

21 .. .b6 Intending . . . !i:eS with a dangerous arrack.

B) 4.'1Wd3

a b c d e f g h

"This move is rarely seen at the top level, although it crops up now and then . At first this move looks pretty weird, moving the queen early and blocking the diagonal of the light-squared bishop. White's main ideas are to arrange queenside castling with .\ld2 and 0-0-0, and to transfer the queen to the kingside, either to g3 or - in the event chat Black exchanges on e4 and plays . . . lll f6 - to the h4-square. ll1cse manoeuvres could lead to genuine attacking chances, so it is important for Black co react precisely.

4 ... li'le7 4 . . . dxe4 is more common, but I find the

knight development to be more flexible and dynamic. By maintaining the tension in the centre, Black also hampers his opponent's intended queen manoeuvres. I might acid that the text move scores excellently for Black and has been tested by such well-known French players as Short and Shulman.

Chapter 1 - 4.!<l2 and 4.'Wd3 1 3

We will analyse Bl ) 5.\Wg3, B2) S.lll8, B3) 5.tt'le2 and B4) 5.�d2, after first checking a few minor replies.

5 .!g5 Black should be able to get at least equal chances against chis rare move.

5 . . . 0-0 6.lllf3 Here I would like to recommend the novelty:

6 . . . b6!?N 6 . . . ixc3t 7.bxc3 f6 8.!d2 b6 also gave

Black good prospects in Smirin - Vaganian, Nabereznye Chelny 1 988. In both cases the plan of . . . b6 and . . . ia6 works well; take note of this manoeuvre, as we will see many more instances of it in the remainder of the chapter.

5 .a3 This move forces Black to give up his Winawer bishop, but i t costs White a tempo and leads to a damaging of his queenside structure. As long as Black avoids opening the centre in a way that would allow the enemy bishops to become strong, his prospects will be at least equal.

5 .... lkxc3t 6.bxc3 White would l ike to play 1Wg3 next, in order to reorganize his pieces and get an initiative on the kingside.

a b c d e f g h

6 .. . 0-0! 1l1is natural developing move protects the

g-:--pawn, thus preventing 1Wg3. On rhe next

move, the thematic plan of . . . b6 followed by . . . ia6 can be execmed almost irrespective of what White does. Once rhc liglu-squared bishops have been exchanged, Black can start thinking about manoeuvring a knight on the c4 outpost. I found a few games on the database but I actually don't think we need co look any further, as it is obvious that White's opening has not been a success.

5.e5 Compared with the main l ine with 4.e5, this looks like a clearly improved version for Black. ll1e only advantage I can see for White is the ability to recapture with the queen on c3, bur this can hardly j ustify the investment of a tempo.

a b c d e f g h 5 . . . b6!

Once again this thematic move works well. I found one example of this position on my database, which continued:

6.a3 ia6 7.\Wh3 ixc3t 8.1Wxc3 ixfl 9.@xfl llld7

Black has a comfortable position and a slight advantage, Muench - Behling, Germany 1 999.

Bl) 5.\Wg3

'll1is move appears in just three games on my database. White tries to create some direct ducats, bur they can be easily parried or - as we will sec on the next turn - ignored al together.

14 4 th Move Options

5 ... 0-0 Black plays another useful developing move

while waiting to see how White intends to justify his early queen excursion. Threaten ing mate with ih6 can always be met with .. . tllg6, so his next move looks like the most logical try.

6.if4 Here I found an improvement for Black

6 ... 'llbc6!N In Lickleder - Heilinger, Austria 2007,

Black preferred . . . dxe4 which is also not bad, but the text move is stronger.

8 ��.i.� ��·� �-��r�-- ·\ ,,/_/--· .v.�P � 7 r�it� �it�i 6 ' "•1/i·�� :·.·�-�-3 � � � � 2 !tt81111n8'B �� "•11=.fm'i ... .. v. � /,. '/, :% . ....

a b c d e f g h

7.0-0-0 7.ixc7 \Wd7 only brings White more

trouble. White has no chance of keeping h is extra pawn and after 8 .if4 dxe4+ followed by . . . tllf5 Black has a great position.

7 ... ixc3 s.'.Wxc3 8. bxc3 dxe4 gives White a seriously weakened

king position. At the same time Black should not underestimate his opponent's play, so after 9.f3 I would recommend 9 . . . e3! as a strong reply which keeps the kingside closed.

8 •.. dxe4:j: Black is slightly better thanks to his extra

pawn.

B2) s.ttio

a b c d e f g h White develops naturally, but I don't think

it combines well with his previous move. Now the queen's path to g3 is blocked, and Black can exploit this with a familiar device.

5 ... b6! Preparing to exchange the bad "French

bishop" while conveniently gaining time against the queen. 'TI1ere is not much White can do about it .

6.id2 'TI1is was played in both of the games I found

in my database.

6.\Wb5tN tllbc6 is no problem whatsoever. (le makes sense to use this knight in order to speed up Black's development, although . . . tllec6!? is an interesting alternative which maintains the prospect of .. J�a6.) 7 .tlle5 ib7 White cannot put any further pressure on Black's position. 111e second player will quickly castle and take over the initiative.

6.\We3N makes . . . il,a6 less attractive, but one has to question the value of those mystic queen moves from White. After 6 . . . 0-0 Black should be happy with the outcome of the opening. Soon he can open the centre with ... c5 while

Chapter 1 - 4 . .ill.d2 and 4 .'<grd3 1 5

rhe exchange of lighr-squared bishops remains an option.

6 ... �a6 7.Wf e3 Lf1 White has tried both recaptures, but in

either case Black can look forward to a pleasant middlegame.

8.©xfl 8.Elxfl

Herc I found a small finesse for Black. 8 . . . tt:Jbc6!N

In rhe game Andreikin - Sh ryrenkov, Alush ra 2004, Black opted for castling, but the text move contains some poison as White must start chinking about the troublesome knight manoeuvre to c4 via a5 .

9 .a3 .ill.xc3 1 0.�xc3 dxe4 l 1 .\Wxe4 \Wd5 Black has a solid grip on the light squares

:ind is at least equal.

a b c d e f g h 8 ... 0-0N

Black exchanged on c3 in Praznik -Pr,nmarer, Sr Veit 2008, but I see no reason w hurry with this exchange, and White may c\·cn spend a tempo on a2-a3 to provoke it if we are lucky.

9.g3 :\ncr 9. a3 .ill.xc3 1 0 . .ill.xc3 tLl d 7 Black has

White's king may cause some problems for the first player.

9 ... c5 Black opens up the centre and is no longer

forced to trade his bishop for the knight on c3 .

10.©g2 lllbc6 Black has a comfortable game with ar least

equal chances.

BJ) 5.llle2

'fois can of course be compared with Chapter 5. Here too, White's main idea is to play a2-a3 and recapture on c3 with his knight.

5 .. . 0-0 Black can also consider 5 . . . CLlbc6 6.a3 �a5 ,

which can be compared to the l ines in Chapter 5, though it docs not direcrly transpose.

6.a3 �a5! I prefer to keep the bishop, since . . . .ill.xc3

would play into White's hands after 7.CLlxc3. 'The database shows that Black has scored j ust half a point from seven games after the text move, which is almost unbelievable, as h is position is objectively fine.

2 solid posirion while rhe odd placement of 7.b4

16 4th Move Options

7.id2 should be met by 7 . . . llibc6 when White must watch out for ideas of . . . e5 opening the centre. Essentially Black should be fine as long as he demonstrates a bit of creativity when needed; for instance, if White opts for long castl ing then the pawn sacrifice . . . b5 should always come into consideration. "fl1e position can be compared with variation C of Chapter 7, and if you familiarize yourself with the analysis beginning on page I 03 you should have all the tools needed to handle the present position.

7 .. . ib6

8.g3 White has to develop his kingside pieces

somehow, and 8 .lllg3? dxe4 just won a pawn for Black in Oppici - Schanin, corr. 1 990.

8 .. . eS! "fl1is central break is a typical counter to

the rather slow g2-g3. White has weakened his l ight squares and is still two moves away from castling, so he should not be given time to consolidate.

9.dxe5 ctJbc6 10.if4 dxe4 This is a simple route to a slight advantage

for Black, but the sharp I 0 . . . d4!?N followed by . . . lllg6 would also have given him the better chances.

1 1 .�xdS E:xd8 12.ig2 lt:Jg6 13.ixe4 ctJcxe5

B4) 5 .id2

"fl1is has been by far White's most common choice. Black has usually responded by castling, and there is certainly nothing wrong wirh that approach. However, I would instead l ike to focus on a rare bur interesting move which I successfully employed against Jonny Hector in 2007.

s . .. l2Jd7!?

Chapter 1 - 4.id2 and 4.Wd3 17

lbis has only occurred in three games our of more than seventy, so i t should carry some surprise value. The knight development is highly flexible; in some positions this piece may go co f6, while in others it can be used co support either of the pawn breaks . . . c5 or . . . e5.

6.0-0-0 White will almost certainly play this in the

next move or two, for instance:

6.ll::ige2 0-0 7.0-0-0 transposes co 7.tUge2 below, and was the move order seen in the quoted game reference.

6.a3 occmred in Sevillano - Rubsamen, Las Vegas 2008, and now 6 . . . ixc3N 7.�xc3 0-0 8.0-0-0 transposes to the main l ine.

a b c d e f g h

6 ... 0-0 7.a3 I considered two knight developments as

well.

7.lLlf3 was played in Petschar - Herzog, Austria 1 997. Here I l ike 7 . . . a5!?N intending to follow up with either ... c5 or ... b6 followed by ... ia6.

7.t2lge2N immediately transposes co the game Kupper - Dgebuadze, Leon 1 996. One logical reply for Black is: 7 . . . dxe4N (7 . . . a5!?N can also be considered, by analogy with the above note.)

8.ll::ixe4 ixd2t 9.:gxd2 E:b8� Intending . . . b5 and ... ib7.

a b c d e f g h

7 ... Lc3 s.Lc3 dxe4 9.Wxe4 lllf6 to.We5!? 1his was Heccor's choice, which I had not

anticipated before the game. White's idea is co lure the enemy knight to g6 and later play h4-h5 with tempo. In my preparation I had only considered the following two moves:

1 0.Wd3N can be met by the useful and multifunctional I 0 . . . a5!. Black may well continue with the pawn sacrifice . . . b5 next, bur can also settle for a more positional game with . . . b6 followed by . . . ia6 to play for the light squares.

I O.Wf3N meets with the pawn sacrifice I O . . . id7! l 1 .Wxb7 a5 when Black obtains the initiative and attacking prospects on the queenside.

a b c d e f g h

1 8 4th Move Options

A possible continuation is 1 2.'1Wf3 ic6 when White remains far behind in development. Black has the initiative and excellent attacking prospects, while his pawn minus does not feel relevant at all.

10 ... �g6 1 1 .'!Wel '?MdS! From her central vantage point the queen

keeps an eye in all directions. White should already watch out for . . . '1Wa2 ideas.

12.h4!? This does not threaten anything immediately,

but it does force Black's queen and knight to keep in contact with the h5-square. Moreover White has the idea to play ie2 next, when taking on g2 will allow if3 trapping the queen.

a b c d e f g h

12 ... :!':l.d8! Another clever move, putting pressure on

the d-file and thus making . . . '\Wa2 a more significant prospect.

13.�f3 1 3 .ie2? is well met by: 1 3 .. . '\Wa2! 1 4.,�f3

(After I 4.h5 tt:lf4+ Black has a strong initiative and a powerful attack.) 14 . . . h5 ! This is the simplest route to an advantage. White's kingside play is blocked while Black is still on the run with his own attack on the queenside.

a b c d e f g h

13 ... id7!N 1 3 . . . bG brought me an eventual victory

in Hector - Berg, Sigeman 2007, but I now consider the text move more accurate. Black simply intends to exchange bishops on b5 and play on the light squares.

14.�eS!? 1 4 .'kt>b ! ib5 1 5 .ixb5 '1Wxb5 1 6.tt:lg5 CiJe7=

intending ... tllf5 is fine for Black.

14 ... ibS 15.ixbS Wxb5 16.h5 lllxe5 17.Wxe5 Here I found a strong idea for Black.

s .iR �� R•� 1m1.w �1.m1. 6 " "� "� !:if "� 5 �1i1��r�! 4 �-�O '��-�-� %�·�} , %z;;,;;:,yj/%.� % 3[� � r:� � 2 ��b� � bm . .... %�, . .... %_,

a b c d e f g h

17 ... :!':l.dS! 18.'?Mxc7 h6!= Black has full control over the l ight squares

and White's bishop is blocked by its own pawn. Black can recapture the pawn on h5 at

Chapter I - 4.�d2 and 4.°1Wd3

any momenc, buc i c could be more incerescing ro play the position a pawn down and develop an initiative on che queenside. Possible ideas include . . . tlie8-d6 or . . . Eld? followed by . . . tlid5.

Conclusion

4.�d2 is playable buc somewhac artificial, and neither of che cwo main l ines hold any hope for a whice advancage. In variacion A White had ro play quice resourcefully co secure a draw, while variation B could resulc in a repetition as early as move 1 0 or 1 1 . If White avoids ic with !O.l!Jh3 Elg6 I 1 . f3, chen l l . . .e3! gives Black a scrong initiative for a mere pawn.

4.\'Jd3 is another unnatural way for Whice ro conduce che opening. Afcer che solid reply 4 . . . tlie7, Black's plan will typically involve che standard move . . . b6, which could be played before or afcer casding according to circumstance. I see no reason why Black's chances should be worse, and in many lines ic is White who muse work harder co maintain rhe balance.

1 9

4th Move Options 4.�g4

Variation Index

8 .1·4J·.t.ih�?-'.'.ii4'1�� 7 '.i:. i &: :,, i11/i' 6 , . . ·/;��. ,· , ,./>��: : . jf:li� : •;A �{lS ",·:jcj("'.;! ��&�d@�£�

a h c d e f g h

1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLic3 i.b4 4.�g4 lL!f6 5.�xg7 :ggs 6.�h6

6 .. . c5 A) 7.e5 B) 7.a3 :gg6!

Bl) 8.�h3 B2) 8.�e3 B3) 8.�h4!? �a5!

B31) 9.axb4?!N B32) 9.lLie2 cxd4!

Nore ro move 7

I 5 ... \Wb6!N

B321) 10.exd5?! B322) 10.e5!N

B2) afrer I O.�b5

a b c d c f g h 10 ... cxd4!N

B322) norc ro 1 3.lllc?t

23 25 26 27 29 30 31 31 32

22 4th Move Options

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ll'ic3 .ib4 4.�g4

a b c d e f g h

This is a direct attempt by White to target the unprotected pawn on g7. Unlike the 4.e5 c5 5.a3 �xc3t 6.bxc3 0Je7 7.1!fig4 main line, however, White's central pawns are vulnerable and the pin of the c3-knight may become a telling factor.

4 ... lllf6 Black simply gives up the pawn for active

piece play; the sacrifice is only temporary.

5.�xg7 gg8 6.�h6 From here Black has several playable

continuations but I have chosen to recommend the most active one.

6 ... c5

a b c d e f g h

Putting maximum pressure on the enemy centre. from this position A) 7.e5 and B) 7.a3 are the two main options, which we will analyse after first dismissing a couple of inferior alternatives.

7.�g5? �g6 8.\Wh4 cxd4 Black already has a crushing position.

9 .a3 9.�xf6?? loses on the spot: 9 . . . dxc3 1 0.�xdS (IO.exd5 0Jc6! 1 1 .�d l 1!fixf6 12.1!fixf6 �xf6 13.dxc6 cxb2t 14.We2 bxc6-+) 10 . . . cxb2t l l .We2 bxa1 =1!f1 0- 1 Foj tu - Vanek, Czech Republic 2008. 'The text move is a better try but White is still in trouble after:

9 . . . Wa5!

a b e <l e r g h IO.�xf6N

1 0Jfl.b5"1? .�d7 1 0 .�xd?I" 0Jbxd7 was hopeless for White in Ong - Myers, email 2003. 1 0.�d l N j/,xc3t ll.bxc3 0Jxe4 1 2.�d2 0Jxd2 l 3.�xd2 dxc3 1 4.Ei:d I h6 leaves Black with two extra pawns plus a strong centre.

1 0 . . . <�xc3t 1 1 .Wdl .�xb2 1 2 .�b l 1!fixa3+ The ducat of . . . 1!fia2 will soon bring Black

even more material.

Also poor for White is: 7 .0Je2? cxd4 8.0Jxd4?

1l1e fact that 8.e5N was essential here tells you everything you need to know about

Chapter 2 - 4.Wg4 23

White's position. After 8 . . . dxc3 9.bxc3 if8 1 O.'IM/'xf6 Wf xf6 l l.exf6 llld7 the first player has managed to maintain the material balance, but his chances in the endgame are obviously inferior due to his pawn weaknesses.

a b c d e f g h S . . . e5 9.ib5t id7 I O.ixd7t lllbxd7 1 1 .lllf5 d4 1 2.lllg?t

l 2.a3? if8 wins a piece for Black. l 2 . . . �xg7 1 3.Wfxg7 dxc3 14.0-0 cxb2 1 5.ixb2

s E� �·� • �·'%1��� ... . �� �; .. ··; % : �1�� �:��\Ii' s ����w�0 �� � �Wf£% � 4 .. � � - • �!���!�-�� I ,� .... ���-�m·'

, } � � . Lj a b c d e f g h

i 5 . . . 'Wb6!N+ Even stronger than 1 5 . . . Wfe7 as played in

Barrel - Szelag, Brzeg Dolny 200 1 . The text move threatens . . . if8, stops f2-f4 and sets up d1c possibility of . . . <tle7 followed by . . . �g8.

A) 7.e5 cxd4 8.a3

s.ro'6 This move has only occurred in one game :o.cccording ro my database.

8 . . . dxc3 9.b3 tlJd7 1 0.t2lf3N A better try than 1 O.Wixh7?! t2lxf6 l 1 .Wid3 id? as played in Lanin - Sukhov, email 2000. Black is well developed and has a powerful centre.

1 0 . . . Wfxf6 IO . . . tt:Jxf6 gives White counterplay after l l .ig5 with the idea of ib5t.

l l.Wfxh7

l 1 . . .Wfh8! Forcing an exchange or retreat of the white queen. In either case, Black has good chances to wrest the initiative.

1 2.Vfixh8 After 1 2.Vfid3 there is an open battle where I'm sure Black is not worse. One interesting continuation is I 2 ... a5!? with the idea of ... b6 and . . . ia6 later. Black's strong centre is an important asset, although he should be a little careful about pushing his e-pawn forward, at least until suitable arrangements have been made to keep the king safe.

I 2 . . . �xh8 1 3.h4 e5+± Having cleared the queens from the board,

Black is now ready to mobilize his powerful central pawns, which are worth at least as much as White's passed h-pawn. Once . . . f6 has been played Black can put his king on f7 and perhaps later e6.

24 4th Move Options

The tempting 8 ... Wa5? is a mistake in view of 9.axb4! Wxal 1 0.lllb5 when Whire rakes over the advantage.

9.�xf6 Arcempting ro keep the queens on with

9.Wh4?!N loses important rime and will only benefit Black: 9 . . . dxc3 1 0.exf6 cxb2 I l..ixb2 Wa5t White has to make rhe awkward choice between blocking his bishop wirh I 2.c3 or moving his king to d I . In both cases Black has an excellent game.

9 ... Wfxf6 10.exf6 dxc3 1 l .tlle2 "CT1is is the besr rry for White, minimizing

the damage to his pawn structure.

I l .bxc3 llld7 1be f6-pawn is about to fall, after which Black will have a small but long-lasting plus in view of his better pawn structure.

1 2 . .ib2 l 2.c4 dxc4 l 3.g3 lllxf6 l 4 . .ib2 llle4 I 5 . .ixc4 .id?+ followed by . . . .ic6 gives Black rhe edge.

1 2 . . . b6! 1here is no hurry to recapture the f6-pawn. Black should instead prevent the c3-c4 break to restrict White's counterplay.

I 3.lllf3 .ib7 Williams analyses this far, mentioning that Black intends . . . �c8. However, it is worth checking what happens if White prevents that idea.

1 4 . .ib5 Threatening llle5. After I 4.a4 I like the prophylactic l 4 . . . a6! which stops all possible counterplay. Now Black is ready to pick up the f6-pawn with a favourable position.

Chapter 2 - 4.\Wg4 25

He has a pleasant choice, as the solid 1 1 . . . ll'id? also leads to at least equality. 1his move ts �he main recommendation of Williams, and ��deed after 1 2.ll'ixc3 a6 Black will win back me f6-pawn with a good game, Campora -Rustemov, Dos Hermanas 2003.

12�b2 i.d7 l l ike this flexible developing move,

'"'.;iring to see what White is up to. Black has orher interesting options such as l 2 . . . b6 as mentioned by Williams.

After I 3.g3 ll'ic6 l 4.ll'id4 ll'ia5 Black will follow up with . . . ll'ic4 with somewhat better chances.

1 3.ll'ig3 �c6 This development of the bishop makes sense when ll'id4 no longer is available. I 4.�d3 h6 1 5.0-0 ll'id7+ Black has a small but clear advantage thanks to his strong pawn centre. White also needs to take care with the f6-pawn which could easily become weak.

13 .. . c!Lla6! 111is is an excellent square for the knight,

which can look to jump to c5 later. It is also useful to keep the c-file open for the rook.

14.Cl:ibS!? Trying to cut across Black's plan, but we can

keep everything under control.

14 ... gcs 15J'kl gc5! 16.Cl:id4 1 6.ll'ixa7? E:a5 runs into trouble for White.

16 .. . i.d6; Black has a comfortable advantage thanks

to his strong pawn cencre and superior piece coordination.

B) 7.a3

a b c d e f g h

This is White's main try.

26 4th Move Options

7 ... �g6! I t is useful to force the white queen to reveal

her intentions. Once she has done so, Black can choose an appropriate direction for the bishop on a5. 111ere are three contenders: BI) 8.Wi'h3, B2) 8.Wfe3 and B3) 8.Wl'h4!?.

BI) 8.Wl'h3 eS

a b c d e f g h

9.Wi'h4N After this move Black has a minimum of a

forced draw, but the alternative is worse.

9.\Wd3?! c4! It is clear that the white queen's early sortie has backfired.

1 0.\We2N "Il1is seems to be the best defence, but Black will be at least slightly better in the end. 1 0.\Wf3? �a5+; 1 0.\Wd l ? Jll.xc3t l l .bxc3 lLlxe4 gave Black a clear advantage in Wuts -Oberbarnscheidt, Ruhrgebiet 1 999.

a b c d e f g h

10 . . . �xc3t l l .bxc3 lLlxe4 1 2.lLJf3 1 2.dxe5 lLJxc3 1 3 .\WB lLle4+

l 2 . . . \Wa5 1 3.Vlf e3 13 .�d2 �g4+

1 3 . . . exd4 1 4 .lLJxd4 lLJc6 1 5 .f3 lLlxd4 1 6.\Wxd4

a b c d e f g h i 6 . . . )°'!e6! l 7.ie3

l 7.\Wh8t? only makes things worse: 1 7 . . . We7 1 8.fxe4 )°'!xe4t 1 9 .. �e2 ( 1 9 .Wd2 \Wb6-+) 1 9 . . . .\11.g4 20.\Wg7 �xe2 2 1 .ie3 (2 1 .ig5t \t>d6!-+ 111e black monarch will find safety on c6 while his white counterpart is about to get checkmated.) 2 1 . . .d4! White can only survive the attack by simplifying to a depressing endgame.

1 7 . . . \Wxc3t l 8 .Wxc3 lLJxc3+ Black is a solid pawn up. White has the

bishop pair, but this is hardly enough for him to claim full compensation.

a b c d e f g h

Chapter 2 - 4.'\Wg4 27

9 ... hc3t If Black is happy with a draw then 9 . . . i::&g4

l o.Wh6 i::&g6 leads to an instant repetition. (1 O . . . i::&xe4t?! looks tempting, but should be avoided since the rook is in danger of being uapped. After I 1 .llle2 !xc3t 1 2.bxc3 exd4 l3.f3 i::&e6 I 4.cxd4 lllc6 I 5 .dxc5± the game opens up, which favours White's bishop pair in the long run.)

'I11e text move is the right choice if Black is searching for more than a forced draw.

10.bxc3 cxd4 l 1 .cxd4 Vff c? 12.ltJe2 l 2.!d2 lllxe4t

12 . . . ltJc6 13.ib2 ltJxd4 14.ltJxd4 'IWaSt! An important finesse.

15.©dl exd4 16.exd5 if5 17.id3 Afrer l 7.Wxd4 0-0-0 l 8.!d3 i::&xd5 l 9.Wb4

·�dSt Black has a dangerous initiative.

17 ... hd3 18.cxd3 Vffxd5 19.\!?ltxd4

20 ... �fS 2 1 .©e2 �dB 22.Vfixd5 ltJxd5 The position is about equal, but I would

;:-cfcr Black due ro his somewhat better pawn ::7u:::nJ.rc and superb knight on d5 .

B2) 8.Vfie3

a b c d e f g h

This is a better try, and has been White's most popular choice.

8 .. . ia5 9.id2 The inaccurate 9.lllh3? was played in

Plasman - Steenbekkers, Dieren 1 998, and now afrer 9 . . . lllcG!N Black is simply better. ('The game instead saw 9 . . . lll xe4? 1 0.b4! with counterplay.)

A more interesting deviation is: 9 .b4!?

This has only occurred in one game, but i t may actually be White's best chance co maintain level prospects.

9 . . . cxd4N 9 . . . cxb4 is also worth investigating. After I O.axb4 !xb4 Black also has a fully playable position with mutual chances, Kun i - Kahl, email 2000.

I O .Wxd4 !bG I UWd3 l I .Wd2 lllxe4 leads to the same thing.

l I . . .lllxe4 1 2 .lllxe4 dxe4 1 3 .\Wxd8t !xd8 We have reach an unbalanced queenless

middlegame. I would say the position is about equal, but clearly a long way from a draw. I would prefer Black, who is somewhat more active with the half-open g-file and the strong e4-pawn holding down White's activity.

28 4th Move Options

A sensible plan for the second player is to continue with . . . a5 next, in order to create further weaknesses on the white queenside.

l l .Wi'xd4 1 l .�xc6t bxc6 1 2.1Wxd4 c5! 1 3 .1Wxc5 d4 is

also problematic for White, for instance:

Black is still a pawn down, but this is outweighed by his strong pair of bishops and White's coordination problems.

8 i.�' �·� � 7��''n!nl 6 /,,.,.%�1frr12r�1.·� 5 r!����f��,. . . .. � w �•r?4 m , ..... %� %;,,.,,� . "m %-: rtj�Jiif/�.�

� .... %.1/rd" . . --·:.rf/%0 �;:.;" ,/ %%�-� 2 r�8m 1tl8r� ��£""%�-� '"""t/.t;!:/ �r,:ef.· �% p� � � �·M

a b c d e f g h

13.0-0-0 I also analysed:

1 3.exd5 �b6! 14 .'.Wd3 a) 1 4.1We5.'!ixf2i"! 1 5 .@fl lt:lxd5+ b) 1 4.1Wc4 exd5 1 5 .1We2t ©f8 leaves Black substantially better thanks to his bishop pair, development advantage and active piece play - not to mention the serious threat of . . . d4. c) 1 4.1Wh4? is worse still, as after 1 4 . . . lt:lxd5 1 5.'!WxdSt �xd8 the pressure against the g2-pawn is fatal for White, for instance:

a b c d e f g h 1 6.lt:lxd5 (16.lt:lge2 lt:lxc3 l 7.�xc3 �xg2 1 8.�fl �xh2-+) 1 6 . . . �xd5 1 7.lt:le2 �xg2 1 8 .1':!g 1 �xf2 t 1 9. ©xf2 �xd2 111e endgame is winning for Black.

Chapter 2 - 4.Wg4 29

14 . . . lllxd5 Despite che temporary pawn minus, Black has a clear advancage. One importanc principle to keep in mind is chat a queen exchange will help to accentuate the power of Black's bishops. An illustrative line is:

13 ... i.b6 14.Wfb4 14.\We5? is a serious mistake in view of

14 .. . ic? 1 5 .Wd4 e5 1 6.\Wd3 d4 17.lllb5 �b8! when che following . . . a6 will win a piece.

14 ... d4 15.i.f4 l 5.ie3 e5! wins a piece, buc it is worth

analysing for a few more moves as White can obtain some compensation. 1 6.lllf3 llld? l 7.lllxd4 exd4 l 8.ixd4 Elxg2 l 9.llld5

19 .. . �d5 20.exd5 \¥/g5t 2 1 .©bl 0-0-0 22J'1he I \¥/f5 The worse is over, and Black's extra material should decide.

a b c d e f g h

1 5 ... i.aS! 16.Wfxd4 Wfxd4 17.gxd4 hc3 18.bxc3 lLlxe4 19.liJh3 lLlxc3 20.gel hg2+

White's apparenc activity is not too serious, and Black has good chances to convert his extra pawn in the endgame.

B3) 8.Wfh4!?

a b c d e f g h

·n1is seems to be the most interesting and critical cry for White, so I was surprised co see ic was not mentioned by Williams.

8 .. . WfaS!

30 4th Move Options

lhe most principled reply. I considered two alternatives which I will mention briefly:

Trying to repeat with 8 . . . Ei:g4 can be met by 9.Wih3 when . . . e5 is no longer possible.

8 . . . �xc3t 9 .bxc3 W/a5 J O.[/je2 [/jc6 might lead to an interesting exchange sacrifice: l l .�b2 [/jxd4 1 2.0-0-0 Cjjxe2t l 3.�xc2 [/jxc4 14 .�h5 W/d8 15.W/xd8t ©xd8 I 6.�xg6 hxg6 Black has reasonable compensation, but overall I consider the main line to be the most trustworthy option.

From here I analysed two main branches: B31) 9.axb4?!N and B32) 9,Cjje2.

B31) 9.axb4?!N \Wxal

a b c d e f g h

111is is a critical option for us to consider, but with accurate play Black will emerge on top.

10. 'itidl

10 ... cxd4 l 1 .lllb5

s,i�.tm•m m 1�1•m m•m• 6 � �i�.iU � //,,� /,-,,,.,; � s mliJmam m 4 w� � � m ;� 3���·0X� 2'��,�ii &,. i ��-� /%rd + ;. _ _ _ _ }

a b c d e f g h l l . . . dxe4! 12.lllc7t 'itifB 13.llixaS ll:ic6 14.llic7 e5

Although White is still a piece up, Black is already winning due to White's lack of coordination and dcvelopmem problems.

15.i.c4 d3! 16.cxd3 lt:ld4 lhere arc too many threats, for instance:

r:-, d a b c d e f g h I 0.'Z.Jge2? ex 4 transposes to I O.axb4? in the note to White's I 0th move in line B32 below. l 7.lllb5

1 0 .W/f4? cxd4 J J .[/jb5 [/jc6 J 2.[/jc74" ( 1 2.e5 [/jxe5!+) 1 2 . . . ©d8 J 3 .[/jxa8 e5 I4.Wfd2 Cjjxc4 1 5 .W/d I \Wa4 leaves White in a horrible position. Black has a significant lead in development and the knight on a8 is doomed.

l 7.dxe4? Wfb I threatens a deadly invasion on c2, while l 7.[/je2 �g4 is also hopeless for White.

17 ... ctJf5! 18.\Wh3 gh6!-+ In a surprising twist, the white queen is lost.

Chapter 2 - 4.Wfg4 31

B32) 9.tlle2

s,i�j_�·� � 7 ���,.;_ �-rm: 6 ;,_J� �� r�r� ;�'&i'V,�-�f�� 5 �:0.J'�! �� �,,,,.,,, 4 � i�� - � 3 :d""�m,,,,�m

%-

�---J , "B'8•��rn ,-- /----%�r� %'%:.il,,,,%-p----- . l ;� � ��-ll

a b c d e f g h

9-cxd4! 9 ... 'Llxe4? should be avoided due co 1 0.axb4!

�xa1 l l .tDxe4 dxe4 and here 1 2.bxcS!N gives �'hire a clear advantage. (In the game Varga -Purik, Hungary 2007, White played 1 2.dxcS? 'iii-hen 1 2 . . . ttJa6!N would have been strong.)

«:re now reach a final split between B321) 10.exd5?!N and B322) 10.e5!N.

W.axb4? is a seemingly interesting exchange ;:acrifice which, however, leads co an advantage for Black. 1 0 . . . Wfxa l 1 1 .ttJbS dxe4

a b c d e f g h l2.�f4 (No better is: 1 2.ttJc?t Q:{fg 1 3.ttJxa8 e5 Threatening . . . ig4. l 4.g3 \Wb 1 l 5 .ig2 �xc2 1 6.�g5 ttJbd7 1 7.0-0 \Wxe2 1 8.l:%c l �g7 19 .. �xc8 tt:Jg4-+) 1 2 . . . ttJdS 1 3 .1Mfxe4 ttJc6+

Black kept his extra material with a clear plus in Misailovic - Mihic, Valjevo 20 1 0.

B321) 10.exd5?!

a b c d e f g h

10 ••• e5! l lJ�bl l l .axb4? Wxa l 1 2 .ttJbS Q:{fg 1 3.ttJc? ttJa6!

14 .ttJxa8 ttJxb4 1 5 .f3 Wfb l ! 1 6.Q:{f2 1Mfxc2+ White is under pressure and the extra knight on a8 can basically be recaptured at any time.

1I...ie7 12.d6 1 2 .b4 Wfd8+ Black has better development

and a powerful pawn centre.

32 4th Move Options

connection with a knight jump from fG. The pawn on dG can be collected later.

13.b4 Wfb6 14.lLJe4 1 4.lt:id l WxdG+

14 ... .ig4! 1 5.lLJxf6t Lf6 16.Wfxh7 lLJd7 Black has a significant lead in development

and threatens to trap the queen with . . . lt:if8.

8 .-B. B•B. B 1�iB'ilBiB� 6 �� � �;i-5 .. . J .. . J.,,j_ %

4 � w � .i.� 3•''9'•�-�

'-.. .. % � � e 2 B�B�D�� ?!W �7� (/,, 'l{' + • �M� ��-M

a b c d e f g h

17 . .ih6 This is the only move that keeps the material

balance, but it doesn't solve White's other problems.

1 7.h3 lt:if8 1 8 .d?t ©e7 1 9.Wxg6 lt:ixg6 20.hxg4 Wc6+

17 ... 0-0-0 Now the threat of . . J::ghs forces White to

retreat the bishop.

18 . .id2 .ie6 19.WfhS Wxd6 Black is dominating the position and can

claim at least a slight advantage, despite being a pawn down.

B322) 10.eS!N

a b c d e f g h The critical test, leading to massive

complications.

10 ... lLJe4! After serious investigation I have concluded

that this is the most accurate continuation.

1 1.a:x:b4 Wfxal 12.lLJbS lLJc6 13.lLJc?t White has a couple of playable alrernatives,

but the final verdict seems to be perpetual check everywhere.

I 3.f3 d3 I 4.cxd3 lt:ixe5 I 5.dxe4 lt:id3t 1 6.i>d I �d7 From here both knight checks lead to forced draws:

Chapter 2 - 4 .Wg4 33

1 7 . . . Wf8 1 8 .Cllxa8 ia4t 1 9 .b3 ixb3t 20.©d2 0xc l 2 1 .Cllc? Cllxe2 22.Wd8t ©g7 23.Clle8t :t:h8 24.tllf6t ©g7 25.Cllc8t=

13 .�xh? Cllxb4 14 .Cllbxd4 't.Wb l ( 1 4 ... \Wa5?! l 5 .Cllc3 a6 1 6.ic2±) 1 5 .f3 ( 1 5 .\Wh8t We? 1 6.f3 llla2 l 7.fxc4 Cllxc l 1 8.\Wh4t ©f8D l 9 .�h8t ©e7 20.'t.Wh4t=)

s E�i.U.•U. U. 7 � · • n1.eiV 6 U. U..t.nEU. s � � 1. w� � 4 ��m'i)��� 3 �/, · ·8.'· · ·u.!� 2 � � ·l{J· � � � :fiifYy, WY< • l ��� ���:

a b c d e f g h l 5 . . . �1xc2! ! 1 6.\Wh8t Wd7D 17 .Cllxc2D Clld3t i S .::2d l tlldf2'1= This is undoubtedly the most aesthetically pleasing perpetual of them all!

I3 . . . c;t>d7 14.lllxa8 lllxb4

17.b3 1 7.'t.Wxf7t Wd8 1 8.'t.Wc?t ©e8 1 9.'t.Wxc8t

©f7 20.\Wxb?t ©g8 2 1 .b3 'Wia2 22.'t.Wc8t ©g7 23.Wxc2 lllxf2t 24.©d2 llle4t= reaches yet another perpetual check.

- � � %, � 8 ltJ�j_� � � 1 m • B•UiUi 6 U UiU :iU 5 � � · � � �� �m�' 'w:i�B 4 if� �i�'il;,, . , ,� �

3 -b - - � 2 U'ilUltJ� b t� 1 m D.@•ll•n

a b c d e f g h

17 ... liJe3t 18.he3 Wi'xb3t 19.©el dxe3 20.Wfxf7t ©ds 21 .Wi'c?t!?

White can also take an immediate draw with 2 1 .'t.Wf8t.

21 ...©es 22.WfxcSt ©f7 23.Wi'c7t ©gs 24.fxe3

White has emerged with two extra pieces, but he will never get a chance to use them.

34 4th Move Options

27.\Wc2?! lL'if2t is only dangerous for White, for instance: 28.'tt>c l \Wa i t 29.'tt>d2? lL'ie4t-+

27 . . . 1.Wb4t=

Conclusion

White's early queen foray is strategically risky, and Black obtains excellent chances by giving up the g7-pawn and assaulting the enemy pawn centre. "D1e only really critical line seems to be the final variation B322, which is equally dangerous for both sides and should ultimately lead to a draw.

4th Move Options 4.id3

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lDc3 �b4 4.�d3

A) 6.�d3 c5 Al) 7.lDO A2) 7.dxc5 lDbd7

A21) 8.c6!? A22) 8.�d2

A3) 7.a3 B) 6.�g5 lDbd7

Bl) 7.lDe2 B2) 7.�f'3

C) 6.�f'3 c5 Cl) 7.a3 C2) 7.lDe2 lDc6

C21) 8.0-0!? C22) 8.a3 C23) 8.�e3

A2 l) afcer 1 0.ic2

4 ... dxe4 s.he4 lDf6

C I ) after I 4.c4

1 4 . . . mbSN

a b c d c f g h

C22) afcer l l .cxd4

1 1 .. . hG!?N

36 36 37 37 38 40 41 41 42 44 44 46 46 47 47

36 4th Move Options

l .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.ctJc3 ih4 4.id3

a b c d e f g h 111is move is rather seldom played, but it

can be a rricky one depending on how Black continues. 111ere are a number of playable replies, but I have decided to recommend the main option.

4 ... dxe4 It is worth knowing that the tempting

4 . . . c5 might lead to sharp play after 5.exd5 \Wxd5 6.�d2 when White sacrifices the g2-pawn and sometimes even chc rook on h I in order co accelerate his development. 111is is exaccly what White is looking for and Black should avoid grabbing the material unless he is extremely well prepared.

It is, however, worth adding that Black can play it calmly with 6 . . . �xc3 7.�xc3 cxd4 8.�xd4 c5 9.�c3 l/.Jf6 when che position is approximately equal; White has the pair of bishops bur Black enjoys good control of che centre.

s.ixe4 ctJf6 Here we have come co a crossroads. Whice

has three replies worch looking ac: A) 6.id3, B) 6.igS and che main line C) 6.if3.

A) 6.id3

"Il1is move is hardly critical, as ic loses time and does nor restrict Black's development in any way.

6 ... cS Black should strike in the centre before

White can consolidate his space advancagc. We will consider duce options for White: AI) 7.llif3, A2) 7.dxcS and A3) 7.a3.

7.l/.Je2 cxd4 8 .l/.Jxd4 transposes immediately co chc first line.

Al) 7.ctJf3 cxd4 8.ctJxd4

8 � ?� A ,illll.�!!� ��� .a �: ..lL. ?§�m w�� r� 7 �·m m 1. �1 1. 6 m m • � � 5 -�-�. , 4 �-� c/� �:�; � 3 -�iJJjj�---""' � /;, , , , � ,;W� 2 ijt�ijm t� ij�� ,. .. , , ./ �-:;;.;; �/'W :·''/'/" ' �� �vg� �n

a b c d e f g h 8 . . . 0-0

8 . . . e5 has been a more popular choice and may transpose, but I think it makes sense to secure the position of the king first.

9.0-0 9.l/.Jf3N doesn't stop Black's plans either. In

view of the exposed position of White's king, we can still continue 9 . . . e5 ! and after I O.lllxe5 \Wa5 1 1 .ctJc4 .\11,xc3t 1 2.bxc3 1Mfxc3t 1 3 .�d2 E1e8i" 14 .ctJd V'lc7 1 5 .0-0 tt:lc6 Black's active piece play and better pawn structure at least equals White's pair of bishops.

By transposition of moves we have now reached a familiar position from the few games played in chis line.

Chapter 3 - 4.�d3 37

9 . . . eS IO.l£ide2 As played in Djuric - Dolmatov, New

York 1 989, and a few subsequent games. Surprisingly, nobody chose the most natural developing move:

A2) 7.dxcS

8.CLJf3N has not been rested, for good reason. After 8 . . . lt:lxc5 White faces the loss of rhe bishop pair, and in rhe event of 9 .�b5t �d7 l O.�xd7t CLJcxcl7 Black has solved the problem of the " French bishop" and is already slighrly better.

8.CLJe2 0-0 9.0-0 transposes to an old game Tartakower - G. Nagy, Debrecen 1 925 . In chis position, considering chat the white king has casrled and rhe knight on c3 is well prorecred, it makes sense for Black to switch plans wirh: 9 . . . �xc5!N= Black has fine prospects and can develop his other bishop co b7 to exert pressure against rhe enemy kingside.

A21) 8.c6!?

a b c d e f g h

'This is a rare yet quite logical way to weaken Black's pawn structure before rhe pawn on c5 is lose anyway.

8 .. . bxc6 I would also like to mention 8 . . . CLJe5!?N as

an interesting way to sacrifice a pawn in return for the bishop pair and active piece play. 'foe text move works well though, as Black's active pieces and open b-file are more relevanr than the slight damage to his structure.

9.�d2

38 4th Move Options

9 .lLlf3 lLlc5 gives Black the pair of bishops and an easy game.

9 ... ltJeS 10.ie2

1 1 .liJf3 liJxf3t 12.ixf3 0-0 13.0-0 White is still undeveloped and it is not yet

time to grab pawns, so 1 3.ixcG? is just asking for trouble. After l 3 . . . ia5 Black will, at the very least, regain the pawn on b2 with a favourable position since 1 4.�b l ?? Wfc7 1 5 .if3 ( 1 5 .Wif3 �dS !-+ does not save White either) 1 5 . . . :gds is simply lost for White, who is defenceless against the simple threat of . . . ixc3 .

13 ... ia6 14.ie2 After 1 4.�e l Wfc7+ White will struggle with

the development of his queen.

14 ... ixc3 1 5.hxc3 White has no choice as l 5 .ixc3? loses an

exchange to 1 5 . . . Wixd 1 .

1 5 ... ixe2 16.'1Wxe2 'IWdS Black has an active position and his better

structure gives him a slight advantage.

A22) 8.id2

a b c d e f g h TI1e most common move, but it is hardly

likely to threaten us.

8 ... ltJxcS 9.ic4 After 9 .ib5t Black can obtain instant

equality by blocking with the bishop, but i t also looks interesting to try 9 . . . lLlcd7!? intending to continue with . . . a6 and a subsequent queenside fianchetto. 1 O.lLlf3 a6 l I .id3 0-0 1 2.0-0 b6 l 3 .lLle4 ie7

a b e d e f g h 1 4.\We2 ib7 1 5.:gad l Wfc7 1 6.ig5 �feS Black was absolutely fine in Averbakh - Borvinnik, Moscow 1 955 . Objectively the position is equal, but the extra central pawn gives Black good long-term prospects and Borvinnik eventually prevailed.

Chapter 3 - 4.id3 39

Ir is also worth considering: 9.ie2N 0-0 1 0.a3 ixc3 l l .ixc3 lllfe4

Black has given away the bishop pair in return for rapid development and active piece play. If White wishes to preserve his dark-squared bishop it will cost him valuable rime.

1 2.'Wxd8 �xd8 13 .ie5 f6 l4.f3 After I 4.if4?! b6 Black's active piece play and extra central pawn give h im the advantage. White is still struggling with development and is unable to make good use of the bishop pair. The first player can slighcly improve this scenario by inserting l 4.ic7!? �d7 before playing l 5 .if4, and now after l 5 . . . e5 I 6.ie3 b6 the position is balanced. Black's active p iece play and central control fully compensate for White's bishop pair.

l 4 . . . fxe5

I4 . . . llld6!? l 5 .id4 b6 is also perfeccly playable. White keeps the pair of bishops, bur rhe weakening move of the f-pawn causes problems with his piece development.

l 5 .fxe4 bG I 6.lllf3 ib7 Black's active piece play is at least as relevant

as his slighcly inferior pawn structure.

10 . . . id7!? This is the most ambitious move, and

probably just the strongest all round.

l 0 . . . lllce4 1 1 .lllxe4 lllxe4 1 2.ixb4'Wb6 1 3 .0-0 'Wxb4 14.'Wd4 llld6 was soon agreed drawn in Dolmatov - Zilberman, Frunze 1 983, bur White missed an opportunity to fight for the advantage with: 1 5 .c3!N 'Wxc4 ( 1 5 ... 'Wb6 1 6.'Wxb6 axb6 17.ib3;!;) 1 6.'WxdGt

1 1 .0-0 Or l 1 .a3N ixc3 l 2.ixc3 �c8 l 3 .ie2 lllfe4

14.id4 f6 1 5.0-0 e5 l 6.�.e3 'We7 when, as usual, White's bishop pair is fully counter­balanced by Black's other positional trumps.

40 4th Move Options

1 1 ... gcSN 1 1 ... �cG was absolutely fine for Black in

Schmelz - Kirwald, Germany 1 999, but I prefer to util ize the open c-file.

12 .. . 'IWc? 1 2 . . . llia4!? is a promising alternative.

13.ctJbS hbS 14 . .L.b4 hc4 IS.'1Wxc4 gfe8= 111e position is in balance. Black's activity in

the centre compensates for White's advantage of having a bishop on the board.

A3) 7.a3

a b c d e f g h

7 ... �xc3t Also worth investigating is 7 . . . �a5!? 8 .dxc5

�.xc3t 9 .bxc3 llibd7 as played quite some years ago in W Watson - Adams, Southampton 1 986. Black has the better pawn structure and the inclusion of a2-a3 from White rakes away the useful option of stb3.

8.bxc3 '1Wc7 In the third edition of Play the French,

John Watson gives this position as equal and mentions the idea of . . . c4. I would like to present a brief practical example where this plan was executed to good effect.

9.'llf3 9.dxc5 prevents the aforementioned plan

while clearing some space for White's bishops. 111e obvious drawback is that i t seriously weakens White's pawn structure while also abandoning the centre. My choice would be the flexible 9 ... 0-0!?N with the idea of . . . e5-e4. However, I should mention char the simple 9 . . . llibd7 I O.llif3 llixc5+ also gave Black the upper hand in Duecksrein -Skalkotas, Nice 1 974.

8 .i �.t.�•� �� 1 v6•��!Wln� ' "U "nf�f "n : .. ��-0 .#ff 4

�--- - - %� / 0��/��� � / , , % . . �% � 3 � ����m 2 - � �? W!J � W!j ;���;�% . %•i

� j � · ·:'. �, j � . a b c d e f g h

9 ... 0-0 10.0-0 Now '.Ve will see Sergey Ivanov, a well-known

advocate of the French, implementing the plan ourlined earlier.

Chapter 3 - 4 .id3 4 1

I O . . • c4! I I.ie2 'Lld5 12.'!Wel 'Lid? 13.a4 a5 14.llid2 ctJ7b6 1 5.'Lle4

a b c d e f g h

1 5 ... id7 16.ctJc5 ic6 17.8 E!fe8 With . . . e5 coming soon, Black was already

somewhat better in Djuric - S. Ivanov, Srockholm 2009.

B) 6.ig5

The point of che text move is, of course, co piay . . . h6 and recapture on f6 with his knight. 1X'hice's cwo main responses are Bl) 7.ctJe2 and B2) 7.!8.

7.CLlf3?! h6 8.ixf6 lLlxf6 is, as Watson pointed out in the second edition of Play the French, at least equal for Black, who has the bishop pair and is ready co break in the centre. 9.£/.d3 occurred in Honfi - Gulko, Moscow 1 97 1 , and now after 9 . . . c5N it is already White who is struggling co maintain the balance.

7.'1¥f3?! is an attempt from White co develop and arrack at the same time, but after the counter strike 7 . . . c5! White's position begins rn look rather shaky, since his king is still unsafe and his piece coordination is rather poor. 8.lL:le2 cxd4 9 .CLlxd4 lLle5 1 0 .\Wd l \Wa5 1 1 .�.xfG ixc3'1' l 2.bxc3 \Wxc3'1' 1 3 . Wfl gxf6+ gave the second play some advantage in Zaicsev - Hauchard, Bucharest 1 993.

Bl) 7.ctJe2

7 ... h6 8.ixf<i 8.1ld2 has been played a couple of times;

I would suggest 8 . . . 0-0!N, delaying the exchange on e4 since chis way White will have more difficulties in coordinating his pieces. 9.0-0 e5! Black strikes in the centre and has a slight initiative.

s . . . 'Llxf6 9.ia o-o 10.0-0

42 4th Move Options

I 1 .liie4 After I l .1¥id3 1¥fc7 Black continues

· f 5 ( I I a51�N is an the preparation o . . . e · . . . . .

interesting waiting move, grabbing some space on the queenside.)

l l .a3 .�d6 only helps Black with his plans. After 1 2.1¥id3 1¥fc7 1 3 .h3 I found a simple improvement:

position and is at least equal. (Instead I 3 . . . b6? is a tactical oversight and 1 4.tt:lb5 gave White somewhat better prospects in Hellman _ Kollberg, Krakow 1 964.)

a e g I I .. .ttJxe4 12.�xe4 '!Wc7N

ll1e position can be assessed as approximately equal. Black has the pair of bishops and can aim to open the game with either . . . e5 or . . . c5 at an appropriate moment, with chances to play for an advantage.

It is worth mentioning that l 2 . . . �d6!? also gave Black a decent position in Romanish

.in

- Beliavsky, Belgrade 1 993. 111is time White has to watch out for the immediate threat of ... �xh2t as well as the usual . . . e5 break, which may even be preceded by ... f5 .

82) 7.�f3

Chapter 3 - 4.id3 43

This seems to be White's best option. Now rhe situation resembles variation C below, and rhe question is who is more likely co benefit from the inclusion of the moves igS and . . . !t'lbd7.

7 . . . h6 In most games Black has delayed this move,

but it makes sense to force White's bishop co make a decision.

8.ixfG This is the only move I found played in my

database. We will take a brief look at the other options:

8.�e3 looks far coo passive, and after 8 ... 'We7 full owed by . . . e5 Black has an easy game.

8.�f4 c5 sees Black exerting pressure against rhe centre and at the same time preparing co develop the queen co b6 or a5. Nore that the narural-looking 9.l2Je2?? is a terrible mistake due to:

� "''''•:i 6 L.%� �� !�� ,� 5 ����� . . . :. z

%%,,,". '- · · ·<1%<"' %W $@ 4 >J� ti% W!.<! � W �O> %Ji1f 0ffi 3 �'----··rn . . . %� '.f��t"//,'i � // . . � .. � 2 LS � LS �CZJ�� LS t�

�� �•m •:a: . , � / .. . . � . a b c d e f g h

9 . . . g5! White's bishops are embarrassed, and 10.�d2 does not help since after I O . . . g4 1 L�e4 ixc3 1 2.l2Jxc3 cxd4 White still loses a piece.

Finally, 8.ih4 c5 gives Black good counterplay i..n. rhe centre and on the queenside. 'The bishop on h4 is cur off from the defence, and once 2$<lin 9 .'lle2?? loses material co 9 . . . gS!.

8 . . . �xf6

a b c d e f g h

9.°1Wd3!?N It looks interesting for White to go for long

castling before developing the kingside pieces.

9 .l2Je2 has been played a few times, and leads back co variation B I above.

9 ... 0-0 1 0.0-0-0 c5 It is essential for Black to generate

counterplay in the centre before White completes development and consolidates his space advantage.

a b c d e f g h

l l .a3 Lc3 12.°1Wxc3 cxd4 13.°1Wxd4 1 3.E!xd4 is well met by 13 . . . 'We? with the

idea of . . . e5 and perhaps . . . e4 afterwards.

44 4th Move Options

13 ... '\Wxd4 14.�xd4 e5 15.�b4 l 5 .Ei:c4 Ei:b8 prepares to develop the bishop,

with a comfortable game for Black.

a b c d e f g h 15 ... �bs I6.ie2

1 6 .tt:le2 a5! 1 7.Ei:b6 e4 1 8 .Ei:xf6 gxf6 1 9Jhe4 Ei:d8+ leaves White an exchange down alrhough he has some compensation.

16 .. . if5 Black has an active game and is at least equal.

C) 6.if3

8 :i�.t�•� �� 1 m"i• 'nf�n, 6 ' 'a 'gfr1f 'g 5 ·:�:�;-: : .��8'n!n° 2 !U8Dln�!� ���z . . . . z�d� · · · · z�Jf'%:�z

p� � '§' � � § a b c d e f g h

"TI1 is is the most principled way to play for White, exerting pressure against Black's queenside in order co restrict the development of his c8-bishop.

6 ... c5 "fhis is the most logical way to create

counterplay, striking in the centre before White gets time to fin ish development. White's two main replies are Cl) 7.a3 and C2) 7.'Lic2.

Cl) 7.a3 bc3t 8.bxc3 Cllc6

a b c d e f g h 9.dxc5!?

9.CDe2 leads to variation C2 1 below. "rhe text move is interesting but carries obvious strategic risks.

9 .. . 'IWaS IO.ixc6t White plays co keep his extra pawn.

"rhe alternative is: I O.CDe2 0-0

Black should not be in a great hurry to restore material equality. It is more important to get the king to safety and complete development; the c5-pawn will not run away.

1 1 .0-0 The novelty l J .gg5N can be met by l 1 . . . Rd8 1 2.V:lfc l llld4!+ exploiting the fact that White has not yet castled. 1 1 .\WdG? is a mistake: l l . . . e5 1 2.ixcG This occurred in Berger - Ribic, Germany 2003, and here Black's strongest continuation would have been:

Chapter 3 - 4.�d3 45

a b c d e f g h l l . . . !'i:d8N

A modest improvement over l l . . . llle5 as played in Petkovic - Maksimovic, Tivar 1 995 .

1 2 .1.We l W/xc5+ Black has regained his pawn with a positional

advancage thanks to his better pawn structure and harmonious coordination between the pieces.

10 . . . bxc6

s i.B.i.m•� �� 7 -�� %.� lw·1 6 '�f�f• '� ' ' o�Y!S��• � � : =��·=·=· 3 �� �� � -�� � 2 r · · · m� mw�!�J\J� �� �if� m � /' , . , y; ,, , ,, ,, � z '" /. %:- '

a b c d e f g h

l 1 .Wi'd4 White clings to his extra pawn, but

development and initiative are just as important here.

1 1 ...0-0 12.�£3 h6 Now White only has one convenient way to

prepare castling.

13.Wi'b4 Getting ready to block the bishop's diagonal.

13 . • • Wi'c7 14.c4 We have been following the game Novoselski

- Dimitrov, Jagodina 1 998. My suggestion for Black is:

46 4th Move Options

14 • . J::UbSN Taking the opportunity to drive the white

queen to an unfavourable square.

1 5.Wfa4 !cs The position is roughly equal with everything

to play for. White has an extra pawn and his tripled c-pawns control some important squares. On the other hand White's queen is passively placed, while Black has a healthy extra pawn on the kingside and his bishop is poised to become active after . . . e5.

C2) 7.tlle2

8 ,i"'j_�·- �� 7 .... . ,.r.,, 6 B - ·� m 5 .�.� • • � 4 - � - -3 - � -iL� � f'""' � � 2 t!:J �� t!:J BLtJ� t!:J � ::;· · · ·/ · · · · "�-� �B'.·w( · · · · '-··· · · "

�� ��� �M a b c d e f g h

7 .. . tllc6 After this natural developing move we reach

a final division, with C21) 8.0-0!?, C22) 8.a3 and C23) 8.ie3 being the most important options.

8 .�xc64" bxc6 gives White a slightly better pawn structure for the moment, but this small plus is outweighed by other factors. Black will always be able to exchange one of his doubled pawns, but more important is h is pair of bishops -especially the unopposed light-squared one. White can force matters with 9.a3N but then after 9 ... �xc3"t I O.bxc3 White no longer has a structural edge, and after I O . . . �a6+ Black has the upper hand.

C21) 8.0-0!?

a b c d e f g h lhis surprising move is not bad.

8 . .. lDxd4 9.lDxd4 cxd4 10.lllbS lhe position is tricky. White has made a plus

score in practice. With correct play, however, Black should have nothing to worry abour.

IO ... e5 1 1 .c3 l 1 .\We2N gets nowhere after 1 1 . . .\We?, and

indeed it is White who needs to take care about the prospects of . . . e4 and perhaps . . . a6.

a b c d e f g h I I .. .ie7!

Black should return the pawn in order to be able to castle safely. White will also be stuck with an isolated pawn in the centre.

Chapter 3 - 4 .id3 47

12.cxd4 e4 13.ie2 0-0 With a roughly equal position , Delemarrc -

Uhlmann, Dresden 1 999.

C22) 8.a3 hc3t 9.bxd

9 . . . eS! Once Black has given away his dark-squared

bishop it is important ro util ize rhe pawns to keep control over the dark squares. "Ibis move also establishes a threat of . . . e4.

10.igS After 1 O .ixcGt bxc6 the position is about

equal, bur nothing like a dead draw.

10 . . . cxd4 1 1 .cxd4 "CT1is position was reached in Jaros- Berrholclr,

Budapest 1 959, and several subsequent games. Black has a few playable moves, but I like rhe following new idea which forces the play:

1 1 . .. h6!?N 12.dxeS 1 2.ixcGt bxcG 1 3 .dxe5 hxg5 1 4.\Wxd8t

�xd8 1 5 .exfG gxf6=

1 2.ixfG \WxfG is rared by rhe computer as slightly better for White, bur I do nor sec a problem and assess the position as equal.

12 ... \Wxdl t 13J'hdl lllxeS 14.hf6 llixBt 1 5.gxf3 gxf6=

The endgame is balanced. White is slightly more active ar the moment, but Black has a bishop against a knight as well as a better pawn formation on the quecnside. lhere is not much White can do with his activity before Black has consolidated.

C23) 8.ie3

8 ... cxd4 9.llixd4 9.ixcGt bxcG is pleasant for Black after

either of the following options:

a) 1 O.\Wxd4 was played in Czerniakow -Markowski, Sopot 1 946, and now after 1 0 . . . \Wa5N Black's bishops are worth ar least as much as White's slightly better pawn structure.

48 4th Move Options

b) I O.lllxd4N allows Black to showcase a nice trick: 1 o . . . e5!

a b c d e f g h l l .lllxc6 Retreating the knight also leaves White with an inferior position. l l . . . �xc3t 1 2.bxc3 Wfc7 1 3.lllb4 Wfxc3i" 1 4.�d2 '1Wd4 Material is equal and Black has an obvious positional advantage.

8 !.�..t�•� �:i � , , , . , /, � / , . , . Y, 1 �1.n n1.m1. 6 R'S)R1.a m : ·���. 3 • "m" �:� 2 !ft'ER "•!• • "•'� "Ri

a b c d e f g h 9 ... l2Je5! IO.ie2

1his is not forced, and in some games White has simply castled, but it seems to me that he cannot hope to create problems without keeping this bishop.

10 ... ltJd5 1 1 .id2 ltJxc3 l l . . .�xc3N 1 2.bxc3 looks at least okay for

Black too, but I would prefer not to give up the bishop pair without a good reason.

12.bxc3 ie7 White will find it difficult to justify the

weakening of his quecnside pawns, as shown in the following practical example.

8 !.m..t�•m �:1 m0��" "¥>0�m« ' : ='=-"=' 4

�. �m • Ji&• J .�.L . �. � 2 8U 8 ��� 8 �� ���VW� �: / Y, � , ,z �

a b c d e f g h

13.0-0 0-0 14.f4 ltJd7 1 5.id3 ltJc5 16.°@f3 id7 17.l'fael l2Jxd3!? 18.cxd3 Wfc7i

Fichrl - Uhlmann, Zinnowitz 1 966. Black chose to trade his advantage in pawn structure for that of the bishop pair, and his chances have remained somewhat higher.

Conclusion

4 J�d3 is not a bad move, but it carries one obvious disadvantage: White allows his bishop to be drawn to the exposed e4-square. To deal with the subsequent attack from a knight on f6, the first player must either move the bishop for a third time, or exchange at least one of his bishops for an enemy knight. Either option can be regarded as a concession, and Black encounters no real problems in any of the lines examined in this chapter.

4th Move Options 4.a3

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLlc3 i.h4 4.a3

4 • • . hc3t 5.bxc3 dxe4 A) 6.f3? B) 6.'\Wg4 tLlf6 7.'1Wxg7 �g8 8.'\Wh6 �g6

Bl) 9.'\Wf4 B2) 9.'\Wh4 B3) 9.'1We3 lLlc6

B31) 10.f3? B32) 10.i.h2 B33) lO.tLle2 '1Wd6!?N

B331) 1 1.c4 B332) 1 1 .a4 B333) 1 1 .lLlg3

B4) 9.'1Wd2 b6 B41) 10.lLle2 B42) l O.lLlh3 B43) 10.a4

B I ) afccr 9.°Wf4

a b c d e f g h

9 ... liJc6!N

B32) after 1 2.°Wel

a b c d c f g h

842) afcer l 3.c4

50 51 51 52 53 53 54 56 57 59 60 62 62 63 65

50 4th Move Options

1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ctJc3 ib4 4.a3

a b c d e f g h With this rather aggressive move White puts

his faith in the bishop pair, without regard for the damage to his quecnsidc structure or the loss of the e4-pawn, the latter of which should only be temporary. This half-forgotten line has, in recent years, been tested by a few top players, so we should take it seriously.

4 ... .L:c3t 5.bxc3 dxe4 From this point White has tried almost every

legal move at some point, but it only really makes sense to consider the two most popular ones: A) 6.f3? and B) 6.Wfg4.

A) 6.f3?

TI1is has been White's most popular choice and has, even more surprisingly, achieved a positive score. This is mostly due to low-level practice where Black has failed to respond correctly. In fact, a database search shows that hardly any titled players have followed this route for White is the past decade; a sure sign of its dubiousness.

White is aiming to open lines for attacking purposes, especially the f-filc, but we can ensure that this dream never becomes a reality.

6 ... c5!

111e e4-pawn is indirectly protected by the prospect of . . . "fl,%4t, so Black takes the opportunity to commence immediate counterplay.

7.CLlh3 White has tried several other moves, with

the total game count approaching a thousand. On this occasion, since \X!hite's entire scheme is mistaken, I do not consider it worthwhile to conduct a thorough survey of the available material. Black is better everywhere, and in most cases sensible development will suffice for an advantage. In this short section I will mention a few of the most relevant examples before moving swiftly on to the 6.\Wg4 line, which is the only serious way for White to handle the 4 .a3 variation.

7.!'!i.e2 was once tried by the ever-creative Jonny Hector back in 1 997. Black has several decent ways to continue, but my choice would be 7 . . . \Wa5 !N 8.!'!i.d2 lllf6+ by analogy with the main line below.

7 . . . Wfa5! TI1is rare continuation works perfectly

to expose the frailty of White's queenside structure.

s.id2

Chapcer 4 - 4.a3 5 1

8 .. . lllf6! lbe cempcing 8 . . . e3 should also yield an

advancage, buc maincaining che cension is even scronger. Whice nor only lacks sufficiem compensation for che pawn, bur also faces serious problems complecing developmenc. The one praccical example concinued:

9.°We2 exf3 1 0.'Wxf3 Hanison - Yon Ziczewicz, email 200 1 . Herc

Black's mosc accurate concinuacion is:

10 • . • lllc6N Incending . . . cxd4 followed by . . . Wd5, forcing

a queen exchange, afcer which Black's excra pawn will provide excellenc winning chances.

B) 6.'Wg4

a b c d e f g h Compared wich Chapcer 2, Whice has a

beccer chance co juscify his early queen foray having already provoked an exchange on c3, removing che pin on chc knighc and forcifying rhe d4-pawn.

6 . . . lllf6 7.'Wxg7 E:g8 8.°Wh6 gg6 Several ocher opcions have been reseed here,

bur I favour che rook move as ir scabilizes Black's posicion while also forcing a decision from che whice queen. We will analyse four oprions, of which che mosc importanr are

rhe chird and especially rhe founh: Bl) 'Wf4, B2) 'Wh4, B3) °We3 and B4) °Wd2.

9.Wh3?N is unplayed for good reason as 9 . . . e5 wins a crucial cempo. 1 0.We3 lLlc6 Compared wich line B3 below, Black has che excra move . . . e5, which is someching he normally aims for anyway wichin rhe nexc few moves.

Bl) 9.°Wf4

a b c d e f g h This move is illogical, as in many lines Whice

would prefer co place his knighc on chis square. Herc I propose an immediate deviation from rhe one example in my dacabase, Forcunaco -Dubcn, email 1 999.

9 .. . lllc6!N Creating a rhreac of . . . tt:Jd5, while also

preparing a cenrral scrike wich . . . We7 and . . . e5.

IO.llle2 1 0.a4? is a miscake in view of 1 o . . . tt:Jd5

l 1 .Wd2 ( l 1 .Wxe4 lL'lxc3 1 2.Wd3 Wxd4+ gives Black a solid excra pawn) l 1 . . .e5 wich a scrong iniciacive for Black, for instance: l 2.dxc5 ( l 2.c4 crcaccs coo many weaknesses: l 2 . . . tt:Jf4 l 3.d5 tt:Jd4+) l 2 . . . �e6!+ Black overprocecrs che knighr, planning . . . Wh4 ncxc.

10 ... 'Wc7 1 1 .lllg3 c5 12.dxe5

52 4th Move Options

a b c d e f g h

12 .. . flldS! ll1is tactical strike leads to complications

favouring Black thanks to the exposed white king.

13.1l;Vxe4 fllxc3 l 4.1l;Ve3 ll'ixe5 Black is at least slightly better in view of the

concrete threats along the e-file. If White is not careful, he could lose the game im mediately.

15 . . . ll'ixe2 I 5 . . . llld5 ! ? is also worth considering, with a

strong and ongoing initiative for Black.

16 . .ixe2 gxg2 Black is a pawn up and still has plenty of

activity.

B2) 9.Wfh4

a b c d e f g h

"01 is move is less than ambitious, as Black can im mediately invite a repetition.

9 .. . gg4 I f Black is determined to strive for a full

point, he may wish to investigate 9 . . . c5 1 O. lll e2 lllcG, leading to an active position with everything to play for.

10.Wfh3?! Objectively White should acquiesce to the

repetition with 1 OJ�fhG, as seen in several games.

a b c d e f g h

Chapter 4 - 4.a3 53

10 ... lLic6!N Better than l O . . . c5 as seen 1 11 Srclring -

Schulze, Hamburg 1 990.

1 l.f3 l l .ib5 VA!d5 1 2.E\b 1 id?+ is good for Black.

l 1 . tllc2 blocks the fl -bishop and gives Black an excellent opportunity co srrike in the centre: l l . . .e5 ! l 2.dxe5 tllxe5 l 3.\We3 \We7 Black's better pawn structure and devclopmenr advanrage guaranrce an edge.

s i:W.t�•m 1?1 7 � · � � · � · 6 /. , , %•ll)��r•/,��w.m 5 m �11f �m� - -w�� 4 m �•m!• 3 r� � m � miV 2 m�m m�� ��;§ �� � !.-, �if'%;, F? �� � �� & �) §

a b c d e f g h

1 1 ...:!"'!:g6! 12.fxe4 e5 13.'1Wd3 exd4 14.lLic2 dxc3

Black is slighrly better thanks to the numerous weaknesses in White's pawn structure.

B3) 9.'We3

This move was used successfully by GMs Li Chao and Banc! in 20 12, albeit against considerably lower-rared opposition.

9 ... lLic6 'CT1is move has several functions. The knight

artacks the centre, stopping Whire from playing c3-c4 for the momenr. Ocher ideas are co support the . . . e5 break or to transfer rhe knight co f5 via e7.

I considered three main replies: rhe incorrecr B31) 10.f3? and rhe more respectable B32) IO . .ib2 and B33) 10.CDe2.

B31) 10.f3?

This rare move was once played successfully by Hector, bur with correcr play Black can obrain an advantage by force.

10 . . . eS! I O . . . tlld5?! allowed Whire unnecessary

counrerplay afrer l l .'1Wxe4 l2Jxc3 I 2.'1Wd3 in Hecror - Jimenez Villena, Zaragoza 1 99 1 .

a b c d e f g h

1 I ..ib2N Whire needs co improve on rhc one existing

example, in which he was swifrly desrroyed: l l .dxe5 tllxe5 12 .ib2 �.e6 1 3.Eld l \We7+ 14 .Eld4? c5 1 5 .ib5 "1" wrn 1 6.Eld2 tlld5

54 4th Move Options

l 7.'.Wxc4 �.f5 0-1 Zoebisch - Gicsemann, corr. 1 969.

l l . fxc4N is not much of an improvement due to I l . . .cxd4 1 2.cxd4 1.Wxd4+ when White's poor development and pawn structure will be his undoing.

1 1 .. .exd4 12.cxd4 llld5! 13.'.We2 e3 White is in serious trouble, as the following

lines dcmonscracc.

14.0-0-0 l 4.c4?? lLlf4 is crushing.

8 .iB.t.�•m m 1 � • - m .1. m .1. 6 - - "'m�m mxm

: m.U�.Um 3 �- 'Jltn Ji@ 2 L . . %�lRVm'l� B �M-��M

a b c d e f g 11 14 ... b5!

le is worch remembering this method of securing chc knight's position on d5.

15.1.Wxb5 lhis allows Black to obtain a winning attack,

buc ic is hard co suggest a decenc alccrnativc.

15 . . . :gbg 16.1.WcS 1 6.1.W a4 id? followed by . . . lLlcc7 and

. . . :ggb6 wins for Black.

16 ... lllce7!-+ Once again the plan is . . . :ggb6. White can

struggle on for a few moves buc he is fighting a lose cause.

B32) 10.�b2

10 ... llle7 Compared wich the previous variation,

White is well placed to deal with an opening of chc centre, so we should refrain from any . . . c5 ideas and instead transfer che knight co f5 .

1 1 .0-0-0 I l .c4?

'CT1is overambitious move meets with a strong reply.

1 1 . . . lLlfS I 2.'.Wc3 e3! I 2 . . . 1.Wd6 gave Black a slight plus in Bronstein

- L. Hansen, Tastrup 1 990, buc chc second player can and should be more ambitious.

1 3 .f3 l 3 .fxc3? is refuted by l 3 . . . lLlc4 fol lowed by a check on h4.

a b c d c f g h

Chapter 4 - 4.a3 55

13 . . . b5! lhis strong follow-up gives Black access to the crucial d5-squarc.

14.0-0-0 bxc4 1 5 .ixc4 llld5 1 6.ixd5 exd5!N 16 . . . Wfxd5 led to a quick victory for Black in Mayr - Ambrosewicz, corr. 1 985, but the position would have been rather unclear had White responded correctly with l 7.'Lle2N.

17.g4 If White does not do something quickly he will be smashed along the b-file.

l 7 . . . llld6 l 8.Wf c6t Taking the d-pawn is the only chance. 1 8.Wfxe3t? :!'!e6 1 9.Wff4 lllc4 20.ic3 :!'!b8 is hopeless for White.

1 8 . . . id? 1 9.Wfxd5

a b c d e f g h 1 9 . . . :!'!g5!

Forcing the queen to an unfavourable square while preparing to switch the rook to the queenside.

20.Wfa2 20.Wfb3 :!'!b8 2 1 .Wfxc3t ie6 22.d5 lllc4 turns out badly for White.

20 . . . :!'!bs+ The game is likely to be decided by Black's

attack.

8 i.�.!.��·- � 7 �·---j-r� r 6 ' ,�, ,�,,·�'� , ����,, �� 5 ���w�i:��� 4 W,fi���Kef"3��� � 3 %'o,, %'o,, �'§'� m /, . . , . /,�·ef"""� ""'"�·,;.:: "�-�

2 -��,.�Ni m , . . . . ,, m %-. . . . . : a b c d e f g h

1 1 ...llJfS Amazingly, I only found a s ingle game in

which this natural move was played. lhe spectacular l I . .. b5!? has been the most

popular choice. In this case Black either gets attacking chances on the open b-file or a positional advanrage in view of his conrrol over the light squares on the queenside. Despite these factors, I find the straightforward text move even more appealing.

12.'l!Nel 1 2.Wff4?! llld6 1 3.c4 allows us to employ a

familiar device:

56 4th Move Options

1 3 . . . b5 ! 14.cxb5 a6+ Black has the makings of a powerful attack.

The proposed novelty is a clear improvement, and secures Black a comfortable position with a small advantage. H is piece coordination is better and the strong e4-pawn cramps White's position and restrains the activity of his pieces.

B33) 10.CLJe2

g3 or f4. At this point I found a completely original approach which has not been tested in any of the thi rty-plus existing games.

10 ... '!Wd6!?N Most players have preferred to retreat the

knight to e7, but I prefer to keep the option of . . . e5. lhe queen move also brings Black one step closer to long castling.

I O . . . tt:'le7 We will take a quick look at the theoretical line, which also seems fine for Black.

1 I .c4 1 I .a4N lLif5 1 2.Wf4 Wd6 1 3.Wxd6 cxd6 gives Black good chances. l 1 .lLif4 lLif5!?N 1 2.\Mfe2 ( 1 2.\Mfh3? f1h6 1 3.lLixe6 �xe6 1 4.�xh6 lLixd4-+) 1 2 . . . f1g8 looks roughly level. l 1 .tLlg3 has been the most popular move, after which Black can bring the e7-knight to d5 or f5. Interested readers can carry out their own investigations from here, but I will not discuss it any further as it is not my main recommendation anyway.

s i:·.i.�·· . 7 � · �1 11 • • • 6 �W,i B i �i:� � � , , , � s lj B. B. • 4 - � �· · "• ;?.I " �· \(Xii ""'/,:"%;' 3 f(g. � �§'� � 2 > 3-�-q)�'t� I �� � ��-.:

a b c <l e f g h 1 1 . . .lLif5 1 2.Wc3 b6

On this occasion Black should refrain from the tempting I 2 . . . b5. The intentions are good, but after I 3.cxb5 tLld5 1 4.Wb3t Black was unable to generate sufficient compensation in Li Chao - Drummond, Queenstown 20 1 2.

Chapter 4 - 4.a3 57

d.d5!?N An interesting try, sacrificing a pawn to open rhe long diagonal. 1 3 .�f4 �b7 1 4.:gd l iWe7 1 5 .l2Jg3 l2Jh4 was fine for Black in Faber - Rarzmann, email 200 1 . l 3.a4!?N is another idea.

a b c d e f g h

8332) l l .a4 and 8333) I I .lllg3 .

l l .�J4 ):i.g8 doesn'c cause Black any trouble as now a4 is always mer by . . . e5. 12 .�e2 ( 1 2.a4 e5 13 .dxe5 VExe5+ Black has the beccer pawn muctun:.) 12 . . . llle7! followed by . . . l2Jf5 is favourable for Black.

I l .�.b2 e5 l 2.h3 1 2 .l2Jg3 reaches the 12 .�b2 line in the notes to variation B333 - see page 60. 1 2.0-0-0? lllg4 1 3.Wg3 exd4 1 4.lllf4 :gf6 1 5 .l2Jh3 Wxg3 1 6.hxg3 l2Jxf2 1 7.l2Jxf2 l':\xf2 l 8.cxd4 ( l 8.:gxh7?? loses to l 8 . . . �g4!-+) l 8 . . . �g4 l 9.:gd2 :gxd2 20. 'it>xd2 h5+ Black has a solid extra pawn.

l 2. . .. �.e6 l 3.dxe5 ll'lxe5 14.:gd 1 Wb6 Black has a comfortable position, having

a lead in development and a betcer pawn l 3 . . . exd5 I 4.cxd5 l2Jxd5! structure.

I 4 . . . iWxd5 I 5 .. �b2 gives White real compensation.

'. 5 .�,1J/e5t 1 5 .iWh8t <:j;;e7 I6 .iWe5t 'it>f8+

i 5 . . . �e6 Black is ac lease equal .

s .! mAm.•m m 1 � .t.W •� 1. m 1. 6 /,., %-il� I. riY .! �

�· , ,. � : •.•fj'·�-%"% �-% •mxr �� 3 JN� '1£3, �§'{ �� rO� % . . . . % L .% . �:??:0 -�

2 m 8 m�� 8 W� :��� -� ���l:t'. !;@/, . . . . . . }'. /,, .. % �;%

a b c d e f g h Lee's return co my recommendation of

r n . . . 'i:lrd6!?N. Obviously this is a fresh position -;.o rhe following analysis is all my own. I :nnsidered duce main options: 833 1) l l .c4,

8331) l l .c4

This move is playable, bur it seems slighcly risky as White has yet to complete his development.

l l .. .b6 Simple development works well; there is no

need for Black to go for anything fancy.

58 4th Move Options

Having said that, Black can also play for complications with the following aggressive try: l l . . . e5!? 12 .dxe5

After 1 2.d5 CiJe7 1 3.CiJc3 c6 White has problems maintaining his centre, as 1 4.c5 1Wd8 1 5 .dG CiJf5 1 6.1Wd2 CiJd4!+ gives Black far too much activity. (1he simple 1 6 . . . bG+ is also good enough.)

1 2 . . . 1Wxe5 1 3.:B:b l ie6 Black should hurry to complete development instead of counting pawns.

1 4.:B:xb7?! Objectively this seems to be just about playable, bur it is too risky for most human players to contemplate. l 4.ib2 keeps the position roughly equal.

1 4 . . . 0-0-0 l 4 . . . ixc4 leads to roughly level play, but the text move is clearly the most challenging continuation.

l 5.:B:b5 lllg4!? If Black is content with a move repetition or a balanced endgame, he can achieve either of chem with: I 5 . . . 1Wd6 I 6.1Wd2 1We7 ( 1 6 . . . \Wxd2t 1 7.ixd2 ixc4=) 1 7.1Wc3 \Wd7 1 8.1Wd2=

1 6.1Wc5

A spectacular move which tells a lot about the position and White's lack of development. Now . . . �xc2 is a serious threat, so White needs to defend accurately to keep himself in the game.

l 9 .CiJg3 ! Weaker is 1 9.CiJf4, when 1 9 . . Jixfl 20.:1%xfl :1%gd6 2 1 . We2 4-Jc6+ gives Black a strong initiative in the endgame.

1 9 . . . 4-Jd? 20.:1%c3 ixfl 2 1 .if4!?

8 -��� • • 7 . ·�· · · · 6 ' /../. /.. �.,. 5 • • • • 4 • • • U�m 3 �� �� • � .• ;. . , . z ,. , , . . / • �L . . 2 - 8 · �� 8 �� I � '�.i_�I! � � ,' . / %"1.7�

a b c d e f g h 2 l . . . ixg2 22.:B:xc?i' Wb8 23.:1%xd7t ©c8 24.:B:c7t ©b8 25 .:1%gl if3

White has nothing better than raking the perpetual check.

Let's return to the straightforward 1 1 . . . bG. "Il1is move lacks the fireworks of the above l ine, but should offer Black at least equal prospects by simple means.

Chapter 4 - 4.a3 59

s ,\Uj,;�IUu'IJ 7 !��.J�"""��,,l �� 6 y�'!i)� ' � i. � 5 .,,, , , /,� ,, , , , /,� '"""� � m � � � 4 Ul�.t.•U U

0, ·� � /""" . � 3 �rJ� ����·� ��-� 2

. . . . . . �����frJ�jrJ :� m mjLm �

a b c d e f g h

12.i.b2 i.b7 1 2 . . . ll'ie7 is playable, but I find ir more

logical ro develop the last minor piece before deciding on a plan.

13.'llf4 l 3.h3 prevents the idea seen on Black's next

move, but even so, after 1 3 . . . 0-0-0 14.0-0-0 IDe7+ Black's opening has been a success. He controls the centre and enjoys both a lead in development and harmonious coordination between the pieces.

13 ... llig4! 1 3 . . . l"i:g4 1 4.g3 0-0-0 is not bad, but the

rext move poses concrete problems which are nor easy for White ro handle.

14.'Wd2 1 4.'®xe4? is refuted by 1 4 .. .f5-+.

I also considered 14 .'®g3 l"i:g8! 1 5 .d5 ( 1 5 . .ie2 lt'ih6+) 1 5 . . . 0-0-0 1 6.�e2 t"lJe7 1 7.ll'ih5 e3! with a strong initiative for Black.

14 .. JU6 1 5.h3 l 5 .g3 e5! looks dangerous.

15 ... llixfl 16.lLihS 0-0-0 17.lLixf6 lLixhl 18.llixe4

B332) l l.a4

60 4th Move Options

Quite a thematic move, but it costs an important tempo and invites Black to open the centre.

l 1 . ..e5 12.ia3 exd4 "This looks like the simplest solution.

Black can also keep the tension with l 2 . . . mrd5!?, reaching a dynamically equal position. Black has a strong centre and is slightly ahead in development, while White has the bishop pair as his trump card.

13.lllxd4 1 3.cxd4?! lt:lb4 grants Black a powerful

initiative, for instance: 14.0-0-0 lt:lfd5 l 5 .\Wxe4t (Trying to win a piece with I 5.\Wb3 a5 l 6.c3 does not work as cxb4 is not even a threat. Black simply continues 1 6 . . . 8:f6 l 7.cxb4 axb4 l 8 .. \kb2 id7 with a crushing position.) l 5 . . . .ie6+ For the small cost of a pawn, Black has an active position with excellent attacking chances against White's king.

s :iUJ.U•U U 1 - 1. - B i U i 6 m�s �:i�' : !��� //h'��·ef' " " :'/'"" ��-3 � :if!f � m 2 �"jB?.'��-�-- - -�� �� p� m =�•11

a b c d e f g h 13 ... lllxd4!

A small finesse, relying on the prospect of a fork on c2.

14.Wfxd4 l 4.cxd4 \We6 leads to a similar position with

queens on the board. Taking into account the

relative safety of the kings, I would expect this to favour Black.

14 ... Wfxd4 15.cxd4 a5! Fixing the a4-pawn as a potential weakness.

I believe the chances to be about equal, but either side could have chances to outplay the other.

B333) l 1 .Cllg3

1 1 .. .e5 12.Cllxe4 White can also delay the capture with:

1 2JLb2 <\le6 1 3 .0-0-0 0-0-0 14.lt:lxe4 lt:lxe4 l 5.\Wxe4 �g4

l 5 . . . exd4 l 6.cxd4 8:g4 could transpose.

Chapter 4 - 4.a3 6 1

16.\We3 exd4 1 7.cxd4 lllxd4 Now Black threatens . . . lllb3L while another idea is just co stabil ize che position of che knight with . . . c5.

l 8.:l!xd4 l 8.�d3 c5 gives Black a Joe of activity.

l 8 . . . :!!xd4 l 9.�xd4 \Wxd4 20.\Wxd4 :l!xd4 '!he endgame should be drawn, although

Black is a bit more active at this point.

8 "�-'�' : ' ,�,11i�d' 5 ��-,, ,,· -

� 4 �--�tt)-,,�-ff/�Yfi"d' ': - ;·�� � f/Ji��'•ifj�Wfj 'a��.�-'i

a b c d e f g h

12 . . . ltJxe4 13.Wfxe4 ie6 14.dxe5 lllxe5 Black is a pawn down and another one is

hanging on b7, but his lead in development more than makes up for it, and it is actually White who muse act carefully co maintain che balance.

15.Wfxb7? 1his is certainly not the best move, bur I

decided co analyse ic mainly for illuscracive purposes co show how Black can exploit his advantage in mobility. Here are three ocher options:

After I 5.if4 id5! l 6.�xe5 ( l 6.\Wd4 :l!e6t) l 6 . . . �xe4 l 7.�xd6 E:xd6 1 8.:l!d 1 0-0-0 l 9.E:xd6 E:xd6+ White has to defend an unpleasant endgame.

1 5 .f4 lllg4 ( 1 5 . . . llld? 1 6.f5) 1 6.h3 ( 1 6.f5? 0-0-0)

s E • . ··� � 7 . ... . � · � · 6 L)�j .)�ri� t� � L .. ?. � . s . • B B 4 • •v��'il� 3 � ['� - �.8 2 .8. -8� I �� � WJ.-i , . . . • Y. · · - - ·� -·- . _, �

a b c d e f g h 1 6 . . . lllh6 17 .\We5 \We7 1 8 .�e3 0-0-0 1 9.ic5 We8� Black has fair compensation for the sacrificed pawn.

l 5.�c3! is safest, and should lead co a draw after: 1 5 . . . 0-0-0 1 6.\Wd4

62 4th Move Options

15 ... idS 16.\Wb4 cS 17.\Wa4t ic6 18.ibS 0-0-0 19.\Wa6t @bs

1he checks have run out and White must think about defending.

26.ggl After 26.©g l £\ed6 White is unable to

defend himself against both the check on d I and the knight invasion to f3.

26 .. . ttJeS 27.\WxcS gb6!-+ White has no way to extricate himself and

will soon succumb to the threats.

B4) 9.\Wd2

a b c d e f g h

This is the most common queen retreat and can be considered the main line.

9 ... b6 Black prepares the development of his

bishop. Although b7 might seem like the obvious home for this piece, I would like to point out that in some cases the a6-square can make an attractive al ternative, with ideas to exchange the light-squared bishops and fight for control over the c4-square.

White's three main replies are B41) 10.llJe2, B42) 1 0.ttJh3 and B43) 10.a4.

I O.�b2 is well met by I O . . . �a6 I 1 . c4 ( I l .�xa6 CLlxa6 1 2.g3 'Wd6=) I l . . . c5 ! when White's centre was already under pressure in Paneque - Arencibia Rodriguez, Havana 1 990.

B41) 10.ttJe2

"l11is has been the most popular choice, but Black has quite a convincing answer to it.

10 ... ia6! 1 I .llJf4

Chapter 4 - 4.a3 63

I l .�b2 lt'id5! 1 2.lt'if4 lt'ixf4 1 3.1¥fxf4 �xfl 14.1'%xfl occurred in Eslon - Garcia Gonzales, Biel 1 984, and here I would like to suggest:

8 .i� '�·· -7 �0 . �.1- j···· 6 //////!� • ' • .i � 5 ��� -"/,·filij·/(.//c 4 � 'f!l .t. �§{� Wi% 3 ��//20�r ,., . . ·"1� ·

.J

2 • tj . Wj tj ;tj ;i¥ii>t-- ·"�/�m� ;:::,; :; 1 �� � �)5(;; § if::�;:,; a b c d e f g h

1 4 . . . 1'%xg2N 1 5 .'Wxe4 \Wc15 1 6 .\Wxh7 lt'id7 1 7.0-0-0 0-0-0 Black is at least equal in view of his superior piece coordination. In the event of 1 8.1.¥fxf7 ms 1 9.1¥fh7 Black should not hurry to restore the material balance but simply keep the pressure with l 9 . . . 1'%f3!� intending ... !Lif6-e4 with a strong initiative.

l2.lLlxg6N I have not seen this move played, but it is

:cbviously the critical test, as otherwise Black will have achieved the favourable exchange of

light-squared bishops for no cost at all.

1 2.'tt>xf! ?! E&gS 1 3.1¥fe2 occurred in Kuzmin - Perrosian , Moscow 1 98 1 , and now after the simple 1 3 . . . lt'icGN+ Black has the upper hand thanks to his safer king and better piece coordination.

12 ... hg2 13.ggl hxg6 14.1"!:xg2 'l'Nds Black has promising play for a small material

investment. A possible continuation is:

B42) 10.'llh3

a b c d e f g h

64 4th Move Options

Compared to the more common 1 O.tlle2, this move avoids rhe . . . ia6xfl exchange sacrifice that we saw in the previous line.

10 ... tllc6!?N 1 O . . . ib7 has been the usual choice, bur I

slightly prefer the knight development. My idea is to prevent the c3-c4 advance as well as to support a later break with . . . cS. 111e text move is technically a novelty, but it soon transposes to a few known games.

1 1 .�b5 1l1is seems like the most logical try for

White.

1 1 .tllf4 �g8 1 2.ibS ib7 leads to the same position .

1 1 ...�b7 12.tllf4 I also considered:

1 2.c4 a6!? 1 2 . . . We7 1 3 .tllf4 ( 1 3.'Wb4 tlld7=) 1 3 . . . �g8 transposes to the main line - see 1 2.tllf4 �g8 1 3.c4 We7N below.

1 3.ia4

a b c d e f g h 1 3 . . . bS !

A promising sacrifice. 1 4.cxb5 axbS 1 5 .ixbS �xg2 1 6.tllf4 �g8 1 7.c4 Wf8!

White must take care. A possible continuation is:

12 ... �gS We have now transposed back to a few

existing games.

13.c4 White would like to preserve the pin, so he

prepares to drop his bishop back to a4 in case it is attacked.

s :im Ji�•m:im 7 �.ttl -· - · 6 W'il� i� • : •i!:,�: 3 .�. J • • �

R ,,, ,,; �-% �,�

z r--�������¥��& p� � �:. �n a b c d e f g h

13 ... Wfe?!N Black preferred l 3 . . . a6 in Chiburdanidze -

Levitina, Volgograd 1 984, and one subsequent game, but I do not see any value in weakening Black's structure unless a quick . . . bS is on the cards. 1l1e text move is more solid.

Chapter 4 - 4 .a3 65

14.0-0 1 4 .1iWb4 ltl d 7 is equal.

l 4.d5? wins material for White, but after 1 4 . . . 0-0-0 1 5 .dxcG !'i:xd2 1 6.cxb?t ©xb7 l7.ixd2 c6 l 8.ia4 e5 White loses the ;mportant g2-pawn. In the ensuing position Black has a clear advantage thanks to his powerful pawn centre and berrer piece coordination.

14 ... 0-0-0

is . . . ixc6 16.Wb4 l 6.\Wc3 e5! l 7.dxe5 ltlg4+ gives Black a

s[rong initiative on the kingside.

16 ... Wd? We have reached an unbalanced position with

approximately equal chances. The following line is pure fantasy, and is merely intended co show how Black may react to inaccurate yet plausible play from his opponent.

17 . .ie3 lllg4 18.a4 a5 19.'1Wa3?! l 9.\Wc3 would keep the game unclear.

19 . .. f6 20.h3?

22 ... lllxe3 23.'1Wxe3 '\Wf7 24.cS W/f3 25.g3 �d2-+

White is forced to accept a lost endgame.

B43) 10.a4

This is far from the most common move in the position, but rhe plan of pushing the pawn to a5 is logical and thematic. White also vacates the a3-square for his bishop.

10 ... tlic6 Black restrains the a-pawn for the moment

while continuing h is development.

66 4th Move Options

1 1 .lLie2 Here I would like to propose a novelty for

Black.

8 Am.t.�•m m 7 w m �'m' 6 % . . . . %-�� f�i� 5 • 'ri! 11!11! , • � 4 !Ill Ill� f Ill �. � �WK� . . . . %� �m � 3 -� r,q�.,,, .,, -m·�m·'.0 2 % " ' " -�Jfliij:JJ[j�t!J. �� I] =.i,�n

a b c d e f g h

1 1 ...�a6!?N l l . . . 1b7 led to an interesting fight and

an eventual draw in Hector - Berg, Sweden 20 1 2. I believe in Black's chances in this line, but I recommend the text move as a more straightforward solution. We are essentially borrowing an idea from the earlier variation B4 l , except that the inclusion of the moves a3-a4 and . . . lllc6 is likely to favour Black.

12.lLif4 l 2.h4 llld5 l 3.h5 l"lg4 does not achieve

much for White.

l 2.g3 e5!? 1 3 .lllf4 ixfl l 4.lllxg6 1g2 also turns out fine for Black, for instance:

1 5 .lllxe5 ( 1 5 .l"lgl hxg6 1 6.l"lxg2 exd4) 1 5 . . . lllxe5 1 6.dxe5 .�xh l 1 7.Wi'xd8t l::!xd8 l 8 .exf6 1f3 l 9.i/,f4 'tt>d7 20.a5 iic6 2 l .axb6 axb6 The endgame should probably be a draw, but i t is White who has to be a bit more careful due to the potential mating threats.

a b c d e f g h

12 ... hfl. 13.lLixg6 Declining the offer gets White nowhere:

1 3 .l"lxfl l"lg8 1 4.Wi'e2 ( 1 4.f3 '1Wd7 1 5 .'1Mfe3 e5) 1 4 . . . Wd? 1 5 .f3

a b c d e f g h 1 5 . . . llla5! 1 6.fxe4 Wc6 Black is better.

13 ... hg2 14.:ggl hxg6 1 4 . . . fxg6!? l 5 .l"lxg2 e5 is another way to

handle the position, but the text move is more solid and reliable.

15.:gxg2 1.WdSiii

Chapter 4 - 4.a3

Black has full compensation for the sacrificed exchange, much as in the earlier l ine B4 l . A possible continuation is:

Conclusion

4.a3 leads to a strategically unbalanced game and should not be underestimated. It is importanr for Black to pay attention to nuances, such as where the white queen retreats to, and react accordingly. 1he main question is whether to open the centre with . . . tt'lc6 and e5, or aim for active piece play by developing the light-squared bishop and rerouting the queen's knight to f5 via e7. Another important resource is the development of the bishop to a6, particularly in conjunction with a positional exchange sacrifice. As long as Black chooses the appropriate plan against the particular set­up chosen by his opponent, he should have no problem obtaining a sound position with at least equal prospects.

67

4.�e2 Introduction

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.tllc3 i.b4 4.tlle2

A) 6.exdS B) 6.Wfd3 dxe4

Bl) 7.Wfg3?! B2) 7.Wfxe4

C) 6.b4 i.b6 Cl) 7.tlla4 C2) 7.i.b2 tllge7

C21) 8.tlla4 C22) 8.g3 C23) 8.Wfd3

B l ) after 1 2.iih l

1 2 . . . lDc?!N

4 ... tllc6 5.a3 i.aS

B2) after 9.bxc3

a b c d c f g b

C23) nocc co 1 1 .lDxb6

70 73 73 75 76 77 78 79 80 81

70 4 .tlle2

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.�c3 .ib4 4.�e2

"Il1e obvious intention behind this move is to remove the pin by playing a2-a3 on the next turn, avoiding the doubled c-pawns that characterize the main l ines of the Winawer. A clear drawback for White is that if Black avoids exchanging on c3, the knights on c3 and e2 will be in each other's way, while the e2-knight will also block the development of the bishop on fl .

4 ... �c6 ·n1is is the move I have relied on since 2003 ,

after having lost to it on White's side against Nigel Short in the Sigcman Tournament of 2002. There is nothing wrong with the more popular options of 4 . . . dxe4 and 4 . . . lllf6, but I believe my recommendation offers more chances to reach an unbalanced position and play for the win.

5.a3 I do not see any point in trying to do

without this move for White, al though it is worth mentioning that 5 .exd5 exd5 6.a3 �a5 transposes to variation A below, while 5.e5 lllge7 6.a3 �a5 leads to Chapter 6.

5 ... .ia5 From this position White's two most

important options are 6.e5 and 6.�e3, each of which forms the subject of a dedicated chapter, beginn ing on pages 85 and 99 respectively.

In the present chapter we will deal with three significant sidelines: A) 6.exd5, B) 6.Wfd3 and C) 6.b4.

A) 6.exd5 exd5

8 i.�.i.�·-'i)�� 7 mfs '�fmi' 6 ;-a,:•;� : �]'''� 3 � � � � , '0d' �-0" �iii!" 2 f'"ltj��!fJJ[j�tj !?� �·ii\��� lt

a b c d e f g h

This line has not been a popular choice for White, although it has been tested by the Lithuanian GM Sulskis. It seems to me that Black enjoys a good version of the Exchange Variation, as he has played natural developing moves while White's development is slightly hampered because the knight on e2 blocks the king's bishop for the moment.

7.g3 'This is the most popular move, but I am

not sure if it is such a good one, as it seriously weakens the kingside light squares. I also considered two alternatives.

7.lllg3 lllf6 gives Black a pleasant posinon, and the following game provides an excellent illustration of how he may develop and improve it. 8 .�e2 0-0 9.0-0 :ge8 1 0.�f3 �e6 l 1 .llla4 h6 1 2.lllc5 �c8 1 3 .b4 �b6 1 4.�b2

Chapter 5 - I ntroduction 7 1

8 �•.t.��-·- ··• !*l"� !*l "" � �-0

: ��"=�/ �N��.1 5 .... , -"�!�-»- �/ z ���» � �;,;����:

: ¥11¥.&�¥.&�'� 2 '- z-!���rJ� � I ¥:r --"·'-��� ,

a b c d e f g h 1 4 . . . tlie7! This is an important manoeuvre to keep in mind in rhe exchange srrucrure. ·n1e knighr was no longer doing anything useful on c6, so Black intends eirher to exchange it, or co reroute it to d6, where i t wil l eye the c4- and e4-squares. 1 5 .�e l c6 ! 6.tlid3 tlif5 17 .tlieS tt:Jxg3 l 8.hxg3 .�.f5 l 9.c4 dxc4 20.tlixc4 ie4 2 l .ixe4 tt:Jxe4 22.'1Wf3 \Wd5 Black had a stable advantage in Galazewski - Grigorian, Sibenik 2007.

Whire can also hint at long castling with: 7.'1Wd3

8 :i•.t.�••1.&�� 7 � · t� · · ��·

�-'.&� �- �/ : ��--f����1m 4 ' ,z�-w�

���J

0/(ff;��f.'%_�:7/if_W,_�/�% � 3 f(:ji '.� I§ - �

/ , . _, » .. ,; ;j,i,%. � 2 w� t::i �CZJ� t::i w� % . . , . % .� ;, _ , . , %_ .% . . . . ::: 1 �m � ��•g

a b c d e f g h 7 . . . tt:Jf6!?N

7 ... tlige7 is the only move to have been tested, but I prefer the more active development which leaves the e7-square free for the other knight. 1his is a fresh position so I will just give a few sample l ines as possible conrinuations.

s .igs o-o

Black should not be afraid of complications here, as he is well developed and ready to sacrifice the d5-pawn if necessary. That being said, there is of course nothing wrong with 8 . . . ie6= .

9.b4!? Principled, but perhaps too risky. ll1e more prudent 9 .0-0-0 h6 1 0.ih4 �e8 seems about equal. After 9 .'1Wf3 ig4! 1 0 .'\Wf4 ( l O.ixf6 ixf3 l l .ixd8 ixe2 l 2.ixe2 �axd8 can only bring White trouble) 1 O . . . ixe2 l I .ixe2 �e8 1 2.ixfG '1Wxf6 1 3.'IWxfG gxf6 Black's development advanrage is more relevant than his doubled pawns, for instance:

72 4.tLle2

9 . . . �b6 1 0.�xf6 \Wxf6 1 l .tt:'ixd5 \Wd6 1 2.c4 After 1 2.lllxb6 axb6 White's extra pawn is not much of a consolation for being so far behind in development.

l 2 . . . �e6 l 3.lllxb6 axb6 l 4.'\Wc3 1 4.d5 llle5 J 5.�fc3 �d7 transposes. 1 4.:gd l mest

1 4 . . . �d7 1 5 .d5 llle5 1 6.lllg3

8 i: � � ���-7 -l�.i.IA i lfi 6 w� � � � 5 �� %·�%�#/.-, .j$.

4 ��!· ;��� 3 WNi· · · · :\IDil���>.R(Wi!d %0, �'f1§1 � ·�· 2 '- %�J ././//&rJ� W!] I ������;i-i

a b c d e f g h

1 6 . . . b5! I 7.cxb5 :g[eg J 8.�e2 lllg4t

s.ig2 8.\Wd3 avoids the doubling of White's pawns

bur after 8 . . . \Wd7 followed by . . . �f5 the white queen is not well placed, while Black's pieces enjoy fine coordination.

8 . . . ixc3t 8 . . . lllge7 has been played a few times

with excellent results. 1l1e idea is simply to postpone the exchange on c3 until after White has castled, but after the correct 9.b4 �b6 1 O.�e3N Black has missed his opportunity, which is why I prefer to exchange immediately.

9.bxc3

a b c d e f g h

9 . . • 'Wd7 I like this continuation with the idea of

playing on the light squares, not only on the kingside bur also with the . . . llla5-c4 manoeuvre.

After 9 . . . lllge7 Sulskis tried out a rather bold idea with 1 O.f3 (1 O.h3 followed by 0-0 looks more normal to me) 1 O . . . �f5 J l .'it>f2!? 0-0 l 2.g4 in Sulskis - Potkin, St Petersburg 2000. 1l1e plan is interesting although it doesn't look completely sound to me.

10.h3 ie6N Black placed rhe bishop on f5 in Westcrinen

- Krisrjansson, Gausdal 2003, but I prefer a less exposed square for this piece.

1 1 .lLif4 Cllf6 12.0-0 0-0= -n1e position is balanced and an interesting

strategic battle will follow.

Chapter 5 - Introduction 73

B) 6.'!Wd3

8 :im.t��m'll�� 7 � · �� m • �� · 6 " "•il•!• "• 5 � m 1.m m 4 m �� b m m 3 � m'iV� � /. , , ,/. ;'l, , , , , , � .� 2 n b mllJD b �� ; · /. %'� ;/'/Y-,;, � 1 �� � ���� �

a b c d e f g h

ll1is move has been cried by Nisipeanu amongst others. White maintains che tension in the centre and prepares for long castling.

6 . . . dxe4 6 . . . tt:lge7 is a decent alternative and could

transpose to a line considered elsewhere, one example being 7.�c3 which leads to variation C of Chapter 7. I decided to focus on the pawn exchange as ic provides a clear-cue route rn equality, but if Black wishes to keep more complexity in the posi tion I see nothing wrong with the knight development.

After the text move it is wonh considering both Bl) 7.'!Wg3?! and B2) 7.'!Wxe4.

BI) 7.'!Wg3?!

-fois was Nisipeanu's choice but it is not fully correct.

7 ... c!lixd4! 7 . . . tt:lf6 8.�gS h6 9.�xf6 Wxf6 reached

a sharp position with balanced chances in Nisipeanu - Williams, Dresden 2007.

8.ctJxd4 '!Wxd4 9.i.f4

10 . . . c6 1 1 .0-0 exf2t 12.@hI 1 2.:J"\xf2? �b6+

74 4 .llle2

12 • . . llle7!N An important improvement over the only

existing game.

After I 2 . . . ll'if6?! l 3 .ie2 ixc3 J 4.bxc3 W/d8? ( 1 4 . . . W/e4 is a better defence) 1 5 .8'.ad l id7 White was already much better, but surprisingly decided to force a draw by perpetual: I 6.�c7 ( 1 6.ie5!N±) 1 6 . . . Wfe? 1 7.�d6 W/d8 1 8.ic7 W/e7 I 9.id6 W/d8 Y2-Y2 Polasek - Cifka, Czech Republic 2007.

13.i.d3 White is struggling after other moves too:

1 3 .8'.ad l ll'if5! 1 4.W/f3 W/b6 1 5 .id3 ixc3 1 6.bxc3 0-0+

Black's main point is: 1 3 .ie5 ll'if5! 1 4.W/xg7

1 4.ixd4 ll'ixg3t 1 5 .hxg3 cxb5 1 6.b4 ( 1 6.ll'ixb5 0-0+; 1 6.�.xg7 8'.g8 1 7 . .'�.f6 �d7 I 8 .8'.xf2 ib6+) 1 6 . . . ic7 I 7.ll'ixb5 ixg3 l 8 .�xf2 �d7!-+ Black is two clear pawns up and not even the opposite-coloured bishops can save White, as the kingside majority will be overwhelming.

1 4 . . . ll'ixg7 1 5Jhd4 cxb5 1 6.ixg7 8'.g8 1 7.id4 id7 1 8 .ll'ie4 0-0-0

1 9 .ll'if6 1 9 .ll'id6t?! Wb8 20.ll'ixf7 �c6! 2 I .ie5t (21 .ll'ixd8?? ixg2#) 2 l . . .Wa8 22.8'.xf2 8'.df8+

The strong pair of bishops combined with the threats on the f- and g-files gives Black a serious advantage.

1 9 . . . 8'.g5 20.ll'ixd7 8'.xd7+ Black is a clear pawn up and has excellent

winning chances.

16 ... i.e6 17.Wl'xfl 1 7 .ic5 ?! ixc3 1 8 . bxc3 bG 1 9 .id4 WI g6

20.ixg7 (20.W/d6 id5-+) 20 . . . 8'.g8 2 I .ie5 id5+

17 ... i.b6 18.Wl'f4 gS 19.Wl'b4 0-0-0 20.llla4

Chapter 5 - I ntroduction 75

20 .. . gd7! 21 .lDcS 2 1 .ctJxb6t axb6 22.Wa4 (22.Wxb6 ghd8

23.ig3 f4+)

8 �·� � �11 1 �& �.i• a • & 6 �i�.t.�� � 5 • 3 .. :.·.'J.-.��%f;, � �- � ?! ,; 4 if� B • f1I 3 'd//fi � � � ,. % �- � . 2 ��,� B - LS � I - �!t�!t�@

a b c d e f g h 22 . . . :gxd6D 23.:gxd6 \Wxb2+ A rather messy line, but it all works out well for Black, who keeps a significant material plus after correct defence.

21 . .. LcS 22.LcS 22.Wxc5 :ghd8 23.gd4 ic4! 24.ie5 We6

25 .:gxc4 :gd5 26.Wxa? Wxe5+

8 m*�, � %� �·- � � �-3 7 �.11.m.im1.m1. , , , , %� � � �; 6 � .\ �}-.;,, , ,J�,0� s m � m1. �1i 4 %%�{�,, .. �� %,�;;:,, , , �� 3 d 1u�� �� �

L .. % � � ��-�

2 �8- - 8�� • mitmit•@ a b c d e f g h

22 .. . ghdS 23,gxd7 gxd7 24.La7 Wid8 25.i.b6 gdl!:j:

Black's extra pawn gives him the advantage, although the existence of opposite-coloured bishops offers White realistic drawing chances.

B2) 7.Wfxe4

8 -m%�J���,l� 7 �.I i - � i�� i 6 /. .

.. . /.m'Slm 1. m m

s � m m m 4 '""'"� �if/� � 3 '{fl

�ttfi '• �. � 2 /. , , , %�Li�"��� firfj

, / 'm"�� 'W , �� � ?,, , jiL�It a b c d e f g h

7 ... l2Jf6 s.Wlh4 Lc3t 9.bxc3 -Ihis gives White a compromised pawn

structure, which Black can aim to exploit by playing on the weakened light squares.

9. ctJxc3!?N 1he pawn sacrifice has never been tried but it is worth mentioning, as it offers White open piece play and prospects for long-term compensation with the pair of bishops.

9 . . . \Wxd4 After 9 . . . ctJxd4?! I O.�d3 White benefits from fast development and attacking chances on the kingside. Instead we should threaten to swap queens to reduce his initiative.

10 .Wg3

8 .i �.!.�·· ¥.� 7 �� , �� .. , �� & 6 /. /.-�-?/t�1f /.� 5 .%��.0 -� 4 0 · � � � 3 ��o/;t/ /.��

� 2 , /.�0� �rt!lii/.� ;,�;:t· · · · /.::;:!,f:;��/.f.;%-�/ 1 7� � ��� � a b c d e f g h

I O . . . ctJe4!?

76 4 .ctJe2

1 0 ... 0-0 and I O . . . tt'ld5 are decent alternatives. I do not intend to subject this position to excessive analysis so I will just offer a few sample l ines.

l 1 .l2'lxe4 'Wxe4t 1 2 . .ie3 'Wg6 1 2 . . . 0-0 1 3 . .id3 Vffe5 1 4.0-0-0 'Wxg3 l 5.hxg3 h6 l 6.g4 f6 is another possibility; White has about enough compensation for a pawn.

l 3.'Wxc7 'Wxc2 1 4.�cl 'We4 l 5 .�c4 'Wb U 1 6.�c l 'We4=

1he game fizzles out to a move repetition.

a b c d e f g h 9 . . • 'Vfid5!N

Moving the queen early is an important commitment, but on this particular occasion I find it rather useful, nor least if Black wants to develop bis bishop on d7.

All four games have continued 9 ... tt'le7, but just because White has spent time moving the same piece several times in the opening, it doesn't mean we should do the same.

10.f3 1 0 . .ih6 is harmless: 1 0 ... 0-0 l 1 .l2'lg3 tt'lc7

1 2.'Wg5 tt'lg6 1 3.'Wxd5 exd5 14 . .id2 �e8t 1 5 . .ie2 tt'lh4! 1 6.0-0 l2'lf5 1 7 . .id3 l2'lxg3 1 8.fxg3 tt'le4 1 9.�ae l .id7 Black is at least equal.

10 ... 0-0 l l.�g5 tlle8 12.tllg3 h6 13.�e3

C) 6.b4

8 1.m.t.�•m��� �-� ��-%' . . . .

%m ��-%'· .. . v. 7 f� i f� - · f� i

6 z · . zm�m , ... . . zm 5 � m • m m 4 ,, . . . � %�t!J� m

3 n '!/11 ,� �.� 2 " "a"3'��a!a ��.,��-li a b c d e f g h

I have only faced this move in a single rapid game. However, it is one of the top choices among the engines and has also been tested by some strong players in recent practice.

6 .. . �b6 Here White's two main options arc

Cl) 7.tlla4 and C2) 7.�b2. 'The only significant alternatives are 7 .e5 tt'lge7 and 7 . .ie3 tt'lge7, transposing to l ines covered in Chapters 6 and 7 respectively.

Chapter 5 - Introduction 77

CI) 7.lba4

8 ;i�.i.�·���� 7 Ef• '•Tm1.' 6 , '•il•f· ,. : !.•M�. 3 wtf � � �/ L.% � � � 2 B [j Bt:tJD [j �

�� �V�JLW� ,, , , , -"'. ' " " ' " /,, , , , /, � ' a b c d e f g h

'll1is move was inrroduced by GM Guseinov in 2007. At first glance it looks a bit odd, but it has a deep strategic idea to suffocate Black on the queenside, which should not be underestimated.

7 ... dxe4 7 . . . ll'lge7 is playable but I prefer to grab rhe

pawn.

8.ib2 Cllf6 9.c4

9 ... a6 1 0.g3 0-0 l l .ig2 ia7 1 2.0-0 We? Guseinov - Bauer, Heraklio 2007. At rhis point White's most ambitious try is:

1 3.cS!?N Locking the al-bishop our of rhe game but giving away the dS-square. Here are a few l ines I analysed.

1 3 . . . e5! 13lack should break in the centre at once in order to l iberate rhe bishop on c8.

1 4.ll'lac3 I r is important to note that 1 4.dS? is unplayable due to l 4 . . . :Bd8 1 5 .ll'lac3 ie6! winning the important dS-pawn.

1 4 . . . :Bd8 14 . . . exd4 1 5 .ll'lxd4 ll'lxd4 1 6.\Wxd4 :Bd8 1 7.We3 :Bd3 1 8.\Wf4 e3 1 9.fxe3 c6 20.ll'le4 ctJd5 2 l .'1Wf2 ie6 22.:Bfe 1 Cllc7±

1 5 .Cllxe4 exd4 1 6.ll'lxf6t Wxf6 1 7.E:el ig4 l 8.ixc6 '1Mfxc6 l 9.ll'lxd4 Wg6 20.Wcl

Black still has to solve the problem of the misplaced bishop.

10.bS lbe7 l I .lbxb6 cxb6 12.lbg3 0-0 13.ie2 lbf5 14.0-0

1 4 .Clixf5 exf5 1 5 .d5 '1Mfd6 I 6.Wd4 E:e8 1 7 .0-0 f4 1 8.a4 if5 1 9 .ia3 \Wd8 looks unclear and playable for both sides. White's bishop pair is an important asset while Black has an extra pawn and a powerful majority on the kingside.

14 ... Wfd6 1 5.a4 :!'!e8 16.Wfd2

78 4.ttJe2

1 6.lllxf5 exf5 17 .�a3 We? 1 8 .d5 We5 28 ... hg2! l 9.Wd2 f4 20.�b2 WdG reaches a balanced A final finesse to seal the draw. position.

16 ... e3! 17.fxe3 tlJxg3 18.hxg3 l2Je4 19.Wc2 tlJxg3

111is is the best I could find for White, but it leads to no more than equality.

20 ... ttJxfl 21 .ixh?t Whs 22.gxfl Wg3 23.gf3 Weit 24.Wh2 eS 25.We4 ge6 26.gh3

29.Wxg2 1Wh4t 30.Wgl 1Weit=

C2) 7.i.b2

'This is the most popular move on the database and a logical fol low-up to White's previous move.

7 ... tlJge7 At this point it is worth considering C21)

8.tLla4, C22) 8.g3 and C23) 8.W°d3.

8.e5 1his move has been played a few times but has scored poorly for White, and indeed it seems strange to block the centre straight after putting the bishop on b2.

8 . . . 0-0 9.llla4 fG 9 . . . �d7 has been played by Predojevic and could be worth investigating, but I think it makes sense to play the pawn break at once in order to prevent lllf4.

1 0.CllxbG axbG 1 1 .exfG Ei:xfG 1 2.lllg3 Brenjo - Sedlak, Herceg Novi 2008. Here I propose a natural novelty:

Chapter 5 - Introduction 79

continuation is: 1 3 .id3 ie8 14 .0-0 ig6 1 5 .lllh5 :Ei:f7=

Black has good control over the light squares and the b2-bishop is bad.

C21) 8.tlia4

8 �-..t�•m �:i 7 �'·�·--- -��·��·V, i',. , , , % 0,, , , /. "/, , . , , , % . . , , /. 6 -'i)-·- � 5 '®"}•w;.\P• ·� : �.01���

' 'w " �� �m" �®" 2 1�11�� ... � � L .. � - ,

a b c d e f g h

This can be compared with l ine C I above. With the black knight already committed to the e?-square, I prefer not to take the e4-pawn, but rather to maintain the central tension and go for quick development.

8 ... 0-0 8 . . . dxe4 9.c4 a6 1 0.g3 may also be playable

for Black, but I cannot get away from the feeling that the knight belongs on f6 rather than e?.

9.g3 e5!? An energetic way to try and exploit White's

slow development.

I O.dxe5 dxe4

The alternative is: I I .lllxb6 axb6 1 2.lllf4 lt:lg6 13 .\Wxd8 :Elxd8 1 4.lllxg6 hxg6 1 5 .h3

It is important to restrict the enemy bishop. After I 5 .ig2 Black continues I 5 . . . if5 1 6 .h3 g5 and maintains his defence of the important e4-pawn. On the other hand, the e5-pawn is ripe to be picked up by . . . :Ele8 and . . . lllxe5.

15 . . . ie6 1 6.ig2 llld4 1 7.0-0-0

80 4.lt:Je2

1 7 . . . llif3! White is unable to make much use of his bishop pair. A possible continuation is:

1 8 .l"lxd8t l"lxd8 1 9 .l"ldl l"lxd l t 20.Wxd l !c4= Black is well coordinated and has l itcle to

worry about.

8 .i-.i.� ��·m �-����r% % U/< �-�� 7 r� i t� �, • t� i Z.. . . %-1.i� /,, , , ,� . . . .. %�

: .�]� ��

��

� � � L . . % �

4 �D 8 - i 8 � %M � � %M 3 J(:_J, � � '.r(:_J, %.. . . %�·00,d�� ��-00,;:: . . . %!*;i'00 2 � ��t� t& ��, . . . . . �-i�i}LRi

a b c d e f g h

1 1 ... lllg6! 'TI1is entails a piece sacrifice from Black's

side, bur the benefits are many. In return he will obtain two extra pawns and active piece play, as well as robbing his opponent of castling rights. This adds up to at least enough compensation, notwithstanding the following queen exchange.

12.'1Wxd8 B:xd8 13.cS lllcxe5 14.lllgl 1 4 .�xe5 llixe5 1 5 .ig2 llid3t 1 6.Wfl f5

offers Black full compensation based on the factors already outlined.

14 ... id7 15.heS l 5 .llic3?! !xc5! 1 6.bxc5 !cG+ gives Black

more than enough compensation in view of White's lack of development, exposed king and vulnerable pawns. The first player must also worry about the concrete possibi lities of . . . e3 or ... llid3i' on the next move.

15 ... lllxeS

16 ... aS 17.cxb6 axb4 18.bxc7 Ei:dc8 19.lllc4 lllxc4 20.ixc4 :il:xc7 21 .idS :il:aS!

Black will soon claim a third pawn for the piece, with excellent prospects in the endgame.

C22) 8.g3

111is move was mentioned in Bojkov's CB DVD Unorthodox agaimt the French Winawer . Given time to fianchetto and castle, White might have chances for a better position, but we will have something to say about that.

Chapter 5 - I ntroduction 8 1

8 ... e5! Opening the centre while preparing to

activate the light-squared bishop.

9.dxeS!N This computer suggestion looks l ike White's

best shot. Others are harmless:

9.llla4 was played in Yu - Beltran Medina, Moscow 2006, and now after 9 . . . ig4!N Black is perfectly fine and has an active position.

9.exd5 lllxd4 1 0 .ig2 ( I O.lllxd4N ixd4 l l .ig2 0-0 1 2.0-0 c6 1 3 .dxcG lllxc6=) 10 . . . ig4t Volokitin - Stellwagen, Groningen 1 999.

9 ... lLixeS 10.lLif4 lLig4!? Also possible is 1 0 . . . ig4 l l .ie2 ixe2

l 2.'\Wxe2 lllc4= when Black is fine. ·n1e text move is more interesting.

l I .ctJd3 0-0 12.!g2

13.tbxfl tbe3 14.�d3 ctJxg2t 15.�fl

8 :i�.i.� J�:!-7 w� & w� r� & lf.-� & /.·% · %·% ·, · /.·% · Z.., . %� . . . . . %� / ""� . . . . . ·� 6 - � �- � 5 � - · - -��.% �� �� �� 4 ¥� � � � � �M . . ?�\Wl� Wro: 3 WC:.jj '&2_J '§' • �d*-2 z . . . . %�8 � ��,�u

lf "•ll·�-i a b c d e f g h

lS ... ctJe3t! 16.�xe3 d4 17.�el dxc3 18.�xd f6

"Ihe position is close to equal, but Black's sicuation appears slightly healthier with a sound pawn structure and castled king.

C23) 8.�d3

9.ctJa4 dxe4 Another possible move order is 9 . . . e5!?

I O .tllxb6 dxe4 J 1 .'\Wxe4 transposing to the main line, and this was the actual sequence

82 4.llJe2

seen in the Bernard - Kuljasevic game quoted below.

10.'l&xe4 e5! 1 1 .liJxb6 Technically this is a novelty but it

immediately takes us to the aforementioned game.

The alternative is: l l .dxe5 if5 1 2.\Wc4 lllg6

Black has plenty of compensation for the sacrificed pawn and White has serious problems getting his king into safety.

1 3.\Wc3N 1 3.f4?! ie3 1 4.®c3 ixf4 1 5 .lllxf4 lllxf4+ Steenbekkers - Maier, Pu la 20 1 2. "The text move is a better try, but Black still obtains fine prospects with an excellent prophylactic move:

a b c d e f g h 1 3 . . . 1"Kc8!!

Preparing to recapture on b6 with the c-pawn. It is difficult to find a suitable continuation for White now, as illustrated by the following brief l ines.

14 . f4 In the event of 14 .h4?! Black simply replies l 4 . . . 1"Ke8! posing new questions to the white king. The X-ray attack along the e-file will soon be a serious issue.

1 4 . . . lllce7! 1he knight is heading for d5 which will

force White to give up his c2-pawn, while the problem of the king on e l remains unsolved.

12.Wfe3!?N -This is perhaps White's best try.

After 1 2.\Wh4 cxb6 l 3.dxe5 ixc2 Black was doing fine in Bernard - Kuljasevic, Split 20 1 1 .

1 2.\Wf3N cxb6 1 3 .1"Kd l ( 1 3 .dxe5 ixc2 looks fine for Black) 1 3 . . . ixc2 1 4 .1"Kd2 ig6 1 5 .dxe5 \Wc7 gives Black nothing much to worry about, while White still struggles to arrange castling.

12 ... cxb6 13.dxe5 �xc2 14.E:cl Wfd3! An important moment. A queen exchange

will render the e5-pawn vulnerable, while Black's lead in development will grant him quick access to the d-file in the endgame.

Chapter 5 - I ntroduction

15.lllf4 1 5 .1M'xd3 ixd3 1 6./lJf4 ixfl 1 7.iixfl .!!fd8=

reaches a pretty level position .

15 . . . �xeJt 16.fxe3 �b3= White has the pair of bishops, bur with

his doubled e-pawns he cannot claim an advantage.

Conclusion

This chapter has introduced the complexities of the 4./lJe2 llic6 variation. It is hard to offer any general conclusions based on thematic pawn structures and piece manoeuvres, as rhe range of potential position types is so diverse. The first branch involved a pawn exchange on dS and a symmetrical structure. lbe second involved an early . . . dxe4, after which White can either recapture or sacrifice both his central pawns.

1he third and final branch involved the moves 6.b4 ib6. Here too the range of possible pawn structures is varied, so the best advice I can give is to be flexible in your thinking and be ready to adapt to whichever direction the game may take.

83

4.�e2 a b c d e f g h

6.eS

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lDc3 i.h4 4.lDe2 lDc6 5.a3 i.a5 6.e5

6 ... lDge7 A) 7.g3 B) 7.lDg3 0-0

Bl) 8.i.e2?! B2) 8.�g4?!N B3) 8.i.g5

C) 7.b4 i.h6 8.lDa4 0-0 Cl) 9.b5?! C2) 9.c3 f6

C21) 10.£4 C22) 10.exf6

B I ) afcer 9 . .ie3

a b c d c f g h

9 .. . lllxd4!N

CI) afcer 14.dxc5

a b c d c f g h

14 . . . 1Mlc7!N

C22) afcer I O.exf6

a b c d e f g h

1 0 . . . �xf6N

86 87 87 88 89 92 92 93 94 96

86 4 .Clle2

I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 �b4 4.llle2 lllc6 5.a3 �a5 6.e5

a b c d e f g h

Fixing the pawn structure in the centre gives White a notable space advantage. Black's general strategy will be to develop quickly and challenge his opponent's pawn wedge with a timely . . . f6, which should provide counterplay both in the centre and on the light squares.

6 . • . lllge7 We begin with a standard developing move.

From this position we will analyse three main paths: A) 7.g3, B) 7.lbg3 and C) 7.b4.

7.ic3 transposes to variation D of the next chapter - sec page I 0 5 .

A) 7.g3

"The kingsidc fianchctto is not uncommon in the 4 .tt:'ic2 variation. Here I would l ike to propose a new path for Black.

7 ... 0-0N 7 . . . lllf5

This has been played in a few games, but in the following short analysis I wil l show why I was not altogether happy with it.

8.ih3 White should be ready to capture on f5 if necessary, for instance after . . . ib6. 8 .ig2? gives Black a pleasant choice between 8 . . . ib6!? and the even stronger 8 . . .f6! . In both cases it will be difficult for White to hold his centre together since the d4-pawn cannot be protected by another pawn.

8 . . . ixc3tN 'TI1 is was my attempt to improve over 8 . . . 0-0, as played in Novak - L. Toth, Szombathely 2003. In this position the novelty 9.ixf5N exf5 1 O.id slightly favours White.

9.bxc3 b6 9 . . . 0-0 1 0 .tt:'if4 b6 transposes.

a b c d e f g h 1 o .tt:'if4 0-0 1 1 .0-0 tt:'ia5 I 2.a4t

At first I thought Black had sufficient play on the light squares, but the more I looked at the position the less happy I was. Black is controlling the c4-square but what can he do with it? Similarly the bishop can find a nice home on a6 bur there is no concrete plan of councerplay apart from the . . . c5 break,

Chapter 6 - 6.e5 87

which seems too slow. Overall it seems to me that White has good chances to develop his kingside initiative into something dangerous.

Let's return to my recommendation. By castling immediately, Black keeps his position more flexible and can subsequently choose whether to put the knight on f5 or go for an immediate .. . f6 break.

8 . .ih3 8.b4 ib6 9.ih3 enables Black to create

counterplaywith 9 .. . f6! 1 0.exfG �xf6 intending . . . es .

8 . . . .L:c3t! Now is rhe time to exchange this bishop

before i t risks getting blocked by b2-b4.

9.llixc3 9.bxc3 makes less sense when Black has not

committed his knight to the f5-square. Play may continue 9 . . . b6 1 0.0-0 ia6 l l .�e l l2Jg6= intending to exchange knights, when Black is doing fine.

9 .. . aS! Black grabs some space on the queenside

and prevents b2-b4.

1 0.0-0 b6

Followed by . . . ia6, with an approximately level game. White has the b ishop pair but his pieces are on slightly odd squares, and Black will obtain decent play on the light squares.

B) 7.tt:lg3

l11is move opens the path for the bishop as well as for the queen which may come to g4 at any moment. Another move to watch out for is lLihS.

7 . . . 0-0 Black should not be afraid to castle. It is

useful to defend the g7-pawn in advance, and Black is now ready to push with .. . f6 or . . . f5 at an appropriate moment. This position is still rather unknown and I was able to find some nice ideas for Black.

I considered three main tries for White: Bl) 8 . .ie2?!, B2) 8.Wi'g4?!N and B3) 8 . .igS.

S .ic3 is covered via the move order 6.!e3 l2Jge7 7.e5 0-0 s .l2Jg3 - see variation 02 in the next chapter on page 1 06.

Bl) 8 . .ie2?!

This simple developing move is a mistake.

8 .. . .ib6 9 . .ie3

88 4.ctJe2

Here I found a striking improvement over Schramm - Kindermann, Dresden 1 999.

1 1 ..ie3 d4 12 . .id2 l 2 . .ig5 dxc3 I 3 .Wxd8 �xd8 1 4.0-0-0

cxb2t 1 5 . �xb2 h6 l 6.:r!xd8 hxg5+ also gives Black the upper hand.

12 ... dxc3 13.hc3 llJdS 14 . .id2 1 4.\Wd3 l2ixc3 1 5 .Wxc3 �a5 1 6.b4 <�,b6

I 7.:gd I We?+ Black can claim a small advantage thanks to his pair of bishops, not to mention the concrete threat of . . . cxb4 winning a pawn.

14 ... c4! A strong temporary pawn sacrifice, opening

the diagonal for the bishop on b6.

1 5.hc4 .id4 16.c3 hes Black has slightly better chances thanks to

his extra central pawn and well-placed minor pieces.

82) 8.Wf g4?!N

a b c d e f g h

"Il1is move has not been tried so far, bur it is an obvious candidate for us to consider.

8 . . . f6! Black's lead in development promises him

excellent chances in the battle ahead.

9.CllhS Objectively White should prefer 9.exf6, but

after 9 . . . :gxf6 it is obvious that Black has won the opening battle. ll1c text move is clearly the one White would like to play, but concrete analysis shows it is insufficient.

9 ... Cllg6 10.exf6 White continues down the principled bur

ultimately doomed path. I 0 .. lld3 is a lesser evil , but after I 0 .. . f5

1 1 .Wg3 l2ixd4 Black has an extra pawn with a solid advantage.

Chapter 6 - 6.e5 89

1 1 . 'Wf3 exd4 l 2.b4 lllxb4 l 3.axb4 �xb4+ also gives Black a big advantage.

1 1. .. exd4 12.b4 ib6!

13 ... gest 14.ie2 1 4. Wd2 lllge5 threatens . . . �g4, and after

l 5 .h3 gG-+ White will not last long.

14 ... ig4 15.tlJg3 d3 I6.f7t �xf7 17.1M'xd3 ll.Jd4

18 ... 'Wf6! 19.ctJxdS ixe2 20.tlJxe2 gxe2t 21 .1M'xe2 'Wc6-+

White can resign.

83) s.igS

8 . . . h6N 8 . . . fG has been played a few times, a logical

continuation being 9 .exf6 gxf6 1 O .«ikh6 �f7 1 l .�e2 as in Sardy - Rudolf, Budapest 2006.

90 4 .llle2

ll1e white bishop is coming to h5 next, and while Black's position should be playable, I prefer his prospects in the new l ine I am recommending.

By the way, 8 . . . ib6?N does not work as White can ignore the attack on the d-pawn: 9.\¥1'g4! ixd4 1 0.ifG gG l l .�ff4 ixe5 1 2.ixe5 lDxe5 1 3.\¥1'xe5 lDcG 1 4.\¥1'f4 e5 1 5 .\¥1'h6±

9 . .ie3 f6 Compared with 8 . . . fG on the previous move,

we will now get the chance to recapture with the rook, keeping the kingside more secure. lbe present position is almosr identical to variation 02 of the next chapter, the only difference being the position of the black pawn on h6 instead of h7. In general this 'free move' should ar least not harm Black's chances, and I have made a few comparisons in the annotations chat follow.

8 i.-.i.� ��·�

�.r��r%' · - -\ ,,,/1----·"'�.r'0 � 1 r�, �� ., r� 6 /, . .

. . %-��t· . . ��-- . . %

�� �-�� ��'¥ . . . . % .. . . . % : ·.·�fl·•· �-� �/, "/// . . . . /.�-�/, "//ylW; 3 r� � � � 2 % . . %·�--� ,. , . . ,Y,·� ·1/J

• "•lm.rai a b c d e f g h

10.exf6 1 0.f4

Holding on to rhe centre is generally not such a good idea in these posirions.

1 o . . . fxe5 l l .fxe5 id7 White is behind in development and unable to castle short in the next few moves. A similar position, without the inclusion of .. . h6 for Black, is covered in variation 02 1

of the next chapter on page 1 06. I doubt that this extra move for Black can be to his disadvantage, although there are some nuances highlighted below.

l 2.\¥1'd2 Wirh the pawn on h6 White would like to arrange the piece sacrifice ixh6 at an appropriate moment. On the other hand, Black can also utilize the extra move as follows.

1 2 . . . lDgG! The idea is to prepare . . . \¥1'h4 now that White no longer has the option of ig5.

1 3 .0-0-0 1 3 .id3?! is well met by 1 3 . . . lDgxe5! 1 4.dxe5 d4 1 5 .ixd4 lDxd4 1 6.0-0-0 �,c6 with somewhat better prospects for Black.

l 3 . . . \¥1'h4 Black has an easy game and is at least equal.

10 ... :§:xf6 Now . . . e5 has become a realistic option, so

Whire should aim to castle quickly before the centre opens up.

1 1 ..ie2 l 1 .\¥1'd2 is another option to prepare long

castling. Now Black should strike immediately to obtain quick counrerplay in the centre. 1 J . . .e5 1 2.dxe5 lDxe5 1 3 .0-0-0 Ei:d6!? A concrete move with a clear message. Now . . . d4 is a serious threat .

Chapter 6 - 6.e5 9 1

a b c d e f g h

1 4J4 ( 1 4.ic5? d4 1 5 .!xd6 dxc3+ loses material for White.) l 4 . . . lll 5c6 l 5.b4 d4 1 6.!c4t ( 1 6.bxa5 !e6t) 1 6 . . . <;t>hg 1 7.bxa5 !g4 The position is sharp and unbalanced, buc Black has the safer king and should be happy with the outcome of the opening.

12.b4!? Another option leading to a more static

position is: l 2.f4 lllf5 1 3 .ltJxfS !xc3t l 4.bxc3 exf5 Black has excellent chances in the forthcoming strategic battle. One idea is to follow up with . . . llla5 and later . . . lllc4 at an appropriate moment, when an exchange on c4 would open up the a8-h 1 diagonal for the bishop. Even better would be to exchange

off the light-squared bishops, but chat seems a bit too optimistic at the moment. A final idea is to transfer the knight via e7-c8-d6 to e4 in order to block the open e-file. Objectively the position is about equal, but in my opinion Black has the easier game to play.

12 ... ib6 Now White has an ugly pawn set-up on the

queenside while the threat of . . . e5 has been postponed j ust for a move.

13.ltJa4 This is the best attempt to make sense of

White's last move, but Black is well placed to meet it .

13 ... eS 14.ltJxb6 axb6 15.dxeS l 5.c3 lllf5 16 .lllxf5 !xf5 is pleasant enough

for Black.

15 ... d4! 16.icl ltJxe5 17.f4

18 ... ltJ5g6 19.if.3 ltJxf420.ixf4gxf421 .0-0 '.Wd6

-Ibe position is roughly equal, as White

92 4 .llle2

has about enough activity to make up for his slightly inferior pawn structure.

C) 7.b4 i.b6

8.'lla4 1his is almost always played, and I do not

see another way for White to make sense of his previous move.

8 . . . 0-0 TI1is can perhaps be named the Hector-Berg

Variation, since from the total of seven games in the database Hector has played four games on the white side, of which three were against me.

TI1ere are two main moves to analyse: Cl) 9.bS?! and C2) 9.c3.

9.E�b 1 Hector won against me with this move in the 2004 Excelsior Cup, bm White got nothing out of the opening and I doubt that it will attract many followers.

9 . . . lllf5 9 . . . �d7N was an interesting alternative, threatening to win a pawn with . . . �xd4 as the knight on a4 will be hanging.

1 0.Cllxb6

a b e d e g h

I O.c3 f6 is good for Black. 1 0 . . . axb6 l l .b5 l2ia5 1 2.l2ig3 c5 1 3.l2ixf5 exf5 1 4.�e2

l 4.�e3 f6! is good for Black. 1 4 . . . <�,e6=

Black was fine in Hector - Berg, Gothenburg 2004, although I lost the game due to a blunder.

Cl) 9.bS?!

9 . . . i.aSt! TI1is was my prepared novelty, improving over

the game Hector - Conquest, Pulvermuehle 2004, in which 9 . . . l2ia5 was played.

The main point of the text move is to save the bishop from being exchanged, which in

Chapter 6 - 6.e5 93

turn makes the knight redundant on a4. I r will After 14 .lllxa5 '\Mrxa5 l 5 .!d2 !d7+ White will rake quire some rime for chis piece co gee back struggle co complete his development. in business.

10.c3 White cries co shm the bishop om of the

game.

Black also does well after 1 0.!d2N !xd2t l 1 .'lMrxd2 lllb8 followed by . . . a6, forcing a favourable queenside exchange.

10 . . . 'bbs 1 I .lLic5 1be knight is heading for b3 co attack the

bishop.

8 i.tlY.t� �s•m �--¥'·· · · · ·�·�"· · ·";.-; '°///,; • • • • . Y,%i'ef� 7 t� i t� � · t� i 6 :J;:.!���;;· s oo; o -�J a �u� � 4

,, . . . . ��

'/ . . . . . ;Wl¥ . . . "�

�-0'0 �¥1%' '� �� � 3 :8'1�8� �0'0�0Zi 2 � �ll'J¥� � ¥� �� �V=�- M

a b c d e f g h

1 1 . . . a6! Black is in rime and can force a favourable

exchange of pawns char leaves White with several weaknesses.

12.bxa6 'Dxa6 13.lLib3 c5! This is a key move for Black. Ir is imporram

co seize the initiative while White is still in a cramped position and behind in development.

14.dxc5 A sad move for White co have co make, but it

is not easy to suggest a bener way co deal with the threat of .. . cxd4.

l 4.!d2 !d7+ also favours the second player.

8 i. m.t� ��•m 1 R t•-.. - -�.,��i(f m�

m�

'/ . . . . . :�

. . . . . %� 6 l�'0%�'0""�� �

: :IP:·� 2 /,.. . % ... . . %�

�� �W!J .�DldtWi ;., . . . Y, ; , , , , }'. /, . . . . /. �

a b c d e f g h

14 ... �c7!N 1 4 . . . lllc6 was enough for me co claim some

advantage in Hector - Berg, Sweden 2004, bur the text move is even stronger.

15.lLixa5 1 5 .«�.e3 .�d7 1 6.'\Mrd2 lllf5+

1 5 ... �xa5+ Black has a clear and stable advantage thanks

to White's numerous pawn weaknesses.

C2) 9.c3

94 4 .llle2

This is the first choice of my engine, and the move I find most logical. White wants to overprotect the d4-pawn in order to free his knight on e2. The knight on a4 may rake on b6 at an appropriate moment, but White should nor be in a hurry to make this exchange, as in some cases the alternative route lLib2-d3 or even lLic5 might become interesting.

9 .. . f6 A typical move, challenging the enemy

pawn centre before White catches up on development. Now White must make an important choice between C21) 1 0.f4 and C22) 10.e:xf6.

C21) I O.f4

This move was introduced in one of my many encounters with Hector, and has not yet been repeated. White is playing extremely ambitiously, aiming for nothing less than total control. However, such a strategy can easily backfire. The following comments are based on my own ChessBase annotations.

10 .. . �d7 A multi-purpose developing move, eyeing

the knight on a4 while also setting the option of manoeuvring the bishop to h5 or g6. Note that Black should delay exchanging on e5 for

a while, as this would give the white pieces the use of the f4-square.

l l .h4 This is mainly directed against the

aforementioned bishop manoeuvre, but it costs time and weakens the white camp further.

1 1 ...Wi'es Black exerts diagonal pressure against the

a4-knight while at the same time preparing to deploy the queen on h5 or g6.

12.hS Hector prevents the queen activation, having

seen that Black has no way to exploit the loose knight for the moment.

1 2 ... lllds Forcing White to decide whether or not to

exchange on b6.

13.ctJb2 13 .lLixb6 axb6+ gives Black a pleasant game,

with a half-open a-file and easy play on the light squares.

The text move is the principled choice, hoping to consolidate with lLid3 and complete development. If White can achieve this he may end up with a dominant position, bur for the

Chapter 6 - 6.e5 95

time being his development is a major concern. "The 'big pawn' on b6 is not doing much at the moment, but that could easily change if Black finds a good way to open the centre.

13 ... �fl Now White will constantly have to watch

out for sacrifices on e5. A secondary point behind Black's last move is to put the knight on h6 and later g4 or f5 .

14.g4!? Another highly ambitious move from white,

but he remains underdeveloped and his bubble will burst sooner rather than later.

14 ... fxeS White was intending to meet 1 4 . . . ct:Jh6 with

l 5 .ctJg3. It is worth mentioning that 1 4 . . . a5? should

be avoided as l 5 .h6! is awkward.

15.fxeS It is remarkable that White has played

exclusively with knights and pawns for the first fifteen moves.

s .i � �WK�-·� ·��/A ·?{l1·� A � ?{ll� & 7 0 " . 0 " .ll.� 0 % • 6 ,. - '�£�• 1.'a" /.� 5 � ··� - � 4 ���-0;·�-3 rr,n,f ·� B B )'. . .::!z, .,.,,z. · · · · · '0n,..,,�%. ·� �� 2 m ��tZJ�. � :� -if-�•:

a b c d e f g h 1 8 . ©c2! ( l 8 .ctJd3 does not work on account of 18 . . . ct:Jxe5! 1 9 .CDxeS �a4 and the white queen is trapped.) 1 8 . . . CLixe5 Black has excellent compensation for the sacrificed piece, with rwo central pawns and a dangerous initiative.

16.�J4! White protects himself against the sacrifice

while at the same time making it possible to answer . . . axb4 with axb4.

16 ... i.bS White is under pressure and must rake care

nor ro lose at once.

96 4 . .!Z:ie2

l 7 .. . .!Z:ic6! 23.Elh2 is refuted by 23 . . . �e3! with mate to Activating the knight and threatening follow shortly .

. . . 'Llfxe5.

18,:gg2 The rook escapes the pin, but Black can

execute the desired combination all the same.

8 x m �iK�-•m 7 m 1. m m'i)�1 1. 6 -Ai)m.t. m a s M.tU.t.� U 8 4 � n � 8 � 3 9· --%9 _, , %•.t'•� 2 � �Qjmgm

I ¥�-- - - - --;�r-W@ a b c d e f g h

18 ... .!Z:ifxeS! 19.LeS 1 9 .dxe5 is met by 1 9 . . . �xe2 followed by

. . . Elxf4, with an extra pawn and a winning position for Black.

19 ... ltJxeS 20.dxeS

23.Elgl is not much better, as after 23 . . . �f2t 24.'it>d2 �c3t 25.'it>c2 �xe2 26.°We l \M/e4t Black has won back the material with a crushing position.

23 ... Wxg2 24.cS 24.cxb5 £1.c3 is terminal.

24 • • . :gm 2s.wd2 :gri 26 . .!Z:id3 Ld3 27.Wxd3 Wf3t 2s.wd2

8 m m m•m 1 U .t. - U Wl .t. 6 � m 1. m m s W � .t. � U 8 4 ' 'D ,. 'n!n 3 � m -iKU 2 - ���� -1 .�DVn' '•�

a b c d e f g h

28 ... d4! 0-1

White resigned in Hector - Berg, Sweden 2005, as 29.cxbG °Wc3 is mate.

C22) 10.exf6 :B:xf6N

I prefer this over 1 O . . . gxf6, when Black has a strong pawn centre but his kingside is a bit weak. One game continued: l l .CLlg3 e5 l 2.�e2 ( 1 2.b5!?N 'Lla5 1 3 .�e2 might be even stronger, as pointed out by Houdini.) 1 2 .. . 'Llf5 1 3.0-0 'Llxg3 1 4. hxg3;!; Ekstroem -Berezovsky, Graechen 1 999.

Chapter 6 - 6.e5 97

s,i�.i.� �·� % ·��·�" "�% "///,��·� 7 d&'� & !t&'� ?� !t&'� & A% A %A% ::-�: r.Az A 6

L . . %mi)� � ... �.,, . . %� 5 ��:·1·;-: : rwrr.�� 2 ''n" 'n�n ru

c � m·�i �c:·i/ � .. . �� �ii���l:: a b c d e f g h

l 1 .CLlg3 'TI1ere are no practical examples from this

position, but this knight move seems like the normal way to develop White's kingside.

1 1 .. .'®'d6 If Black can carry out . . . e5 he should

generally be fine.

12.f4 Preventing the pawn break, but this move

slows White's development, weakens the light squares and restricts the bishop on c 1 .

1 5 .ctJxb6 axb6 1 6.fxe5 ctJcxe5 1 7.dxe5 \Wxe5t 1 8.�e2 �g4

15 . . . hcS 16.bxcS '®'f8 17.0-0 b6 18.a4 'Llge7=

We have reached an unbalanced position with roughly equal chances. White has the bishop pair while Black has the more solid pawn structure and good piece coordination.

98 4.ll'ie2

Conclusion

6.e5 establishes a space advantage for White, but by developing his king's knight on e7 and castling quickly, Black prepares to challenge the enemy centre with a timely .. .f6. White has a playable position but he is slightly behind in development, and we have seen several instances where overambitious play enabled Black co break open the centre with powerful effect.

4.�e2 a b c d c f g h

6.ie3

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.liJc3 .ih4 4.liJe2 liJc6 5.a3 .ia5 6 • .ie3

6 ... l2Jge7 A) 7.b4 B) 7.f3 C) 7.�d3 D) 7.e5 0-0

Dl) 8.g3 D2) 8.liJg3 f6

D21) 9.f4 D22) 9.exf6

Noce co move 7

a b c d e f g h

I I . . . llld5!N

C) noce co 9.b4!?N 0 1 ) afcer 1 1 .0-0-0

100 101 103 105 105 106 106 107

a b c d c f g h

1 1 . . .E!bS!?N

100 4.tt:le2

1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ClJc3 ib4 4.ctJe2 ctJc6 5.a3 ia5 6.ie3

8 i.�..t�•�'i)�� �'��'%" , /,� ��'�""'" 7 ¥� • ¥� � · �� · 6 %nlS)n • • m 5 � � · � n 4 *'jn�o!n��-wM �rl w� � 3 ?Li� '&:'2.J M � 2 ,, , , , , /,flt8' '� qS� Et� - "•'�''ff•i

a b c d e f g h

1his is White's most flexible developing move, setting up the possibility of long castling. Over the next move or two White can decide whether ro close the centre with e4-e5 or proceed in some other way.

6 ... tllge7 I prefer this over 6 . . . ttJf6 7.e5 lLlg4 (7 . . . lLle4

8.b4 lLlxc3 9.lLlxc3 ib6 1 O.�g4±) 8 .lLlf4 when White has fine prospects; see, for example, the game Berg - Kindermann, Bundesliga 2002, which I won in good sryle. Based on my understanding and practical experience playing both sides of the 4.lLle2 lLlc6 variation, I would suggest that the e7-square is the best home for the black knight in the majority of cases.

At this point White has four main continuations: A) 7.b4, B) 7.8, C) 7.�d3 and D) 7.e5 .

7.g3 is hardly critical, and Black obtains a fine position by opening the centre in thematic style: 7 . . . e5! 8 .ig2 ig4 9.f3 ih5 1 0.dxe5 dxe4 I l .f4 Here I propose an improvement over the game Miladinovic - Atalik, Elista 1 998 :

a b e d e f g h I I . . . ftJd5!N I 2.Wd2 if3 with a dangerous initiative for Black.

A) 7.b4 ib6

This position can also be reached via the move order 6.b4 ibG 7.ie3 lLlge7, as noted earlier on page 76-77.

8.exd5 The most popular move, although the

exchange structure is unlikely to threaten us. 111e following two alternatives are also nothing special for White.

8 .e5? is an accuracy which has only occurred in a single game, Van Randen - Gibson, Grand Havre Bay 20 I 0. If White wishes to play this move he should do it without the inclusion of b2-b4 and . . . ibG, since here Black has

Chapter 7 - 6 .ie3 1 0 1

the additional option o f 8 . . . lllf5 !N exerting pressure on the d4-pawn, which hampers White's development. In view of the looming . . . f6 break, White's best try seems to be 9 .b5 although after 9 . . . tllxe3 1 0.1Xe3 tlle7 White's position is seriously weakened and Black is at least slightly better.

The enterprising pawn sacrifice 8 .tlla4!? was used successfully by the Brazilian GM Alexander Fier, but Black was doing fine in the opening. 8 .. . dxe4 9.c4 a6 10 .tllxb6 cxb6 l l .\Wc2

8 .i�.t.��� �� 7 •t��r -"� l••, � d �. , , , , ; / . . . z 6 · ��'))··· • 5 - . - • 4 � LS � i U. � .� ef �; �'efm � 3 ffl �. � � 2 . . •!f. fl? U.CZJ

.. � LS �

1 ¥� • �SL-11 a b c d e f g h

a) At this point Black went completely wrong with the overly materialistic l l .. .f5 ? and lost badly in Fier - Jatoba de Oliveira Reis, Brazil 20 10 . "This approach doesn't suit the Black position at all, and merely gives White targets and a great initiative which is worth at least as much as the extra pawn.

b) Instead Black should search for counterplay with l l . . .b5!N when he will obtain excellent control over the light squares, especially d5 which could become a great outpost for his knights. In this case his chances arc at least equal.

8 ... exd5 Ir is logical to recapture with the pawn, so as

not to allow the exchange of the badly placed knight on c3 .

9.lLig3 White tried 9 .tllf4 in Lopez Silva - Rojas,

Santiago de Chile 2005 . Here I would recommend 9 . . . 0-0N intending 1 O .�c2 lllf5 l l .tllfXd5 �xd4 1 2.0-0 ie6 with a slight pull for Black.

9 . .. 0-0 IO.ib5 a6 I Lixc6 ltJxc6 12.0-0 lLie7=

Handoko - Johansen, Bali 1 999. The position is equal, although if anyone has chances to press, it could be Black with his bishop pair.

B) 7.f3

1 02 4 .tt:le2

Caro-Kann. White's simple plan of Wd2 and 0-0-0 can prove dangerous if Black is not careful, but I was pleased to discover a rather spectacular counter-surprise to deal with White's set-up.

7 ... 0-0 I would also like to mention a second option.

7 . . . c5!? 1his is also perfectly sound for Black.

8.Wd2 After 8.dxc5 ixc3t 9.bxc3 0-0 Black is about to complete development, while White is struggling to castle and has numerous pawn weaknesses.

8 . . . dxc4 9.fxc4 cxd4 1 0 .ctJxd4 ctJxd4 l 1 .Wxd4 l I .ixd4 0-0 1 2.0-0-0 ctJc6 l 3.ic5 Wxd24' 1 4 .Elxd2 ixc3 1 5 .bxc3 Elc8 1 6.ib5 is likely to result in a drawish endgame with opposite-coloured bishops.

8 E•.t�·· . ¥� 7 �� " �,ii$,' ?iii[( " �I� " rA� A ?'A1 ��: a 0 � -6 , "E' % _ _ _ _ 5 � .• • • 4 ' .. ��/ %� t!J� � d b§!; (/�. $@, 3 � m � • 2 , %�Af� �- ···��� [}J%�/!f;

,0% � � . . . . . ��· . . . ·� �i,-:S'. a b c d e f g h

1 1 . . .0-0 1 2.0-0-0 111c position is about equal and occurred (via a slightly different move order) in the game Bojkov - Crut, Germany 2006, which we will follow for a few more moves.

l 2 . . . Wxd4 l 3.ixd4 ig4 14 .Eld2 ctJc6 l 5 .ic5 Herc Black should have continued with:

1 5 ... ixc3N 1 6.bxc3 Elfe8 By now Black even has somewhat better

chances.

8 :im..t� ���� W� &0,W�,, .J�fg£_"&Y,wirt 7 ra;:; a ra;:; "�= • �-;:; • 6 /,,,

.. /.�f-�f, . . m/, . .

. . /.m s rf� m a m � 4 �m•ir�mm � L.% � � �� *if'!¢. �(.<% A � 3 jre:Ji ;�_J � 0 � 2 ,, - "�K(l�J�'f5'm iIWl ,o,, m � , . . % �� ·· ·miV��m� a b c d e f g h

8.Wl'd2 bS!?N A startling move, but the message behind

it is clear. I found four practical examples of 8 . . . c5, including the game mentioned in the previous note, but I believe the text move to be fully playable, not to mention dangerous for an unprepared opponent to face over the board.

9.b4 "This seems like the most logical way to

question Black's last move. My engine considers 9.0-0-0? as an option,

but I doubt that any human players would contemplate this, and indeed after 9 . . . b4 1 O.axb4 �.xb4! the machine soon begins to regret the decision. White has no counterplay whatsoever, while Black can quickly launch an attack along the a- and b-filcs.

9 . . . .ib6 10.lLixbS Trying to close the centre in order to gain

time for development backfires: 1 O.e5? ctJf5 Threatening to take on e5. l I .if2 a5 1 2.Elb I axb4 1 3.axb4 f6 With a dangerous initiative for Black.

10 . . . aS I U�bl axb4 12.axb4 dxe4 13.fxe4 fS! With this strong move the position opens up

further. White is already in serious trouble, as shown by the following possible continuation.

Chapter 7 - 6.�e3 1 03

14.c4

1 5.gxb4 i.aS 16.dS Necessary to prevent . . . tt:'ic6.

16 ... fxe4 17.i.cS

8 .im.t.� ��•m 7 m �.I - �•r 6 =��.��·;· s m�-/j � m 4 ��/jm•m m 3 ·�·; ,�.·Wll 2 *! �.�n� 1 m m LJ �

a b c d e f g h

17 ... e3! 18.Wfc3 1 8 .'.Wxe3? falls victim to 1 8 . . . �xb41" 1 9.�xb4

liixd5! 20.cxd5 '.Wh41"-+ and che game will soon be over.

18 .. . exdS 19.llled4 gf2+ 'll10ugh the outcome is nor yet fully decided,

Black is having all the fun.

C) 7.Wfd3

ll1is has been quire a common choice for White in recent years.

7 ... 0-0 8.0-0-0 8.g3?! does not seem appropriate, and

Black obtains a good game wich a familiar device: 8 ... c5! 9.ig2 exd4 1 0.ixd4 ( I O.liixd4 liie5+) 1 0 . . . tt:'ixd4 l l .'.Wxd4 Herc I suggest an improvement over my game against Sheila Sahl:

8 i: �i.�� J�·� 7 r� • r� � • • • 6 : '·/,�/-=;,• •.� s � 9 i B B. 4 � � 8 � � 3 � � � �� � ,�ffff, r��f;:;;;" %,�ff/·;.,;;,;,rff:. ') :ra: 0 � o.u'fLJ �){i:.J' � ?�: ;,� ��: ;•.:

a b c d e f g h 1 1 . . . ibGN (Best, although l l . . . dxe4 was also quite pleasant for Black in Sahl - Berg, Tromso 20 1 0 .) 1 2.'.Wd3 dxe4 1 3.'.Wxc4 c6 1 4.fi:d l '.Wc7+ Black is somewhat beccer thanks to his bishop pair and development advantage.

8 . . . a6

1 04 4.lLle2

After checking some different possibilities for Black, I found this to be the most appropriate way to continue. The most tempting alternative is 8 . . . b5 , which forces White into sharp complications. Unfortunately, after analysing it with a computer I concluded that it was not completely sound, so instead I am recommending a slower approach with the same idea in mind.

Apart from the obvious plan of .. . b5 to start an attack on the queenside, Black should also keep in mind the possibility of . . . e5 to open rhe centre at an appropriate moment.

9.b4!?N This creates some weaknesses on the

queenside, but the consequences of not playing it could tu m out to be even worse. I found two practical examples in which White pushed the g-pawn:

9 .g3 b5 1 0.il.g2 b4 l l .ctJa4 Zelic - Brumen, Zagreb 20 1 1 . Here I would prefer:

1 1 . . ,:gb8!N In the game Black took on a3 immediately, but I would prefer to maintain the tension for at least one more move. 1 2.ll'ic5 bxa3 l 3.\Wxa3 :gb5 Black has some initiative and attacking chances on the queenside.

9.g4 was played in Rajkovic - E. Toth, Senta 2007. Here it looks promising for Black to switch plans and execute the central break, especially now that the g4-pawn is hanging.

9 . . . e5!N (lhe game continuation of9 . . . b5 also leads to interesting and double-edged play.) 1 O.h3 exd4 1 l .il.xd4 ( 1 l .ctJxd4 ctJe5 l 2.\Wd2 c5 is good for Black.)

� i,,��Jfl! 6 ,r.A))�" ., %� 5 � ··� � 4 ,

, , ""�' �attn rt� 3 W/J �iV� � � L.% » � ,� 2 r� � �lt:J� � �f '�'-ji-'

a b c d e f g h l l . . .ctJxd4 1 2.\Wxd4 il.b6 1 3 .\Wd2 c6 1 4.exd5 ct:lxd5 l 5 .ctJxd5 \Wxd5 1 6 .\Wxd5 cxd5= "D1e endgame is level, as Black's bishop pair compensates for the isolated cl-pawn.

9 ... .ib6

10.h4 White needs to start a pawn storm on the

kingside before Black opens up the queenside.

10 . . . .ia?! "D1is move is necessary to prepare . . . a5 in

a way that stops White from blocking the queenside with b4-b5 .

Chapter 7 - 6.ie3 1 0 5

I 1 .hS bS 12.h6 g6 13.lllf4 a5 Black has good attacking prospects.

D) 7.eS

7 . . . 0-0 Here White has two main ways to develop

his kingside: DI) 8.g3 and D2) 8.lllg3.

DI) 8.g3

"ll1is was once played by Andrei Sokolov but has never been repeated.

8 ... lllf5 9.Wi'd3 f6 10.exf6 Wi'xf6 I 1 .0-0-0 I would already prefer Black, who has

excellent chances to create an attack on the queenside. With this in mind, I would like to introduce a sharp novelty.

a b c d e f g h

I I . . . E!:b8!?N l 1 . . . id7 was the perfectly reasonable

continuation seen in A. Sokolov - Curien, Lenk 20 1 1 , but I would prefer to push the b-pawn as quickly as possible. ll1e a2-a3 move could prove to be a serious concession, whereas the black kingside contains no such weaknesses.

12.ih3 ll1is seems like the most challenging try.

Simple development allows Black to carry out h is plan, as shown in the following line: 1 2 .ig2 b5! 1 3 .b4 ib6 1 4.Wxb5

1 4.ct:Jxb5? ia6+ 14 . . . ctJcxd4 1 5 .ixd4 ctJxd4

instance: 1 8 .Wxa7

1 8 .2:'1d3 ib2t 1 9 .Wd ! ia6-+ regains the material with a decisive attack to follow.

1 s . . .. �b2t 1 9.Wb l ia l ! 20.wc I l;'{efb2i" 2 1 .Wd2 Wc3t 22.Wc l .�.a6! 23.l;'{ifxa6 1i.b2t 24.Wb l ixa3-+

I2 ... tt'ld6!

1 06 4 .llle2

1 2 . . . b5 needlessly allows l 3 .�xf5 '1Wxf5 14 .'\Wxf5 Ei'.xf5= when Black is still fine, bur White has escaped with an exchange of queens.

a b c ct e f g h

13.tt:\f4 b5 Now . . . b4 is a serious threat which forces

White's hand.

14.b4 ib6 15.tt:lxbS 111e critical try. Without it White would have

weakened his position for nothing, and Black can continue the arrack with . . . a5 regardless.

8 �:1.tm �:1•m 7 • ,.�. ,w.,T 6 ' 'lffiAi):dw 'n 5 -�-.,].,,, ,�- �

�;i''.0 �-'.0 /. "//)%%.� : J!ln�rtil'liJ� f 2 r . . . . �m :m�,,j�!lf , ,j� 1 m �Mm •li a b c ct e f g h

1 5 . . . lllc4! Black has excellent compensation for the

sacrificed pawn. The knight has taken up a great outpost on c4 and Black's attacking possibilities are considerable.

D2) 8.tt:\g3

8 . . . f6! Challenging the centre. White can react

with either D21) 9.f4 or D22) 9.exf6.

D21) 9.f4 fxe5 10.fxeS id?

8 1.m � �:1•� 3,?.j''.0 �3,?.j'oi'" ,/./, ' "///,/, , , , , Y,3,?.j ''.0� 7 r� .t. r�.ttar r� .t. 6 /.

, "mi)m�• . . m/, .. . . /.m 5 '� '� �m � 4 =��Jt(��-3 �[)� ?.m �0% :m ::'0� ,� � ,� 2 /, , , , /..�,;.,,,,,�-�,;�

�� m�mrm� a b c ct e f g h

Black should be at least equal here. The open f-file prevents White's short castling and the 'French bishop' is headed via e8 to g6, where i t will have a bright future.

I I .1Wd2N White needs to improve on l l .'1Wg4?!

as I played in Berg - Short, Malmo 2002. Here instead of 1 L .lllf5 Black missed an even stronger move in 1 1 . . . �b6!N when the

Chapter 7 - 6 .ie3 107

tactical threat of . . . 'llxe5 causes White serious problems.

l I .id3?!N is also inadvisable due to l I . . . ib6 1 2.'lla4 ixd4 1 3.ixd4 'llxd4 1 4.ixh?t �xh7 1 5.1.Wxd4 ixa4 ! 6.Wxa4 'llg6+ as pointed out by Finkel. ll1e e5-pawn is about to drop and Black is at least slightly better.

l l .ie2!?N is suggested by Finkel without further comment. My suggestion for Black would be l I . . .ixc3t 1 2.bxc3 'lla5, playing on the light squares and intending . . . 'llc4. In the event that White exchanges on c4 with his bishop, Black will obtain the d5-square for the other knight in addition to a great diagonal for his bishop.

ll1e text move is a suggestion from my silicon friend, but it also fails to solve White's problems.

8 xm � ��·� 7 _,_t ____ , ,Y,_,

:�rt�·� 4 �-�z ,,,/flf�-�m/, , ,,/. 3 1{j � � � /, , , /,w(-- - -T,, ,,;- - - - -"� y, _ _ _ _ _ �-�

2 ,JtJ1�Wl,d89. �-- - -� m L. � � a b c d e f g h

1 1 ...a6! This move has two purposes. The first and

most obvious one is ro emphasize that 0-0-0 might not be such a good idea for White due ro ... b5 with an attack.

12.ie2 This is more sensible, bur now Black reveals

his second idea.

12 . .. ctJa7! Intending to continue the light-square

strategy with . . . 'llb5 or possibly . . . ib5 in the next few moves. Black has promising play and White has yet ro solve the problem of castling.

D22) 9.exf6 E'.xf6

Playing for a strong centre with 9 . . . gxf6? is too ambitious here. After I O.id3 e5 l l .dxe5 fxe5 12 .\Wh5 White's initiative proved stronger than Black's centre in Zelic - Kovacevic, Zadar 2007.

I o .ig5 ms i 1 .ib5 Here I found a modest improvement for Black.

l 1 . . .h6N 'This is my preference, although the game continuation of l I . . . Wd6 also gave Black somewhat better chances in Hermann -

Behlen, Bad Wiessee 2002. 1 2.ixe7

Retreating the bishop would be inconsistent with White's I 0th move, and after l 2.ie3 e5+ Black has a strong centre and an open diagonal for the bishop on c8.

1 08 4 .ll'ie2

1 2 . . . ll'ixc7 1 3 .0-0 c6

a b c d c r g h 1 4.�d3

I 4.�c2 is well met by 1 4 . . . �c?+ followed by . . . c5 when Black has solved all his problems and can rely on a small edge thanks to his pair of bishops.

1 4 ... �b6 1 5.ll'icc2 c5! 1 6.dxc5 Wfc?+ Black will soon recapture the c5-pawn with

a favourable position.

s i.m.t� -·� �-�·�r�,, , . ,/./. O/��-�� 7 f� .l f� � f� .l 6 "- - - - "mlim�,--��-- - -"� 5 .�.!a '•� 4 - � - -Wfm �?'% ¥� Wf($ 3 f� ;� re- '&:2_f 2 z . . . /..ti. ;� ,£•ti·;�

!,Cf "�Im "•: a b c d e f g h

10 . . . E:fS! Black gets the rook out of trouble and

prepares the ... e5 break. We saw exactly the same idea in variation B3 of the previous chapter. In most cases the position of the black pawn on h7 instead of h6 makes little difference to the evaluation, although we will see one exception in the note to White's next move.

1 1 .0-0 l l . f4 prevents the . . . c5 break but renders

the bishop on e3 a sorry sight. Black should continue I l . ..�xc3t I 2.bxc3 ll'if5 l 3.ll'ixf5 cxf5 reaching an almost identical position as in the note to White's 1 2th move in l ine B3 of the previous chapter. Herc too Black's chances are at least equal, and the position of the pawn on h7 instead of h6 may even help slightly by making Black's kingsidc more secure.

Herc is a key line where Black cannot follow the exact same path as we saw with the pawn on h6. l l .b4!?N �b6 1 2.ll'ia4 Here I would like to mention two possible continuations .

a b e d e f g h a) Firstly, let us sec what happens if Black proceeds as we saw in the previous chapter: 1 2 . . . c5 I 3 .ll'ixb6 axb6 I 4.dxe5 ll'ixc5 (Black must deviate from the path seen in l ine B3 of the previous chapter, as here 14 .. . d4?! can be met by I 5 .�g5! exploiting the absence of a pawn on h6.) 1 5 .0-0 ll'if5 Black has just enough piece activity to balance White's pair of bishops.

b) 1 2 . . . ll'if5 !? 1 3 .ll'ixf5 exf5 14 .ll'ixb6 axb6 looks like a viable alternative, lead ing to a roughly equal position where the bishop pair is not too significant.

1 1 .. . eS Having achieved this move without giving

up rhc bishop pair, Black is at least equal and

Chapter 7 - 6 .�e3 109

is poised to cake over the in itiative. We will follow the one game on the dacabase for a short while.

12.�g4?! l 2.dxe5? d4 is bad for White. He can avoid

the loss of a piece with l 3 .b4 .ibG l 4.b5, but after l4 . . . dxe3 1 5 .bxcG exf2t 1 6.'it>h l lllxc6 Black has a healthy extra pawn and an overwhelming position.

1he machine recommends the quirky 1 2 . .ig5!?N exd4 l 3.llla4 but after the straightforward 1 3 . . . hG l 4 .. lkxe7 Vfixe7 l 5 .b4 .ibG 1 6.lllxbG axb6 1 7.b5 llld8 l 8.Vfixd4 Vfic5 White is equal at best.

1 3 . .ixd4 lllxd4 1 4.Vfixd4 ( 1 4 . .ixc8 lllf3t! 1 5 .gxf3 E!xcs+) 14 .. . .ibG 1 5 .Vfid l a6!+ Black now has the square a7 for h is bishop in case of llla4. This bishop and the pressure against f2 makes the difference.

13 ... dxc3 l 3 . . . dxe3N may be slightly stronger, and

even the simple l 3 . . . lllxc8N 1 4 . .ixd4 lllxd4 1 5 .Vfixd4 c6 gives Black an obvious positional advantage. In the game White made some further errors and quickly got a losing position, but eventually salvaged a draw after Black failed to capitalize .

14.hb??! gbs 15.hc6?! cxb2 16.gbl? ltJxc6 17.�g4 �f6-+

Danilenko - Borsuk. Bila Tserkva 2006.

Conclusion

6 . .ie3 is a flexible move which can lead to a variety of different position types. In the early part of the chapter we saw some instances of long castling from White, after which Black should gracefully accept the invitation to ram his b-pawn up the board at the earliest convenience. The lase part of the chapter dealt with 7.e5, leading to positions resembling those from the previous chapter. Here too Black can count on good chances, his primary tool for counterplay being a timely .. JG break.

4.exdS Introduction and 8.�f3

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.�c3 .ib4 4.exdS

4 ... exdS A) 5 . .id2 B) S.'1Wf3 '1We7t! 6.�e2 �c6 7.'1Wd3 �f6

Bl) 8.a3 B2) 8.f3

C) S . .id3 �c6 Cl) 6.�e2 C2) 6.a3 hc3t 7.bxc3 �ge7 8.'1Wf3 .ie6

C21) 9.�e2 C22) 9.�bl b6

B) note to 7.Wd3

1 0 . . . !i:hcS!N

C221) 10.�h3 C222) 10.�e2 '1Wd7

C2221) l l.�g3 C2222) l l.�f4 C2223) 1 1 .0-0

B l ) after 12 .Wxc?"f C2223) after 1 4.h4

1 12 1 13 1 14 1 15 1 16 1 16 1 17 1 18 1 19 1 19 120 120 120 121

1 1 2 4 .exd5

I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 �b4 4.exd5 exd5

a b c d e f g h Comparing this pos1t1on to the Exchange

Variation with 3.exd5 exd5, there are some players who believe White can benefit from the inclusion of the moves ctJc3 and . . . ib4. White will generally aim to provoke an exchange on c3 and play actively on the kingside, in the hope that Black's dark-squared bishop will be missed. Black, on the other hand, will have a superior pawn structure withour incurring a space disadvantage as he does in the main l ines of the Winawer.

We will begin by analysing the sidelines A) 5.�d2 and B) 5.'Wff3 before moving on the main line of C) 5.�d3.

5 .a3 ixc3t 6.bxc3 ctJc6 leaves White with nothing better than 7.id3 leading directly to variation C2.

5 .l2if3 should be met by 5 ... t2ie7 in order to exchange the light-squared bishops with . . . ifS later. Many games have occurred but the play is pretty straightforward so I will j ust give one example: 6.id3 (6.a3 ixc3t 7.bxc3 l2ibc6 8.id3 reaches 8.ctJf3 in the notes to variation C2 - see page 1 1 8) 6 . . . t2ibc6 7.0-0 0-0 8.l"i:e 1 if5= L. Schneider - Bareev, Stockholm 1 987.

A) 5.�d2

This move is rarely seen and in general Black scores well. White avoids doubled pawns on the queenside, bur Black doesn't want to exchange on c3 anyway unless a2-a3 is played.

s .. . lllc6 Any sensible move is playable, but I have

chosen to recommend this active developer which attacks the d-pawn. "Il1e position is close to symmetrical, bur Black may benefit from keeping the c8-bishop flexible in comparison to its counterpart on d2.

a b c d e f g h 6.a3

6.ibS ctJge7 doesn't cause Black any problems. An important point is that the bishop on b4 can safely retreat to d6 when necessary, without having to worry about t2lb5 anymore.

6.t2if3 is harmless at best: 6 . . . ctJf6 7.ibS (7.a3?! is too slow, and after 7 . . . ixc3 8.ixc3 0-0 9.ie2 l2ie4 Black is slightly better.) 7 . . . 0-0 8.0-0 ig4 Already it is White who must fight to equalize. T11e bishop is passive on d2 and blocks the queen's defence of the d-pawn.

6 ... �e7 I ntending . . . if6 to put further pressure on

Chapter 8 - Introduction and 8 .iWf3 1 1 3

the d4-pawn. White will soon have to move the bishop from d2, which indicates rhat his opening strategy has not been successful.

7.lDf3 After 7.�b5 �f6 8 .�xc6t bxc6 9.�e3 CiJe7

1 0.h3 0-0 l l .<'i:lf3 <'i:lf5 Black was significanrly better in Lebo - Medic, Sibenik 2009.

Here Black can improve on the game Orzikulova - Verbova, Tashkent 20 1 2, by proceeding with the plan ourlincd above.

8 ... lllge7= The knight is coming to f5 , and Black is

absolutely fine.

B) 5 .Wf3

ll1 is move is analysed by Watson in his Dangerous Weapons book on the French. White prepares long casrling, but his main positional idea is to play a2-a3, to obtain the advantage of the bishop pair without incurring doubled c-pawns.

s . .. We7t!

'This strong move disrupts White's development.

6.lDe2 6.�e3?! has been played several times, but

after 6 ... CiJf6+ Black is already better. His pieces arc more harmonious and the mission with iWf3 has failed.

6.\We3 is not a serious attempt to get an advantage. After 6 . . . CiJc6 Black is ahead 111 development and has at least equalized.

6 .. . lDc6 7.°Wd3 'Ibis is Watson's recommendation, and

probably White's best try. Black certainly has nothing to fear from the following alternatives:

7.Wfxd5?! is too risky: 7 . . . lllf6 8 .'\Wc4 (8.'\Wb5 0-0t) 8 . . . �e6 9 .'1Wd3 0-0-0 1 0.ie3 "This position occurred in K. Larsen - Vester, Denmark 1 972, and here Black has a simple improvement:

7.�e3?! lll f6 8 .h3 8.Wfg3 �xc3t 9.<'i:lxc3 (9.bxc3? is too passive, and after 9 . . . if5 Black has a clear advantage thanks to his superior development.) 9 ... lllxd4 Black wins a pawn with at least a slight advantage.

1 1 4 4 .exd5

8.a3 ixc3t 9.bxc3 (9.lLixc3 lLixd4+) 9 . . . ig4 Black is evidently better thanks to h is superior pawn structure and lead in development.

8 .i �-*--�• �it m���-!; ,,, ,,��-!; 7 t� i ef� � · ef� i 6 /. · '·�-- /-� 5 �:m�#�·�·� : ����;d�! � 0 . . "" '" � 2 � � � -ltl��· 1 �� � �ttB:

a b c d e f g h 8 . . . ixc3t 9.bxc3 lL:ie4 1 0.g3

1 O.lL:if4 lLixc3 l l .lLixd5 lL:ixd5 l 2.1.Wxd5 \Wb4t was awkward for White in Herrero -Robledo, Argentina 1 997.

10 .. . 0-0 l l .ig2 lLia5 1 2.0-0 lL:ic4+ Black had an obvious positional advantage

in Marcinkevicius - Klovas, Lithuania 1 995 .

A final alternative is: 7.\We3

This move has been played successfully by Jobava, but I would not attribute his eventual victory to his opening play.

7 . . . lL:if6 8.a3 At this point Black retreated his bishop to a5 in Jobava - Bukal, Plovdiv 20 1 2, but a better idea was:

a b c d e f g h

8 . . . �.xc3tN 9.\Wxc3 9.lLixc3? loses a pawn to 9 . . . lL:ixd4+ while

9 .bxc3 if5+ gives Black a structural plus. The text move, on the other hand, transposes to the l ine 7.\Wd3 lLif6 8 .a3 ixc3tN 9.\Wxc3 - see variation B I below.

8 l�i:��-�)lf 7 t� .t. t� � • r� .t. 6 /, . . . . %mlim'" , ,/,m .. . . . %� 5 -%�;,�;-� 4 � r� � � 3 .,,,,.���- �- .

��·ef"" ;� ��-'l: ��-� 2 l)l[j���IJJJ[j�¥� f� � ��- :a: a b c d e f g h

7 ... li.Jf6 This natural developing move prepares short

castling and protects the d5-pawn, which gives Black the useful option of retreating his bishop to d6 in some l ines. In other cases, he may react to a2-a3 by exchanging on c3 and jumping with the knight to e4. I t is worth mentioning that Black's last move is not considered at all by Watson, who focuses primarily on 7 . . . ig4.

We will consider two paths for White: Bl) 8.a3 and B2) 8.f.3.

Bl) 8.a3 .L:c3t 9.'Wxc3 llie4

White's stubborn play has netted him the two-bishop advantage, but he has fallen well behind in development.

10.'1We3 I believe White does best to exchange queens,

since otherwise his lack of development may prove catastrophic.

10 . .. ifS l l.f.3 li.Jd6 12.\Wxe?t @xe7!N

Chapter 8 - I ntroduction and 8 .'1Wf3 1 1 5

A clear improvement over 1 2 . . . lllxe7 as occurred in Richter - Fober, Maastricht 2009, for reasons that will become obvious on the next turn.

B2) 8.f3

This is the more prudent option, covering the e4-square before nudging the bishop with a2-a3.

8 . . . a6! Black uses the spare tempo to ensure the

survival of his dark-squared bishop. The

point of the text move is to retreat the bishop to d6 without allowing tllb5 . Black is ahead in development and can be happy with the opening.

9.a3N White may as well play this move at some

point.

9 .ig5 occurred in Buehrmann - Ehrlich, Pinneberg 20 1 0, and here for some reason Black exchanged on c3 voluntarily. A more logical continuation is 9 . . . h6N 1 0.ih4 ie6 1 1 .0-0-0 id6 (or l l . . . g5!?) with equal play.

I also considered the ambitious 9.g4!?N which takes some space but might prove weakening later in the game. Play may continue: 9 . . . ie6 ! O.if4 (or !O .id2 tt:ld7 imending . . . tt:lb6)

9 . . . id6 1nere are no examples of this position on the

database, so I offer an illustrative l ine which looks logical to me.

10.igS ie6 1 1 .0-0-0 h6 12.id2 0-0-0 Ir is also worth considering 1 2 . . . b5!? playing

for a queenside attack.

1 1 6 4.exd5

13.�bl �b8 14.tt'lf4 'Wd7 15.g4 g5 16.CLJxe6 fxe6 17.h4 'Wg7=

'I11e position is about equal. Black has a harmonious set-up with good central control, and White's bishop pair is not making its presence felt.

C) 5.�d3

a b c d e f g h

'I11is natural move is overwhelmingly the most popular choice.

5 . • • CLJc6 At this point Cl) 6.CLJe2 is White's most

significant sideline, but the main line by far is C2) 6.a3.

6.ll'if3 is unlikely to threaten us, although it is important for Black not to become too ambitious. Compare the following two options:

a) 6 ... �g4 is well met by 7.0-0! (7.�e3 is too passive) 7 ... ll'ixd4 8.°We l t ll:'ie6 9.ll'ig5 with a promising initiative for the sacrificed pawn.

b) Instead Black should prefer the simple 6 ... ll:'ige7 7.0-0 0-0 followed by ... �f5 with equal play.

Cl) 6.CLJe2 CLlge7

White's set-up is hardly the most threatening, and perhaps Black's biggest problem is how to generate winning chances against a lower-rated opponent. 'I11ere is not much concrete theory from here, so I have merely outlined some of the main paths and ideas.

7.0-0 7.�g5 f6 8.�f4 �f5 is fine for Black, as

pointed out by Watson in the third edition of Play the French.

7.a3 �xc3t 8 .bxc3 reaches the 8 .ll'ie2 line given in the notes to variation C2 below, while 8.ll'ixc3? drops a pawn after 8 ... ll:'ixd4.

7 ... �5 By exchanging the light-squared bishops

Black solves his opening problems.

By the way, Black can also equalize by playing 7 . . . 0-0 followed by . . . �f5 next, but I would prefer to retain the option of long castl ing.

8.CLJg3 8 .a3 �xc3 9 .bxc3 is similar to 7.a3 in the

note to the previous move.

8 .�f4 0-0 leads to pretty dry equality.

Chapter 8 - I ntroduction and 8 .'\Wf3 1 17

The following grandmaster encounter is worth a brief mention: 8.ic3 '®d7 9.a3 .lkxc3 I O.lllxc3 ixd3 I l .'®xd3 0-0 1 2.f3 1"1ae8 1 3.E!fe I

a b c d e f g h 1 3 . . . llld8!= -n1is knight manoeuvre is worth remembering. Black prepares to fortify his central pawn with . . . c6, and the knight will come to e6 later. The position is equal and a draw was soon agreed in Alekseev - Socko, Lublin 20 1 1 .

8 .! � ;�·� �� �-��·ef"· · ·\ .,,t�.�-�- .. < 7 r� • r� � • r� I. 6 ,, .. /.m�m» . . . . . ... . ·"'m : •mA\�,·� 3 J��If��� •m'lf' ·�·0'1f' H 2 iedJ�ii?

a b c d e f g h

s ... Ld3 9.�xd3 �d7= ll1is position first occurred in Spielmann

- Samisch, Wiesbaden 1 925, and has been repeated many times since. Ihe chances are balanced, but Black has the practical advantage of being able to choose between a quiet game with shore castling and a double-edged affair with ... h5 and ... 0-0-0 .

C2) 6.a3 hc3t 7.bxc3 Cllge7

8 ,!�j_�·- �� 7 w!�� '�'·· 6

/. . . . %·�-// . . . . . .. � . . . . . %_ � � � � 5 � � · - � 4 m � m m m·�· m·00 � � 3 ���-.-!!'/" �#!'-' 2 /"' •J)?/�/?:'/J�,,QJ� ;;,Ff� ��'I.Wt� ?J:"':V, 'R �� � § 8'§"� ��: § /, , . , .� / , , , ,Y. /, . . , , % )'/. , , , . ,

a b c d e f g h This can be regarded as the main tabiya

for the 4.exd5 variation. From here the main move is 8 .'®h5, which will form the subject of the next chapter beginning on page 1 23. In rhe present chapter we will consider another important queen move, along with some minor alternatives.

8.�f3 -lllis has nor been as popular as 8.'®h5, bur

it has been used by some strong players and should be taken seriously. White is aiming ro restrict the development of rhe c8-bishop. l11e queen might also create attacking possibilities against the king, in the event that Black opts for short castling.

Alternatives are mostly harmless and can be dealt with quickly:

8.E!b 1 b6 will most l ikely rranspose to other lines after either 9.'®h5 or 9.\Wf3. 9 .llle2 is an independent option when Black continues 9 . . . if5 1 0.0-0 0-0 with a balanced position.

8.ig5 f6 9.if4 if5 gave Black a good position in Hausmann - Stolz, Germany 1 999. ll1e position is pretty closed, so there is no significanr advantage in having a bishop

1 1 8 4 .exd5

instead of a knight. Black has a potentially strong outpost for a knight on c4 and White has long-term pawn weaknesses on the queenside.

8 .lll f3 0-0 9.0-0 if5 is a similar story; Black's structural superiority is worth at least as much as White's pair of bishops, one of which is about to be exchanged off.

8 .llle2 should be met by 8 . . . if5 (instead 8 . . . 0-0 9.lllg3 forces the bishop to take up a more passive position) 9 .lllg3 ixd3 1 0.cxd3 0-0 1 1 .0-0 \Wd7 when Black is well developed and has a sol id position.

8 i.�.t�•� �� �-��-�·· · · '/,% "/��-�· · · · ·" 7 f� i f� aY i f� i

:�f�� 3 � �ilHVm 2 m 8 H B 8 U i�J: ??'� - �ffl R �� � ��i �: .§,

a b c d e f g h

8 ... ie6 This is the best available square for the

bishop. Black's plan from here involves . . . \Wd7 and later . . . if5 , keeping the option of castling on either wing. From here we will briefly consider C21) 9.ltJe2, bur the main line is C22) 9.gbl .

9.lllh3 \Wd7 1 0.lllg5 ( 1 0.lllf4 reaches the note to White's 1 Orh move in line C2 l below) 1 O . . . if5 Black is doing fine; the position can be compared with line C22 l below, where the moves 9.!!b 1 b6 have been inserted.

C21) 9.ltJe2 Wd7

8 1��-�-�-�-��� 7 f� i f��� · f� i 6 ,, . %•i)nl·m% . . . . %n : ·.-� .. . 3 � ��"ilmlm � 2 m 8 HllJU 8 � �- . . -� W<;�pwR � ,,

P.� � �� �M a b c d e f g h

10.0-0 1 O .tllg3 0-0 can be compared with variation

C222 l below, with the moves 9.!!b 1 b6 included. It is hard to imagine that this can be an inferior version for Black.

1 O.tllf4 allows Black to choose between two good options:

a) 10 ... 0-0!? l 1 .lllxe6 \Wxe6t 1 2.@d l 8'.fe8 1 3.8'.e l �d7 Black is ready to regroup, either with . . . lllg6 or with . . . 8'.ad8 followed by . . . lllc8. A possible continuation is l 4.if4 lllg6 l 5 .8'.xe8t 8'.xe8 l 6.ig3 llla5 with decent play for Black.

b) 1 0 . . . if5 1 1 .0-0 0-0-0 has been seen in a few games, i ncluding Shorr - Timman, Tilburg 1 990. 1he position with opposite­sided castl ing offers chances to both sides. Black is ready to start pushing his kingside pawns and may be able to drive back both White's knight and queen with gain of tempo.

l0 ... h5!? Contrary to the similar position from the

later variation C2223 with 9.8'.b l b6 included, i t looks quite appealing for Black to go for opposite-sided castl ing as his queenside has nor been weakened.

l l .a4

Chapter 8 - Introduction and 8 .W'f3 1 1 9

111is position occurred in Ohlzon - Bartel, Stockholm 2000, and now I will suggest an obvious novelty:

1 1 ...0-0-0N

8 �-�m11�Z "/�m�.J� 7 f� ' f�if� ' f� 6 /,,, . z.li)ml•////. s m m ' m _ , 4 � m �� m m 3 m •�mvm 2 m � ml{J� � f� � - - - � �-�?, � /..: ;:; ra � ����

a b c d e f g h

12.aS a6! Black should prevent the further advance

of the a-pawn, which would weaken his light squares and invite rhe annoying .ib5 with a dangerous pin.

Now chat White's immediate threats are prevented, Black can proceed with his kingside attack. He would l ike to push . . . h4-h3 to weaken the l ight squares. IfWhite prevents that plan by playing h2-h3 himself, Black can play . . . !!dg8 followed by . . . g5-g4 when the kingside will open up. It seems to me that Black is well coordinated for the kingside attack and the white queen can be used as a target. White, on the ocher hand, has no pawn breaks, which will make his attack harder to carry out.

C22) 9.gbl

If White wanes to play this move it's better to do it at this point. If he waits until Black has played . . . �d7, the second player can simply respond with . . . 0-0-0.

9 .. . b6

Now we will consider C221) IO.l2Jh3 followed by the more common C222) IO.l2Je2.

C221) IO.l2Jh3

a b c d e f g h

White aims to bring the knight to g5, bur this idea is nothing to worry about for Black.

10 ... W'd? 1 1 .llJgS l l .lLlf4 is analysed under lO .lLle2 �d7

I l .4Jf4 - see variation C2222 below.

1 1 •.. .ifS As a general rule, Black should avoid

allowing his second bishop to be exchanged for the enemy knight, unless there is a particularly good reason.

12.g4 After 1 2.0-0 0-0 Black is solid and White's

'lLlgS mission' has failed.

12 .. . .ig6 Black has everything well protected and

White's last move could prove to be just another weakness. The following game is an instructive example of how Black may rake over the advantage.

13 . .ie3 0-0-0 14.hg6 l2Jxg6 15.\Wxf7 \Wxg4 16.cbd2 gd7 17.gbgl gxf7 18J:hg4 g{6

1 20 4 .exd5

Black was clearly better in Lau - Yusupov, Austria 1 998.

C222) 10.tlie2

a b c d e f g h

This is the main line, for good reason as the knight has more flexibility on e2 .

10 . .. \Wd7 Black prepares . . . . �.f5 . He will usually opt for

short castling, bur in a few cases he may park the king on the other wing, especially if the l ight-squared bishops have been exchanged.

There are three main options for us to consider: C2221) l 1 .lllg3, C2222) l 1 .lllf4 and C2223) 1 1 .0-0.

C2221) I 1 .lllg3

a b c d e f g h

1his move prevents . . . �.f5, but apart from that one objective, the knight is rather passive and contributes l ittle to White's posi tion.

1 1 .. .0-0 12.0-0N TI1is seems like White's best attempt ro

justify his last move.

1 2.h3 occurred in Holzhaeuer - Graf, Dresden 2004. White conr inues the prophylactic thinking and prevenrs . . . ig4. However, he is losing additional time and eventually the bishop will get out anyway. My suggestion is: l 2 ... 1%ae8N 1 3 .0-0 lLia5 Black has a good position and a firm grip on the c4-square. I f necessary, the bishop can always find a way out after .. . fG followed by ... if7-g6.

12 .. . ig4 13.\Wf4 1 3.1We3 lll f5 1 4.1Wf4 Cllxg3 1 5 .1Wxg3 if5 is

equal.

13 • . . tlig6 14.\Wd2

a b c d e f g h

14 ... ie6!= lllis move is necessary in order ro meet f2-f4

with .. . f5 . Now Black has a safe position and is ready to continue his queenside play with . . . Clla5-c4 .

C2222) l 1 .lllf4

Chapcer 8 - I ncroduccion and 8 .Wf3 1 2 1

1 1 ...il,fS Black avoids being left with cwo knights

against cwo bishops, and prepares to exchange the more active of the enemy b ishops.

12.0-0 hd3 13.cxd3 0-0-0 'Th e black king is precty safe o n the queenside

now that the l ight-squared bishops have been exchanged. Black is ready to create some activity o n che kingside, while Whice still has to think about how to develop his remaining bishop.

14.llJhS Here I would like to deviate from che game

Reinaldo Cascineira - Barsov, Zaragoza 2008.

14 . . . ltJfSN This seems l ike che obvious choice.

1 5.a4 g6 16.ctJg3 CLJxg3 17.fxg3!? I 7.Wxg3 h6= is pretcy uneventful, bur i c

i s worth checking if Whice can benefic from opening the f-file.

17 . . . fS 18.il,gS l:'l:de8 19.l:'l:b5 CLJe7 Black is fine due co che following point:

C2223) 1 1 .0-0

"ll1is has been Whice's mos[ popular choice.

1 22 4 .exd5

1 1 ...�fS 12.lllg3 l 2.lllf4 leads ro the previous variation

C2222.

12 ... hd3 13.cxd3 In comparison ro the position from the

previous main variation with the knight on f4, we may note the following differences. Firstly, Black is unable ro castle long since his pawn on f7 requires protection. On the other hand, the white knight is less active on g3 than on f4 .

13 . .. 0-0 From this position the chances should be

approximately equal. Since Black no longer has the c4-square available as an outpost, the knight manoeuvre . . . llld8-e6 makes a lot of sense. The knight will be excellently placed on e6, for both attacking and defensive purposes. Once it has arrived there, the pawn push . . . c5 will be a logical follow-up. Finally, as a general rule, Black should be happy to exchange a pair of knights if the opportunity arises.

14.h4 1 4.a4 occurred in the game E. Paehtz -

M. Socko, Leon 200 1 . Herc I like the reply 1 4 . . . lllg6!N in order ro prevent the h2-h4 advance. Black still needs ro be a l ittle careful, since after l 5.lllh5 White has tactical threats such as ih6 and even 'Wf6. l11c correct way ro handle the situation is: 1 5 . . . f6 1 6.ia3 Ei:fd8! I r is important to keep the queen protected so as not to allow Vtf xf6. White's position might look attractive for the moment, but i t is hard to make further progress, while White's structural weaknesses will remain for a long time.

After the text move I found an important improvement.

a b c d e f g h

14 . . . ll:idS!N Better than l 4 . . . Ei:ae8 l 5 .h5 h6 i 6.a4 llld8

1 7 .. �a3 llle6 1 8 .ixc7 as p layed in Hick) -Uhlmann, Potsdam 1 988 . In chis instance rhe black pawn did nor reach c5 in rime and White was somewhat better.

1 5.h5 h6= Now everything is in order for Black; the

knicrht will come to e6 next, and he will be b ready to play . . . c5 at any moment, especially if the white bishop arrives on a3.

Conclusion

Of the early sidelines, 5 .id2 is harmless. 5 .'Wf3 is more interesting and might cause problems for an unprepared player, bur with correct play Black's prospects are at least equal.

Moving on to the main l ines of the chapter, 8 .Vtff3 leads to interesting p lay. Black's general plan will be . . . ie6 and . . . 'Wd7 with the intention of activating and/or exchanging his bishop. As long as Black pays attention to his opponent's set-up and reacts accordingly - for instance, in selecting the side of the board on which to castle - he should have no problems.

4.exdS a b c d e f g h

Main Line with 8.�h5

Variation Index l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.�c3 i.h4 4.exd5 exd5 5.i.d3 �c6

6.a3 bc3t 7.hxc3 �ge7 8.YNh5

A) 9.�e2 B) 9.�f3 YNd7 10.�g5 0-0-0

Bl) l l .�xe6 B2) 1 1.0-0

C) 9.�hl b6!

8 ... i.e6

Cl) 10.�e2 YNd7 l 1.�g3 i.g4!N Cl l) 12.YNg5 Cl2) 12.YNh4

C2) 10.�f3 YNd7 l 1.�g5 0-0-0 C21) 12.h3 C22) 12.�xe6 C23) 12.0-0

A) after 1 5 .�g5 B I ) after I 5.!lfe I

l 5 . .. li:\xg3!N

Cl) after I I .li:'ig3

124 126 126 127 130 130 132 132 133 134 135 136

1 24 4 .exd5

I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.exd5 exd5 5.id3 lllc6 6.a3 ixc3t 7.bxc3 lllge7 8.�h5

a b c d e f g h

lhis can be considered che main line of che 4.exd5 system. White deploys che queen on an active square and prevents Black from cascling on che kingsidc for the time being.

8 .. . ie6 Just as in the previous chapter, we begin

with chis standard developing move, intending . . . \Wd7 with ideas of activating the bishop on f5 or g4. 111cre arc three main paths: A) 9.llle2, B) 9.lll8 and C) 9.l"1.bl .

9.ctJh3 \Wd7 has little independent value: I O.lt:\f4 reaches the note to White's I Och move in variation A below; I O.llig5 transposes to variation B .

A) 9.llle2 �d7 10.lllg3

This seems like a logical follow-up, preventing the exchange of l ight-squared bishops. Here is a selection of al cernacives.

1 0.Ei:b l b6 is covered under che 9.!"1.b l move order in variation C I . Black could also consider the more advencurous 1 0 . . . 0-0-0!? .

1 0.h3 is a somewhat useful move which

prevents . . . �g4, but ic is rather slow. After I O . . . �f5= followed by . . . 0-0 Black has a good position.

I O.llif4 :�.g4 gives White a choice of queen moves, neither of which is much of a cl1!'eac:

a) I I .\Wh4 occurred in Pfreundcner -R. Rechel, Germany 1 994, and now afrer I l . . .�f5N 1 2.0-0 0-0= Black has a solid game.

b) 1 1 .\Wg5N 0-0 1 2.h3 �f5 1 3.0-0 f6 14 .\Wg3 ( 1 4 .\Wh5 Ei:fe8=) 1 4 . . . lt:\g6 Black is poised co exchange a pair of knights as well as che light-squared bishops. Wich chis achieved, he will have ac lease equal chances due to his better pawn scruccure.

I O.O-O �g4 1 1 .\Wg5 ( I J .\Wh4N �f5=) 1 1 . . .0-0 occurred in S. Jensen - Kendall, email 200 I . Here a logical continuation looks co be: I 2. lt'ig3!?N Preventing che bishop from coming co f5 . ( 1 2.h3N �f5 =) 1 2 . . . fG 1 3 .\Wf4 lt:\g6 1 4.\Wd2 �e6= Black has not yet managed to exchange the l ight-squared bishops, but White's efforts to prevenc chis plan have affected his development and coordination.

s i: H m�m �� �-� �-�/,'"/���-� 7 f� i f��� · f� i 6 / · "n'IS)m/1·a . . . . ,,m � -.-,-.-. ;:?,i //, �,1''0 � z "//,/, 3 f� f�i..- � 2 /... . %.�/,-����

.

. � C"'/ ��-� �/',:Y,{ . . . . '-� . . . z ?� � �i RM

a b c d e f g h

10 ... 0-0-0!? So far chis move has scored duce wins out

of cluee for Black. l e makes perfect sense, considering chat White has deployed all his

Chapter 9 - Main Line with 8 .'Wh5 125

forces on the kingside. Now Black is ready to push his pawns forward with . . . g6 and . . . h5 .

1 1 .0-0 �de8!? Black makes a useful prophylactic move

before going into action. lbe main idea is to avoid a future attack from a white bishop coming to g5 .

12.a4 g6 13.Wff3 hS 14.h4 ctJfS! IS.ig5 1 5 .lllxf5 ixf5 1 6.ig5 ( 1 6.ixf5?! \Wxf5

1 7.\Wxf5t gxf5+ gives Black good conrrol over the light squares and activity along the e-fi.le.) l 6 . . . ie4= Black has managed to activate the bishop and has a good game. ll1ere is no need to exchange on d3 yet, so Black should delay it for a few moves and perhaps try to provoke f2-f3.

l 5 . . . 1"\hf8 led to an eventual success for Black in Caspar - Uhlmann, Liepzig 1 982. The problem with chis approach is seen after 1 6.1"\fe I !N when Black has the following options:

a) The move Black would l ike co play is l 6 .. .f6, but after l 7.ixf5 ixf5 l 8 .:i'i:xe8t :i'i:xe8 1 9.lllxf5 'Wxf5 20.\Wxf5t gxf5 2 I .ixf6

che endgame is quire dangerous for him. Ac fi.rsc ic looks as though Black's activity and l ight-square conrrol offer compensation for the pawn, but after investigating a bit further I found White's councerplay with f2-f3 and g2-g4 to be dangerous, as a passed rook's pawn is known co be a knight's worse enemy.

b) For chis reason Black should settle for 1 6 . . . lllxg3 1 7.'Wxg3 if5 when the position is close to equal, but by comparison with the note to White's next move below, che fi.rst player already has his rook on e I here, which muse help him slightly.

16.fxg3!? I 6.'Wxg3 should of course be met by

1 6 . . . if5 . As usual when Black has achieved the goal of exchanging the l ight-squared bishops, he can claim equality although there is still plenty of play left in che position .

"ll1e cexc move i s more ambitious but carries certain risks. White has prevented . . . if5 for the cime being, but in doing so he has permanently weakened his pawn structure on the kingside.

16 .. ,<j/b8!= Black must take care of his king, otherwise

an arcack on the b-fi.le might be dangerous.

1 26 4 .exd5

111erefore Black should hide the king on a8 while planning to meet a4-a5 with . . . a6. 111e ensuing position is roughly equal, as White's activity is balanced our by Black's superior pawn structure.

B) 9.ttJf3

a b c d e f g h

9 • . . Y*f d7 10.ttJg5 1 0.h3N has nor been tried so far. This

prevents . . . ig4, but after 10 . . . if5= Black has no problems as he can exchange off his problem bishop at any moment.

1 o.llle5 111is simplifying move should not worry Black.

1 0 . . . lllxe5 l l .W'xe5 0-0 1 2.0-0 if5 Exchanging the light-squared bishops 1s usually the best way forward for Black.

1 3 .�b l ixd3 1 4 .cxd3

a b c d e f g h

Here Black chose 1 4 . . . cG in the game Archangelsky - Rozentalis, Hoogeveen 2005, but I would prefer a differenc pawn move.

1 4 . . . bG!N I find this move more logical, as now the

b-pawn will not require constant protection by the queen. Black's plan from here will be to rake control over the e-file and later try to exploit White's pawn weaknesses on the queenside. The position is close to equal, but I think White has the slightly harder task, as the alleged advancage of bishop over knight is not so important with a blocked centre, while the queenside pawn weaknesses are real and long­lasting.

a b c d e f g h

10 ... 0-0-0 This typical reply can be compared with the

later variation C2, which is identical except for the inclusion of the moves �b 1 and . . . b6. White's two main options are Bl) l 1 .tlJxe6 and B2) 1 1 .0-0.

Bl) l 1 .tLlxe6 Y*fxe6t 12 . .ie3

"Ihe endgame arising after 1 2.W'e2 W'xe2t 1 3 .©xe2, as seen in Bae - Bern, Bergen 2000, is about equal. White's bishop pair is compensated by Black's better pawn structure and control of the l ight squares, especially c4.

Chapter 9 - Main Line with 8.'1Wh5 1 27

A good way to emphasize this point would be with the immediate 1 3 . . . ctJa5N.

8 �-,,, -;1�% ,,,-�.)� 7 i� , ef� � i ef� i 6 : '•:-:ji• '• : ·1!·�·1!·1 �-,,, ��·ef""%�-� ��-3 t� r��� m 2 /, . , , . %•�%., , . , ,�n��� �""� ·m ��·;-,{" "%m% . . . %

--� . � - � a b c d e f g h

12 ... g6 13.'1Wf3 lllf5 Black would ideally like to exchange one of

the enemy bishops, as the pair of them together might eventually become powerful.

14.0-0 l 4.ixf5?! was an instructive error seen

in Lutz - Kindermann, Garmisch (rapid) 1 994. This exchange damages the black pawn structure, but it comes at a high price as now Black's other knight will have free access to the c4-square. 1 4 . . . \Wxf5!N In the game Black took with the pawn, but a queen exchange will make his advantage even more significant. l 5 .\Wxf5t gxf5+ TI1e weakness of the f5-pawn is of no importance at the moment, since White has no way to attack it . Black is in full control and will continue to improve his position by bringing the knight to c4 and rooks to the e- and/or g-files according to circumstance.

14 ... lllxe3 1 5.gfel White wants to avoid getting a backward

pawn on e3. This position occurred in Bromann - Kovacevic, Budapest 1 999, and a couple of subsequent games. Now we reach an important moment, where Black can derive a

clear benefit from the fact that the moves E!:b 1 and . . . b6 have not been played.

8 m�!� � �� 7 •rm n'n' 6 U'S)U�U i U

: •ll.,.ll.ll 3 .ll.,��11! 1! 2 , 'ij Li'W' • '· :11, ll•llri 'r1t'

a b c d e f g h

15 ... llle5!N This clever tactic would not work if the

bishop could check on a6.

16.Wfxe3 l 6.dxe5 ctJc4 gives Black slightly the more

comfortable side of a roughly equal position.

16 ... lllxd3 17.Wfxe6t fxe6 1 8.cxd3 gd6 The rook endgame is roughly equal, buc

Black has the more comfortable game due to the queenside pawn weaknesses.

B2) 1 1 .0-0

1 28 4 .exd5

l l . .. ig4 1his typical sacrifice will also be seen later in

variation C23.

12.\Wxf7 1his move enters a rather forcing and risky

line for White, who could lose outright after a single mistake. Even if he plays perfectly, Black will still have strong counterplay for the material.

'TI1e calmer l 2.\Wh4 �f5 leads to an equal game, but it is worth paying attention to the following line: 1 3 .lDxf7 �xd3 1 4.lDxdS

a b c d e f g h

1 4 . . . lDg6!N ( 1 4 . . . �xfl 1 5 . lDxc6 lDxc6 1 6. Wxfl \Mf f5 gave Black full compensation for the pawn in Kovalev - Borsuk, Alushta 2009, but the text move leads to a more favourable version of that scenario.) l 5 .\Mf g3 �xfl 1 6.lDxc6 �xg2 1 7.lDxa?t Wb8 1 8.©xg2 ©xa7� Black has excellent compensation for the missing pawn, both positionally and in terms of attacking chances against White's vulnerable king.

12 . . . h6! 13.80 Now Black has a pleasant choice between

two promising moves.

13 . . J�dfS!? If you turn ahead to page 1 3 7 you will sec

that in the analogous position with the rook

on b l and pawn on b6, I suggest retreating the bishop to f5 . The same move works perfectly well here too, so if you wish to play that way there is no reason nor to. However, the text move is slightly more appealing here than in the analogous position from variation C23, as the queen sacrifice mentioned in the next note does not carry quite the same force.

14.\Wxg? Despite the above comment, l 4.fxg4!?

may well be the best continuation here. After 1 4 . . . :gxf7 1 5 .lDxfl :ges 1 6.g5 hxg5 1 7.�xg5 Wb8 White had sufficient compensation but no advantage in Brendel - Yusupov, Stockholm 2002. In the equivalent position with 9 .m) l b6 inserted, White would be able to establish a troublesome pin by placing his bishop on b5, but with the pawn on b7 this idea does not trouble Black.

Nevertheless, some players may prefer the relative simplicity of 1 3 ... �f5 as noted above, so I will let the reader make his own decision as to which line he ultimately wishes to play.

a b c d e f g h

14 . • . if5! Another important move, after which White

must play accurately to maintain the balance.

1 5.'llf7

Chapter 9 - Main Line with 8 .'.Wh5 1 29

A serious error is: 1 5 .ixf5 ? Wxf5 1 6.g4

l 6.tLlh3? Elfg8 traps the queen . 1 6 . . . Wd7 1 7.tt:Jf7

l 7.ctJh3? allows a nice finish: l 7 . . . Ei:hg8 1 8.WxhG

a b c d e f g h 1 8 . . . Wxg4t! l 9 .fxg4 l'l:xg4t and mate in two.

l 7 . . . tt:Jf5 ! l 8.Wxh8 l'l:xh8 l 9 .ctJxh8 Wg7 20.tt:Jf7 tt:Jh4

White is in trouble, as attempts to save the knight lead to disaster:

a b c d e f g h 2 l .ctJe5

2 1 . ctJxhG tt:Jxd4! is winning for Black. 2 1 . . .ctJxeS 22.dxe5 h5!

Black has an overwhelming attack.

15 .. J�hg8 16.Clle5! This move enables White to escape the worst

and liquidate to an ending. However, the fight is not over yet.

16 .. ,gxg7 17.ctJxd7 gfg8! 1 7 . . . @xd7? 1 8.ixhG would give White

the advantage in view of the powerful passed pawns on the kingside.

a b c d e f g h

18.hfs 1 8 .ctJe5 ixd3 1 9 .cxd3 �xg2t 20 .@h l

�c2+ gives Black an advantage in view of his superior piece activity as well as White's many pawn weaknesses.

18 • • ,gxg2t 19.@hl lllxf5

s �·� B:im 7 � i mct:JU B 6 � 'i1� � w� : •:•Z.I•;

0 % &,1% %" '&,I &,I� � � ��.�.&,I''· 1 ?� � � M�@ ,., V, ,, , , , , Y, � �

a b c d e f g h

20.lllf6 ggg6 2 1 .Cllxd5 gxc2 22.if4 lllce7 Black's superior piece activity more than

makes up for m issing pawn, and he went on to win in Brendel - Rueetschi , Switzerland 2007.

1 30 4 .exd5

C) 9J�bl

Finally we come to the main line.

9 ... b6! This move blunts the attack on the b-file and

avoids misplacing any of Black's p ieces. From here the play will proceed in broadly the same way as in the previous variations A and B. It is true that the weakening of Black's light squares on the queenside will alter the evaluation of certain variations (there is, after all, a reason why 9.gb l is the main line) but the move . . . b6 also has some positive attributes. I have paid close attention to the nuances of the following variations, and will highlight those instances where the inclusion of gb 1 and . . . b6 necessitates a different approach.

From this position White normally chooses either Cl) 10.llle2 or C2) 10.lllf3.

I O .ll'ih3 'Wd7 will transpose co one of the main lines after l l .ll'ig5 or I 1 .ll'if4.

I O.ig5 This has been played on a single occasion. White was successful in that game, but Black's play can easily and immediately be improved.

I O . . . 'Wd7N

Better than I O . . . 'Wd6?! as played in Belie -Petraki, Pula 1 990. ll1e queen belongs on d7 where she supports the ideas of either . . . ig4 or . . . if5.

I 1 .ll'ie2 I I .ib5?! is well met by I l . . .ig4 1 2.'Wh4 f6+ followed by ... 0-0 when Black is already somewhat better thanks to his rapid development. 1 I .h3 prevents ... ig4, but after l I ... if5 Black is already more than happy. White has wasted some time, while Black has played useful moves and is ready for short cascling.

8 1-m-�-�-m-�� 1 r� r��ar ' r� ' 6 %-�-).�/. /.� 5 - � · � �if 4 �W/J U. � 3 � �W!J�-�-� L % % ; � � 2 U. t!J ULZJO t!J � �-:s:� = ' �11

a b e d e f g h I I . . .ig4 1 2.'Wh4 f6 1 3.id2 h5

White's queen is starting to feel uncomfortable. There is also a positional threat of . . . ll'if5, forcing the exchange of White's better bishop.

1 4.0 if5+ White has lost time with ig5-d2 as well as

the weakening f2-f3. Black's kingside play is well underway and his king can park itself on the queenside in the near future.

Cl) 10.llle2 Wf d7 l 1 .lllg3

ll1is is the most popular option, preventing the black bishop from coming to f5 . Three other moves have been tried:

1 1 .0-0 ig4 1 2.'Wg5 ( 1 2.'Wh4 if5=) 1 2 ... 0-0 1 3.ll'ig3 ( 1 3.h3 if5=) 1 3 .. .f6 1 4.'Wf4N

Chapter 9 - Main Line with 8.1.Wh5 1 3 1

( l 4.'Wd2 l"lfe8= Preziuso - Hirsch, corr. 1 994) 1 4 . . . tt:lg6 1 5 .°Wd2 !e6= Black has not yet managed to exchange the bishops, but White has lost time and sacrificed some coordination , so the chances are equal.

l l .h3 prevents . . . !g4 but allows 1 1 . . . . �JS . ( 1 1 . . .0-0-0?! has been played a few times, but on this occasion I would regard long casding as slighdy too risky in view of the light-square weaknesses.) 1 2.0-0 ( l 2.lllf4 0-0=) Now in Etmans - Harley, London 1 994, the simple 1 2 . . . 0-0N= would have seen Black complete his development and reach a solid position.

l 1 .tll f4 1his has only been played on a single occasion, but it is a natural move which challenges the bishop on e6 and puts pressure to the d5-pawn.

l l . . . !g4!N A small refinemenc. 'fhe immediate 1 1 . . . !fS was played in Jahnz - B. Schneider, Berlin 200 1 , but before exchanging bishops i t is useful to force the white queen to a less attractive square.

a b c d e f g h 1 2.'WgS

1 2.'Wh4 !f5 1 3 .0-0 0-0= gives Black a solid game.

1 2 . . . 0-0 1 3 .h3 !f5 14.0-0 f6 1 5.\Wg3 1 5 .'Wh5 llla5=

l 5 . . . lllg6=

The situation is identical to the l ine with I O.lllf4 examined in the notes on page 1 24, except for the inclusion of the moves l"lb l and . . . b6. I can see no drawback for Black in having those moves included here. Once again, after exchanging the light-squared bishops plus a pair of knights, Black will have a solid position with good long-term chances due to his better pawn structure.

Let's return now to the more common l 1 .lllg3, which prevents Black's plan of exchanging the light-squared bishops. At this point I would like to propose a novelty.

1 1 . . . 0-0-0 has been rhe most popular choice and leads to mutual attacking chances. Statistically Black has scored well , but according to my analysis White holds an advantage with correct play.

I l . . . hG!? is an interesting move. 'TI1e point is chat after 1 2.0-0? !g4 1 3 .'Wh4, as played in Prokopchuk - S. Ivanov, Maikop 1 998, Black can put the enemy queen under serious pressure with 1 3 . . . f5!N+.

1 32 4 .exd5

Unfortunately White can improve with l 2.h3!;l; when his chances should be slightly higher in rhe ensuing sharp position with opposite-side castling.

Against my new suggestion White has two possible replies: Cl 1) 12.°WgS and C12) 12.°Wh4.

Cl 1) 12.°WgS

This allows Black to castle without delay.

12 ... 0-0 13.h3 1 3 .0-0 f6! is equal.

13 ... .ie6 14.0-0 lllg6 White keeps some trace of an initiative on

the kingside, but Black is solid and has enough defensive resources. In the long run his better pawn structure may come into play.

15J�el 1 5 . f4 will be met by 1 5 . . . f6 l 6."<Wh5 f5 when

White's attack is blocked and the bishop on cl looks rather sad.

a b c d e f g h 1 5 . .. f6 1 6.°WhS :gae8 17 . .id2 ClJa5!

Black is fine. I r is worth noting that his last move offered a pawn sacrifice char White had better ignore. Taking on g6 would be a major

mistake, as Black would seize full control over the light squares and his knight would dominate the game from c4.

C12) 12.°Wh4

This move prevents short castling for rhe moment, but al lows Black to make a troublesome check.

12 ... °We6t! White has some temporary coordination

problems. In fact he does best to move his king, as other moves make things even worse.

13.@fl 1 3.�e3? lLig6 1 4.�xg6 ( 1 4."<WgS ?? h6 drops

material for White) 1 4 . . . "<WxgG gives Black a solid advantage thanks to White's chronic l ight-square and structural weaknesses.

1 3 .lLie2?! is mer by 1 3 . . . • llxe2! l 4.�xe2 0-0+ when White suffers from rhe pressure along the e-file.

8 ;i� � . ��·� 7 w;::� �irr*� ... wEi ... �-� 9.A� ��l A ?'A� A 6 /. /r.l�-i'· z� /, , . . , Z � � �� s m Wl i R WI 4 � � � Ni 3 ��W/j'f: J�e,L,; 2 , %•��•rf]�t!l

� F'i1 i(� � � F'i1 � � � � ?'� � a b c d e f g h

An important point is char after 1 5 ."<Wg4 lLifS 1 6.0-0 Black has rhe tactical resource 1 6 . . . ltJfxd4! 1 7.cxd4 f5 when he wins back the bishop on e2 while keeping a healthy extra pawn.

1 3. 'ttid2!? looks risky but might be playable. Black should continue 1 3 . . . lLigG in order to

Chapter 9 - Main Line with 8 .\Wh5 133

ger rhe maximum our of the posirion. 1 4.\Wg5 ( 1 4.�xgG '.Wxg6+ leaves White seriously weak on the light squares.)

8 ;,:,� u�-�mtm .,)� 7 �� ¥� � · � · 6 w��-�,- - - - �"- - - -"� �L.%�--,-� m 5 - � · m m 4 m � m.t-� 3 �� 0,��%j;.,%���ffi" / 0,�m,,,,/' J

�0% �Cf & � · · · /, , , , , %, /, , , , , % %;?. � : 2 . m b m -� �-r� BM� -�·Ji

a b c d e f g h

13 . .. tlig6 13 .. . 0-0-0 14 .f3 �f5 1 5 .l2'lxf5 l2'lxf5 1 6.\Wg4

g6 1 7.@f2 gives White a safe position with chances to press for an edge with his bishop pair.

14.\Wgs h6 1s.\Wd2 1 5 .\We3 '.Wxe3 1 6.ixe3 l2'la5=

1 5 ... tllce7 16.f3 �JS Exchanging the second bishop for a knight

does not harm Black's chances too much.

s i·j}l��-j}lJI : � �-��1,f� • "•l� ifdj�,, : �.���,�. �M% -�w.-J . . . J •. � �/, ,,,� 3 �LJ eflj�� b � 2 /.,, ·"m"'�"� �� //�_;r�

- � rr:ef � ��, ' � � �@�M a b c d e f g h

17.tllxfS tllxfS 18.\Wel \Wxel t 19.<±ixel tlld6 20. @fl <±id7 =

The position is level. The knight on d6 is excellent, while White's bishops lack the open diagonals they need to make themselves heard.

C2) 10.ctJf3

10 ... \Wd7 1 1 .ctJgS This is almost always played. Here are a few

rare alternatives:

1 34 4 .exdS

1 1 .tLleS?! simplifies che posmon which can only be co Black's advancage. 1 1 . . .lLlxeS 1 2.IM!xeS ( 1 2.dxeSN ig4 l 3.IM!h4 [ 1 3 .IMf gS 0-0=] 13 . . . tLlg6= Black is ready co cascle and his chances are ac lease equal.) 1 2 . . . 0-0= Kecc - Olsson, Gochenburg 2005 . The posicion is close co equal but Black has che easier game. "D1e next steps are co challenge White's bishop with . . . ifS and then take control over the e-file.

l 1 .h3 "D1is has been played in two games with a perfect score for White, but neither game was contested at a very high level. Instead of long cascling, which was played on both occasions, I suggest:

1 1 . . . ifSN 1 2.lLlgS 1 2.0-0 0-0 l 3.if4 should be met by l 3 . . . f6!= concrolling the eS-square.

1 2 . . . ig6 1 2 . . . g6 13 .IM!e2 0-0 is also possible, but it feels wrong to weaken the kingside unnecessarily.

l 3.IM!g4 1 3 .IM!h4 j/,xd3 1 4 .cxd3 f6 1 5 .tLlf3 lLlfS 1 6.IM!hSt g6 l 7.IM!g4 IM!e6t+

1 3 . . . h6 1 4.l2Jf3 0-0-0 With a level game.

1 1 ... 0-0-0 In recent years l l . . . g6 has become

fash ionable, but after analysing both moves

I prefer to recommend cascling immediately, which has been Black's main choice over the years. I considered duce options for White: C21) 12.h3, C22) 12.ClJxe6 and C23) 12.0-0.

C21) 12.h3

a b c d e f g h

lbis has hardly ever been played, but preventing ... ig4 is a sensible idea thac should not be ignored. I believe I have found a convincing response though.

12 . .. .if5!N Offering a pawn sacrifice. White's only

critical response is to accept, otherwise h2-h3 will have been a waste of time.

13.1.Wxf/ 1 3 .0-0 ig6= is fine for Black.

13 ... h6 14.'lJf3 14 .. �xfS tLlxfS 1 5 .IM!xd?"t :gxd7 1 6.lLlf3 :ge8t

gives Black more than enough compensation for the sacrificed pawn, in view of the light­square control and active prospects on the e-file.

14 .. J"�hfS

Chaprer 9 - Main Line wirh 8.'\Wh5 1 35

1 5 • . . llixf'5 16.'\Wxd?t <i>xd7ii Black has fine posirional compensarion,

norwirhsranding rhe queen exchange.

C22) 12.lllxe6

El iminaring rhe bishop has been White's mosr popular choice.

12 ... '\Wxe6t 13.ie3 1 3 .'1We2 '1Wxe2t 1 4.'itixe2 lt'ia5 was about

equal in Bromann - Brinck Claussen, Aalborg 2000. A rense batde lies ahead, where Black's lighr-square conrrol and structural superioriry should balance our Whire's bishop pair.

13 . . . g6 14.'\Wf3 ll'lf5 1 5.0-0 We already saw in rhe earlier variarion B l

rhar exchanging on f5 would be a serious posirional error from White. 1he same is rrue here, as rhe inclusion of the moves l!b l and . . . bG makes no real difference.

a b c d e f g h

1 5 ... llid6! This move has only been played in a single

game out of more rhan cwenry in roral, but I believe ir is besr. 'D1e knight is perfecdy placed on d6, where it conrrols borh e4 and c4 and srops any annoying �b5 ideas.

Before proceeding any furrher, I would l ike ro show you rhe problem I found in the main line. 1 5 . . . lt'ixe3 1 6.l!fo l !

l 6.fxe3 f5!= is what Black is hoping for. Objecrively rhe posirion is abour equal, bur I rhink Whire has rhe slighdy rougher task due ro rhe weak pawns on c3 and e3 and ourposr squares on c4 and e4. 'D1e rook move is more of a problem. Whire obtains acrive play along rhe e-file and his bishop could prove troublesome on rhe queenside.

1 36 4 .exd5

l 6 . . . \Wd6 After 1 6 . . . :ghe8 1 7.:gxe3 \Wd7 1 8 .:gbel ;!; White controls the e-file and has somewhat better prospects. 1 6 . . . \Wg4 l 7.\Wxe3t intending ib5 gives White a pleasant game. ! 6 . . . f5 1 7.:gxe3 \Wd6 transposes to the main line below.

l 7.:gxe3 1 7.fxe3 !? is a second option giving White chances for an edge: 1 7 .. . f5 ( 1 7 . . . \Wxa3? 1 8.e4t gives White a strong initiative.) 1 8 .c4 dxc4 1 9 .ixc4 Wb8 20.ib5 lt'ia5 2 1 .c4t White had a promising position in Glek -Djurhuus, Copenhagen 1 996. The bishop is stronger than the knight and there are some attacking prospects on the queenside.

1 7 .. . f5 ll1is is the critical position where I found an important new idea for White:

8 �·�� � ;,� 1 ¥

%¥

?��.,(

6 fj����.r� L ; L ; � • 5 � � · � • n 4 - � � � m·"'�m·'/,;?' . . .

. ?.: · · · · ;�;;;;,r::;;:,;;;,:.'% 3 f�?.?�':%'J�%r::IJ�l�l"r::rw 2 • o � ;rLJ o '.?LJ '///� X'%0.. � . . . . % % . . . . :

� 'R �. �� � �.' ") � � � � ;rs'; a h c d e f g h

1 8 .:gbe l !N A promising pawn sacrifice.

1 8 . . . 1M/xa3 l 9.ib5 lt'ia5 20.c4! White has a serious initiative and is at least slightly better. A possible continuation is:

20 . . . \Wb2 2 1 .d ©b8 22.:ge7 tl'ixc4 23.ixc4 dxc4 24.\Wc6 :gcs 25.\Wxc4;!;

White is a pawn down but totally dominates the position.

After seeing the problem with the main line, let's now return to my recommended solution

of 1 5 . . . tl'id6!. I found a single game in the database, which continued logically for a few more moves.

8 ljj·�� � �� 1 •11• '•f•.t. 6 ·lll�i¥"U .t. B s . U .t. U U 4 - � - � 3 � �o':tul• � 2 •b u � b �

�M� SMm � � � ' /,, , a b c d e f g h

16.:Sfel :Shes 17.id2 tDe4 18.ia6t Wb8 19.Wfd3

Here I propose a slight improvement on the game Osmanodja - Gloor, Ziirich 20 1 0.

19 . .. Wif6N Keeping the d6-square free for the knight.

20.f3 tiJd6= With . . . tl'ia5-c4 coming next, Black is doing

absolutely fine.

C23) 12.0-0

Chapter 9 - Main Line with 8 .1lt/h5 1 37

12 ... ig4 Black's entire set-up is based of this move,

sacrificing the pawn on f7.

13.Wfxf7 l 3.1lt/h4 is playable but not very critical, as

Black has managed to keep his bishop without any concessions. Several moves are possible from here, the simplest being 1 3 . . . E!:dfB= followed by . . .. �JS.

13 ... h6 I considered 1 3 . . . E!:dfS!?N as an interesting

novelty, bur after l 4.1lt/xg7 h6 l 5.l2'ih7! E!:fg8 1 6.\Wf7 we arrive at a critical position where I was unable to find anything suitable for Black.

14.£3

a b c d e f g 11 14 . . . if5!N

111is is a sound and simple way ro play for Black.

After the tempting 1 4 . . . E!:dfS ! ? White can make an interesting queen sacrifice: l 5.fxg4!N (So far White has only tried l 5 .\Wxg7 which gives Black good counrerplay after l 5 .. .J.H5.) 1 5 . . . E!:xf7 1 6.l2Jxf7 E!:e8 1 7.g5� White has excellent compensation for the sacrificed queen. We encountered the same idea in the earlier variation B2 on page 1 28, bur in the

present position the earlier ... b6 makes its presence felt by weakening Black's queenside.

15.ixf5 CDxfS 16.'Wxd?t gxd7 Black's activity and light-square control offer

full compensation for the pawn. A possible follow-up is:

l 7.'Lie6 l 7.l2'ih3 E!:e8� gives Black counterplay along

the e-file.

17 ... gS! -n1is move temporarily traps rhe knight,

which forces some action from White.

18.g4 CDd6 19.f4 ge7 20.fS llJds 21 .CDxdS gxd8iii

White is a pawn up and has a passer on f5 . However, raking into account rhe placement of the pieces, Black has more than enough compensation. l11e superb knight on d6 and the active counterplay on rhe e-file make White's position quite unpleasant.

a b c d e f g h 22.a4

Trying to get the bishop into play.

22 ... ge4 23.h3 'Llc4t Black keeps the bishop boxed in. -n1e only

counrerplay to watch om for is h3-h4 (which

1 38 4.exd5

has to be prepared by a king march to g3) , but then che g4-pawn will become vulnerable. Given time, Black may try to gee his king over to f6 , which would put White in a totally passive position.

Conclusion

After 8 .'.Wh5 �e6 White has good reason to play 9 .�b I before deciding how to develop his king's knight. Indeed, in variations B I and B2 we saw two clear instances where Black was able to make use of the fact that he had not been obliged to weaken his light squares wich . . . b6.

In the main line after 9.�b I b6, White can choose between developing his knight on e2 or f3 . Boch options bring their own challenges, and while I believe in the fundamental soundness of Black's set-up, I also found it necessary to devise new paths in several key positions, and look forward to seeing these ideas tested in practice.

5th Move Options 5.�f3 and 5.dxc5

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.�c3 .ib4 4.e5

4 ... c5 A) 5.�f3 B) 5.dxc5 �e7 6.�f3 �d7!

Bl) 7.�d4!? B2) 7 . .id3

A) noce co 9.ll'ibxd4

1 2 . . . c5!N

A) after 1 2.�b5 B l ) after 8.\Wg4

140 141 142 143

a b c d e r g h

8 . . . 0-0 or 8 . .. \Wb6!?N

1 40 5th Move Options

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.l2Jc3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 Winawer with 7.lLif?, as covered in Chapter 1 8 on page 235.

a b c d e f g h

111e present section of the book is devoted to the various ways in which White may deviate from the main l ine of 5 .a3.

111e two most significant sidelines are 5.\Wg4 and 5.id2. Coverage of these moves begins in Chapters 1 1 and 1 4 respectively, leaving A) 5 .lllf3 and B) 5.dxc5 as two remaining minor l ines to be considered in the present chapter.

A) 5.lDf3 lDe7 6 • .id2

This position has more commonly been reached via the move order 5 .id2 lLie7 6.lLif3, but since I have chosen to meet 5 .id2 with 5 ... l2Jh6 instead of . . . l2Je7 (see Chapters 1 4- 1 6 fo r more details), we should consider the l ine under the present move order.

Other moves are almost certain to transpose to a line considered elsewhere, as any attempt to deviate would give Black easy equality at the bare minimum. 111e two main transpositions are:

6.dxc5 ll'lbc6 is covered under 5 .dxc5 lLie7 6. lLif3 - see the next page

6 . • . cxd4 7.l2Jb5 .ixd2t 8.Wfxd2 0-0 9.lllbxd4 9.0-0-0 l2Jbc6 will transpose to one of the

lines given below after 1 0.lllbxd4 or 1 0.id3?!.

9 .id3 lLibc6 1 0.0-0-0?! (the more sensible 1 O.l2Jbxd4 f6 reaches the note to White's 1 0th move in the main line below) I O . . .f6! 1 l .exf6 1%xf6 gives Black a strong centre and comfortable play. White continued l 2.1%de 1 in Soderborg - Kennedy, Budapest 1 959, and here a powerful reply would have been:

8 �-.i.� · -·· 7 � ·· � � · 6 . .'JI). i fi1 • 5 *illJ·i� � 4 ,,,,,,9 � • • 3 . -�-llJ-2 A f¥� A �m1 f� A f¥� 0 :.-:Oz 0 �t§� z-Qz 0 %0/ I - , /.�, ,ztnf ,/.-�

a b c d e f g h 1 2 . . . e5!N 1 3 .lllxe5 a6 1 4.lLia3 b5+ Black is better due to the awkwardly-placed knight on a3.

6.a3 ixc3t 7.bxc3 reaches the main line 9 . • • l2Jbc6 10.0-0-0

Chapter 1 0 - 5 .tllf3 and 5 .dxc5 141

I also considered: 1 O.il.d3 f6 1 1 .exf<J gxf6!?N An ambitious move playing for the centre. ( 1 1 . . .l'hf6 has been tested and leads ro equality.) 1 2.0-0 e5 1 3 .ctJxc6 bxc6 Black has a strong pawn centre and promising play.

10 . . . f6 l l.exf6 �xf6 Black has a solid position with prospects for

councerplay along the f-file and possibly on the queenside.

1 1 . . .gxfG!?N is worth considering here as well .

12.ibS 1 2.ctJxc6 bxc6 was about equal in Graef

- Tobies, Germany 1 995 . White has some control over the dark squares in the centre but Black has sufficient councerplay along the b-file. His plan for the next few moves will involve . . . ElbS followed by . . . '\Wb6 and possibly . . . c5.

We have been following the game Druckenthaner - Baumegger, Vienna 20 1 0 . Here I suggest:

a b c d e f g h

12 ... Wfb6N 'I11is seems l ike the most logical and active

choice.

13.ia4

1 3.�hel can be met by 1 3 . . . tt:lxd4 14.tt:lxd4 tt:lc6 1 5 .filxcG bxc6 intending . . . E\b8 and . . . c5 with good counterplay on the queenside.

13 ... id7 14.�hel ctJxd4 15.Wfxd4 ha4 16.'\Wxa4 llic6=

'Ihe position remains balanced.

B) 5.dxc5

a b c d e f g h

'Ihis move should not be too dangerous, but is has some interesting points and I would advise the reader to pay attention to what follows.

s ... llie7 6.ctJf.3 6.'Wg4 has only rarely been seen, bur it

immediately transposes to Chapter 1 2.

6 ... ctJd7! -n1e more common 6 . . . tt:lbc6 is fully playable

but I prefer the text move, having used it to inflict two defeats on Robert Zelcic, a specialist in chis line for White, when I qualified for the World Cup in 2006. Black's idea is to capture on c5 with the knight, thus providing the useful option of eliminating the enemy bishop should it go to d3.

From chis position Bl) 7.Wf d4!? is an interesting sideline, bur by far the most common continuation is B2) 7.id3.

142 5th Move Options

Bl) 7.�d4!?

White's idea is to transfer the queen to g4 for attacking purposes, while also disrupting Black's plan of taking on c5 with the knight.

7 . . . hc5 8.�g4 0-0 This is a solid choice and it works fine, but if

Black is looking to complicate the game he can consider the following ambitious try.

8 . . . 1.Wb6!?N Targeting the f2-pawn.

9.tt'la4?! By attempting to keep the game under control, White lands himself in a worse endgame. 9.�d3?! �xf2t I O.c;t>e2 tt'lc5 seems to work out fine for Black, for instance 1 1 J''ffl tt'lxd3

1 2.cxd3 �c5 and the bishop makes a clean getaway. 9 .1.Wxg7 is critical. 9 . . . :gg8 1 0.1.Wxh7 �xf2!" J I .c;t>d 1 tt'lf8 1 2.1.Wh5 �d7� Black has compensation for the sacrificed pawn due to his speedy development and White's vulnerable king.

9 ... 1.Wb4t 1 0.1.Wxb4 �xb4t l 1 .�d2 1 l .c3 �aS+ also favours Black. White will have difficulties defending e5 and the knight on a4 is offode.

l l . . .�xd2t 1 2. c;t>xd2 a6+ lhe position favours Black, who has the

better pawn structure and intends ... tt'lc6 with pressure against eS. White's knight on f3 will be stuck defending for quite some time, while Black can develop and later think about breaking with ... f6.

a b c d e f g h

9.i,d3 f5 I t is essential to prevent �xh7"1 when Black

is likely to get mated.

10.1.WhSN White needs to find something better than

I 0 .1.Wg3?! tt'lg6 1 1 .0-0 �e7 1 2.:ge 1 tt'lc5+ when everything is in order for Black, T. Horvath -Jurek, Pontresina 2000.

The text move is better and carries the threat of tt'lg5.

Chapter 1 0 - 5 .ctJf3 and 5 .dxc5 1 43

1 1 .0-0 a6= Followed by . . . l!Ee8 to ward off Whire's

kingside iniriarive.

B2) 7.id3

8 .im.t.�•m �� w� ��/,, , . ,%r,,/s��m-�/ - .Y, 7 r·�- . m�-: ' i,f� ' 6 ifii!l ·0�#!4�W/� 5 .////// �81 .t. �81 � 4 Y,-,, , , %-/. /.- 0,�

3 .!£3�,��� � � » . . . . . : m � 2 A W� A � ·wm A .Wru§ 0 r,Q% 0 � r,d 0 r,L)� ��{ . %� m/'c:·;;,{ · . %� '- - - . % �- - � �---�{if�� m�

a b c d e f g h

7 ... lllxc5 This is more precise and flexible rhan

7 . . . vtf c7, since after 8.0-0 Black cannot caprure on e5 anyway. 111e second player srill has a reasonable position after 8 ... �xc3 9.bxc3 lllxc5, as occurred in borh my games against Zelcic. Neverrheless, if Black intends to go for rhis srrucrure, rhere is no need to pur rhe queen on c7 so early.

8.0-0 ixc3 Black rakes rhe opporrunicy to damage his

opponenr's queenside. Now he can count on a better pawn structure and pressure along rhe c-file, but we must not forget abour White's bishops.

8 . . . !d7 is a decent alternative which leads to approximarely equal chances.

9.bxc3 id7 This looks to me like the most logical

continuation. According to the database this position has only seen daylight in a single game, which we will now follow.

1 1 ...b6 12.1.Wb4 White prepares to swing his queen over to

the kingside.

12 . .. lllg6 1 2 . . . 0-0?? loses to l 3.�xh7t +-.

12 . . . l!Ec?!?N deserves atremion, remammg flexible and forcing White to think about rhe c-file.

144 5th Move Options

8 � i.�·� �� � ".. , , .% � 0. , , .Y:

7 � R.tRi m i 6 �JI RiR�R 5 - �,,� 4 �\Gf � "��II �1 "� � � � 3 � Bil��-2 � R � R B � �

�� R ·M= a b c d e f g h

13.a4 0-0 1 3 . . . a5N 14.1Mfg4 1Mfc7= appears slightly

more accurate, although the rext move does not harm Black's chances too much.

14.a5 Wffc7 15.axb6 axb6 I6.hg6 fxg6

1 7.�a3N gives White min imal pressure, although after 1 7 . . . �a8 1 8 .�fa l �xa3 1 9.�xa3 hG Black has a solid position and the draw is not far off.

17 ... dxc4 18.Wffxc4 �c6 1/2-1/2

This was the rather dull end to the game Zelcic - Drasko, Bosnjaci 2005. I have already noted a couple of earlier improvements for both sides, and will briefly mention that in the final position Black's strong bishop makes his position slightly the more pleasant.

Conclusion

5.lt:Jf3 usually transposes to a harmless sideline of the 5 .�d2 variacion. Chances are balanced and chere is not much for Black to fear.

5 .dxc5 is rare bur it is nor a bad move by any means. After the standard moves 5 . . . lt:Je7 6 .lt:Jf3, the reply 6 . . . lt:Jd7! is a clever idea which gives Black some useful extra opcions compared wich the more common knighc development to cG. We analysed cwo main branches for Whice, bur Black can secure equal chances againsr both of chem wichouc much difficulty.

5.ig4 a b c d c f g h

Introduction

Variation Index 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLJc3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5.1Wg4

A) 6.a3? YN a5! Al) 7 . .id2 A2) 7.axb4 A3) 7.lDe2

B) 6.1Wxg7 �g8 Bl) 7.¥Mxh7? B2) 7.1Wh6

C) 6.lLJf3 cxd4 7.lLJxd4 lLJg6 Cl) 8.lLJf3?! C2) 8 . .ib5t C3) 8 . .id2 C4) 8 . .id3

A2) afrer 1 1 . lllxa8

1 1 . . .Wb l !N

5 . • . lLJe7

C2) afrcr I I .lllf3?!

a b c d c f g h l l . . . il.xc3!N

C4) norc ro I J .gc3

146 146 147 148 149 150 151 152 152 152 153 154

1 46 5 .\Wg4

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 s.'Wg4

a b c d e f g h White goes after the g7-pawn. Compared

with Chapter 2, his e-pawn is safe and the black knight does not have the f6-square available. On the negative side for White, his d4-pawn is under fire and the c3-knight remains pinned.

5 . . . l2Je7 Black begins by safeguarding his rook. In

this position the most important move by far is G.dxcS, and we will analyse it separately in Chapters 1 2 and 1 3 . In the present chapter we will deal with the rare alternatives A) 6.a3?, B) 6.'Wxg7 and C) 6.lllf3.

A) 6.a3?

Attempting to transpose to the main lines, but Black can exploit the errant move order.

6 ... 'WaS! This leads to a forced advantage for Black

against each of the three replies: Al) 7.id2, A2) 7.axb4 and A3) 7.l2Je2.

Al) 7.id2 cxd4

8.lbb ! also fails to solve White's problems: 8 . . . �xd2t 9 .lbxd2 0-0 I O.�d3 lbbc6 ! l .lbgf3 lbg6+ Sipila - S. Ivanov, Stockholm 20 1 1 .

8 ... l2Jbc6 9.'Wg4 9 .�bS?! 0-0 1 O.�xc6 lbxc6 hardly helps

White.

9 .. . d4

Chapter 1 1 - I ntroduction 147

10 ... Wfxal t 1 1 .lLidl lLif'5 12.lLif3 Wfa4 White does not have enough for the exchange,

Oparaugo - Mokosch, Wuememberg 1 994.

A2) 7.axb4 Wfxal

a b c d e f g h

White's exchange sacrifice is unsound, although it is interesting to see that in the main l ine Black returns the material wich interesc in order to develop an atcack againsc che enemy king.

8.i>dl cxd4 9.lLib5 0-0! Black offers che rook on a8 in order to hum

for a b igger prize.

10;llJc7 Afcer 1 O.lllf3 lllbc6 l l .�d3 lllg6+ White's

compensacion was insufficienc in Jansa -Korchnoi, Luhacovice 1 969.

10 ... lLibc6 1 1 .lLixaB ll1is position occurred in Nilsson - Scholler

Larsen, Copenhagen 1 990. Ac chis poinc Black captured on b4, which was enough to claim some advantage and an evenmal victory. However, chere was a considerably scronger move available.

s ll:JB.t.m ��·� 7 - · � -· •r : ;•J,�;· 4 ���- ,.1� 3 •:)';·:�©: 2 -fl�!Jl/JN.

a b c d e f g h

1 1 ...Wfbl !N The b4-pawn will not run away, and by

nudging che queen in this way, Black ensures char a subsequent . . . lllxb4 will deliver a lethal threat to the c2-pawn, thereby preventing the reply Wf xd4. Black is a piece down for the time being, bur he is close to winning che game due to White's lack of development and che concrete chreacs against his king.

12.id3 Defending che c2-pawn in advance, but che

inclusion of the lase two moves clearly favours Black.

l 2.lllf3 lllxb4 is hopeless for White, for instance: 1 3 .llle l ( 1 3 .lllxd4 lllec6-+) 1 3 . . . �d7 1 4.\Wxd4 llla2 1 5 .1Wd2 1''1xa8-+

l2 ... ctJxb4 13.°Wxd4 ctJec6 14.Wfe3

a b c d e f g h

1 48 5 .Wfg4

14 ... id? White has managed co defend himself

for the momenc, so it is time co bring in reinforcements.

15.CLJc? gc8 16.lt'lb5 lllxd3 17.cxd3 CLJb4 18.lt'lc3

1 8 .CDa3 ia4t-+

a b c d e f g h

18 .. . gxc3! A simple combination co end che game.

19.hxc3 Wfc2t 20.<j;lel CLJxd3t-+

A3) 7.Clle2

precise play, bur one could argue chat ic would be che best chance co complicate che game over che board. Other moves are easy for Black to deal wich :

8.W°xd4 CDbc6 9.W°g4 ixc3t I O.bxc3 0-0+ gives Black an excellent position, as mencioned by Williams.

8 .Ei:bl may be best, bur after 8 . . . ixc3t 9 .bxc3 0-0+ (9 . . . CDf5N+ is also good) Black has a considerably improved version of che Winawer main line, Converser - Robledo, Buenos Aires 1 994.

8 ... Wfxal 9.lt'lb5 0-0 10.lt'lc7 lt'la6 1 0 . . . CDbc6 could lead co che same thing.

1 1 .CLJxaS Here Black has several ways to obtain an

advantage, but in my opinion there is one clear favourite.

8 �m.i.m �:1•m 7 �.I i � � i�.l i 6 �.�.,. 'a s m R i D m 4 r� m %m�m � ·:Jd��

., .. ,{· · · · ';%·%�YhY,{· · · · '�' · · ·" � � ��� : a b c d e f g h

l l ...lt'lxb4! It makes sense co harass the king immediately

before White can consolidate. Both Williams and Warson give l I . . . id7

which is good enough for an advantage, but not necessarily winning. After l 2.W°xd4 Ei:xa8 l 3.b3 W°xd4 14 .CDxd4 CDxb4 Black is obviously better thanks ro his extra pawn, bur White's bishop pair gives him chances to resist.

Chapter 1 1 - I nrroduction 149

12.Wd2N

12. ©d 1 ? l2:Jec6 gave Black a crushing initiative in Marrin Gonzalez - Narciso Dublan, Spain 1 999.

1 2.\Wg5N lllec6 13 .\Wd2 docs not help White ei ther, in view of:

1 3 . . . d3! 1 4 .cxd3 ( 1 4 .lll f4 l2:lxc2t 1 5 .Wd l id? 1 6.!xd3 lll2b4 1 7.l2:lc7 f1c8 1 8 .l2:lb5 lllxd3 19 .lllxd3 \Wa4t-+) 1 4 . . . !d? 1 5 .lllc? f1c8 16.l2:Jb5 lllxe5-+

12 . . • W'a4 13.'llxd4 Afrer 1 3 .b3 \Wa2 1 4 .l2:lxd4 .\ild7 1 5 .id3

l2:lxd3 1 6. Wxd3 f1xa8-+ Black is a pawn up while keeping a serious arrack against White's king.

13 . . • lllxc2 14.b3 14 .\Wd 1 \Wxd4t 1 5 . 'it>xc2 \Wxe5 is hopeless

for White; rhe knight on a8 is trapped, so he will soon be at least two pawns down wirh an exposed king.

14 ... W'xd4t 1 5.W'xd4 'llxd4 16.ia3 id7 17.i:xe?

8 l:tj� m �:i•m 7 tl/�/•.t•' fl '

: �·d�� 4 ·.�'Mf '�� 3 •JA,�•�·� 2 m ·�· '1f!1- b 1f!1-m ��m�, . . �.�-�

a b c d e f g h

17 .. JkS! Even stronger rhan . . . f1xa8. Black now

comrols rhe c-file and thus threatens ro grab the b3-pawn with check. The knight on a8 is not going anywhere.

18.id3 1 8 .b4 lllb3t 1 9 .@e3 ( 1 9 .©d3 f1c l !-+)

l 9 . . . f1xa8 20.!d3 f1c8-+

18 ... 'llxb3t 19.We3 �xa8-+ Black is three pawns up and has a clearly

won endgame.

B) 6.W'xg7 �g8

150 5 .Wg4

Bl) 7JWxh7?

White cannot afford the luxury of taking this pawn.

7 ... cxd4 8.a3 Wa5! 1his is a typical reaction to a2-a3 in positions

where White's queen has already wandered off to the kingside.

9 ... Wxal 10.'llce2 'llbc6 l l .ctJf3 id7 White lacks sufficient compensation for the

sacrificed exchange, although there is still a fight going.

12.h4 1 2.b5 is well met by 1 2 . . . d3!N ( 1 2 . . . Wa5t

has been played a few times and should also be good for Black, but the text move is simpler) 1 3 .'®xd3 ct:Jb4 1 4.'®d l .ixb5 with a clear advantage to Black.

1 2. ciid 1 N might well be White's best try, but Black can respond in familiar fashion: 12 .. . d3! This thematic move forces White into passivity while Black gains time. 1 3.'®xd3 ctJxb4+ White has not managed to create any

counterplay, so Black's material advantage gives him the upper hand.

Pushing the h-pawn is a typical plan for White, but it doesn't seem to work in view of the following strong reaction.

13.�d2 1 3.b5 falls victim to a familiar device: l 3 . . . d3!

1 4.bxc6 dxe2 1 5 .cxd7t <iixd7 16 .ciid2 exfl ='® 1 7.!:i:xfl !l:xg2-+

13 ... 'llxb4 14.'llfxd4 1 4.ctJexd4 ctJa2 1 5 .ctJb3 Wbl 1 6.id3 ctJxc l

1 7.!:i:xc l '®xb2 1 8 .lllg5

Chapter 1 1 - Introduction 1 5 1

l 8 . . . !'!xg5! After Black returns the exchange White has a hopeless position. l 9 .hxg5 �a4! (even better than l 9 . . . Wxe5+) 20.Wh3 a6!-+ Renewing the threat of . . . �xb3.

1 5 . . . !'!g4! 16.ibSt 1 6.Clidb5 d4 1 7.ClidGt Wd8-+

16 ... ixbS 17.ctJdxbS Wd7+ White is in trouble.

Bl) 7.Wh6

a b c d e f g h

It is more important for the queen to protect

the c l -bishop than to grab the h7-pawn. Even here though, Black enjoys excellent prospects.

7 ... cxd4 8.a3 ixc3t Now 8 . . . Wa5?! is a different story as after

9.axb4 Wxa l I O .Clib5! White gees active counterplay.

9.bxc3 Wc7 As Warson points om, Black has reached

a favourable version of the Poisoned Pawn Winawer, where White has neglected to cake the pawn on h7.

10.ctJe2 I 0. Wd 1 Clid7+ also favoured Black in Cvicela

- Huba, Topolcianky 1 993.

10 . . . dxc3 l l .f4 id7 12.�bl 1 2.Wxh7 Clibc6 leaves Black a full tempo up

compared to the Poisoned Pawn Winawer. A detailed analysis would hardly be appropriate here; suffice it to say that this is clearly a significant difference and I believe chat Black has the better prospects.

a b c d e f g h

12 •.. tlibc6 13.tlig3 0-0-0 14.id3 ttJd4:j: Black has an active game and was somewhat

better in Sigurjonsson - Uhlmann, Hastings 1 976.

1 52 5 .�g4

C) 6.Cllf3

6 ... cxd4 ll1is is my preference, although 6 . . . tt:JbcG is a

worthy alternative.

7.lllxd4 Cllg6 Black covers the threat against g7 and sets

up a future attack on e5. We will consider four responses: Cl) 8.lllf3?!, C2) 8.ibSt, C3) 8.id2 and C4) 8.id3.

Cl) 8.lllf3?!

a b c d e f g h

111is is too passive and allows Black ro obtain the better prospects.

8 ... lllc6 8 . . Jhc31" 9 .bxc3 '!He? also looks good,

although White might get some counrerplay on the dark squares.

9.id2 9Jl.b5 l!Ha5+ 9.i/,d3 d4 1 0.�e4 ( I O.a3 '!Ha5 l l .axb4 '!Hxa l

1 2.ctJe2 ctJxb4+) 1 0 . . . �d? I l .ctJxd4 tt:Jcxe5 l 2.'!He2 '!Hes+

9 ... d4 10.Clle4 ixd2t I O . . . hS!?N with the idea of . . . 1!Hd5 may well

be even stronger.

l 1 .Cllexd2 �aS:t: Kuzmin - Dolmatov, Minsk 1 982.

C2) 8.ibSt

With this move White strives for quick development, bur from a strategic point of view Black will be happy to exchange the light­squared bishops.

8 ... id7 9.0-0 0-0 lO.ixd7 1 O.lLJxeG?? �xc3 was embarrassing for

White, who resigned immediately in Tobor -Van Buskirk, corr. 1 988.

Chapter 1 1 - Inc roduccion 1 53

I O .�g5? ll:Jxe5 l l .Wfh5 f6+ gave White no compensation for the pawn in Angskog -Nilsson, Linkoping 1 996.

Finally, 1 O.�d3 ll:Jxe5 1 1 .�xh?i" 'it>xh7 l 2.Wh5t Wg8 l 3.Wxe5 lllc6+ gave Black a positional plus in Murey - Sigurjonsson, Brighton 1 982.

10 ... 1Mfxd7 l 1 .Cllf3?! l l .f4N seems l ike the lesser evil, although

l l . . . �xc3 l 2.bxc3 ll:Jc6 still favours Black.

a b c d e f g h

1 1 ... hd!N 'lhis improvement has already been pointed

out by Watson .

l I . . . ll:Jc6 favoured Black in Fernandez Garcia - Matamoros Franco, Seville 1 992, but we can and should be more ambitious.

12.bxc3 E:c8 13.h4 White's only chance is co aim for kingside

councerplay, but it is coo slow.

13 ... E:xd 14.hS E:c4+ Followed by . . . ll:Je7. Black is in time co

parry the threats, and his extra pawn should eventually decide che contest.

C3) 8.�d2

White avoids any damage co his queenside structure and prepares long cascling.

8 . . . 0-0 9.f4 9.lllf3 can hardly threaten Black: 9 . . . lllc6

1 0 .0-0-0 f5 111is move forces a pawn exchange which makes Black's l ife comfortable and straightforward. (However, it is quite possible chat Watson's suggestions of 10 . . . Wc7!? and 1 O . . . �.c5!? are objectively stronger, so we are rather spoiled for choice.) l l .exf6 Wxf6 1 2.Wb l e5 1 3 .Wg3 ll:Jf4 1 4 .a3

1 54 5.'Wg4

8 .i.�.t� �!%•� ?;-., . , . , . . . . . /, /

. . . . • Y. � 7 - ·- - · -· 6 n n • m'i)� s n - · � n �-� ,, ,,,�

%-� m : .�r£.efil1� �%·if·· · · · :�.;'� �� �%-� 2 111, •• ,.� a b c d e f g h

9 ... '1Nb6 Once again there is a pleasant choice, as

9 , . .tt'ic6 1 0.tt'ixc6 bxc6 was also slighcly better for Black in Short - Farago, Banja Luka I 985 .

IO.c!tJb3 ltJc6 1 1 .0-0-0?! A risky choice since Black gets ro launch his

arrack first.

l l .�d3N seems preferable, although after l l . . .a5 I 2.a4 tt'id4 I 3. tt'ixd4 '1Nxd4 Black has somewhat better prospects.

l l .. .a5 12.a3? l 2.a4 was necessary, although after I 2 . . . tt'id4

1 3.tt'ixd4 'Wxd4 White has a rough time as he faces the dual clueats of . . . tt'ixe5 and ... �xc3 followed by . . . 'Wxa4.

a b c d e f g h

12 ... a4! 13 . .!tJaI .ic5N+ I 3 . . . �xc3 l 4.�xc3+ was less convincing

in V. Georgiev - Dimitrov, Bulgaria 1 995 , although Black was also somewhat better here.

After the text move White's knight is destined ro remain on a l for a long time, so Black can enjoy the game practically playing a piece up. A logical plan from this position would be . . . tt'ige7 followed by . . . f5 or . . . f6 to reduce White's pressure on the kingside.

C4) 8 . .id3

a b c d e f g h

This has been White's most common choice.

s ... o-o 9.Lg6 Another game continued: 9 .tt'if3 tt'ic6

1 0.0-0 �xc3 I l .bxc3 tt'icxe5 1 2.tt'ixe5 tt'ixe5 I 3.�xh7t 'iixh7 I 4.'\Wh5t ©g8 I 5 .'Wxe5 f6 I 6. Vff g3 Dragojlovic - Naumkin, Padova 2006.

a b c d e f g h

Chapter 1 1 - I ntroduction 1 5 5

At chis point 1 6 . . . e5N+ looks like a good improvement, when Black has a strong centre and the better pawn structure. Cihe game went 1 6 . . . !d??! 1 7.E:b 1 when White obtained unnecessary counterplay.)

9 . . . fxg6! "This is the more positionally desirable

capture, and Black can gee away with it because the e6-pawn is poisoned.

10.0-0 Obviously 1 O.Clixe6?? is no good due to

10 . . . We7 winning a piece. l O.!d2 should be met by 1 0 . . . !e7, avoiding

danger along the fourth rank and preparing to develop the knight. After 1 1 .0-0 'llc6 1 2.'llf3 Wb6+ Black had an active game and a slight advantage in Murey - Kinsman, Paris 1 996.

10 ... i.e? Black should resist the temptation to

exchange on c3. Here is a relevant example: 1 0 . . . !xc3?! This exchange gives Black a better pawn structure, but gives up the bishop pair and allows White's bishop to become active. l l .bxc3 Wa5 1 2.a4 !d7?! (Black should setcle for 1 2 . . . 'llc6N 13 .'llxc6 bxc6 14 .Wb4 Wxb4 l 5 .cxb4 with a drawish endgame.) l 3.!a3 E:f7 1 4.'llb5 !xb5 1 5 .axb5 ms 1 6.c4 Wa4 This was Fressinet - David, Paris 2005, and here 17.E:fd l !N 'lld7 1 8 .Wd4± would have kept a clear advantage for White.

a b c d e f g h

1 1 .i.e3 This seems best, and has been used three

times by G M Jacob Murey. White has tried a few different set-ups, but Black has at least equal chances in all cases. Here are a couple of relevant examples showing how the game may develop.

l l .'llce2 'llc6 1 2. f4 Wb6 1 3.c3 was played in S. Lalic - Matamoros Franco, Ceuta 1 993. Here I found a nice idea:

a b c d e f g h 1 3 . . . g5!+ With a slight edge to Black.

In the following game White left his f-pawn at home and attempted to establish a dark-square blockade using his pieces: I l .'llf3 'llc6 1 2.E:e l !d7 1 3 .'lle2 Wb6

"This moves creates the threat of . . . 'llxe5 as well as keeping an eye on the b2-pawn.

14 .ie3?!

a b c d e g h

1 56 5 .iWg4

A praccical accempc to complicate che game, buc it gives Black an advantage. l 4.tt:Jf4N is beccer although Black maintains an initiative after l 4 . . . ic5 . ( l 4 . . . 1:'\f5 should be about equal.)

1 4 . . . Wxb2 1 5 .1:'\ab l Hebden - Macamoros Franco, London 1 987. Here instead of l 5 . . . Wxc2 Black can improve with :

PS' %W'. /:;/);:'/ °'.�; r.k.,� 8 .§. � ?��� ;;� & �/: A '/{fg:j °"'{&:/ & 7 r� - �.Ji.w r� -6 -�· · · · ·� 5 � IJ;; i � � 4 ,/;%�1r��· �i� w� " · %w;;"'.i':i:",/'/,•."" %:::&::·(,""� 3 � � �!i:J�

2 t!J � t!J �Ii:Jr� t!J �� �j,i\i{�!:'.��ii\�;/· · · · "�,./ . . . . / � g �w,a p�; 8'Et0 a h e d e f g h

l 5 . . . iWxa2!N l 6.1:'\xb7 �c8 1 7.:gbb 1 l 7.1:'\c7? is mec by 1 7 . . . iWaG+ intending . . . �d8. l 7.1:'\b3 lt:Ja5+ also favours Black.

l 7 . . . a5+ White has some activity, buc Black is a solid

pawn up and can use the c4-square to gee the queen out of danger.

White aims for control over che dark squares. His dream would of course be to exchange the dark-squared bishops and establish a dominant knight on c5 , bur with accurate play Black can prevent ic.

1 3 .b4?! l11is move occurred in Murey - Marciniak, Condom 2004. White eventually prevailed, but Murey's ' improvement' over two of his previous games allows Black to obtain a forced advancage with:

1 3 ... 1:'\f5 !N

14.\Wd4 l 4.lt:Je2 8:xe5 l 5.lLig3 might win an exchange for White, but Black stands better nevertheless. l11e most straightforward and probably best continuation is l 5 . . . 1:'\xe3! 1 6.fxe3 e5 1 7.iWf3 .�a6 1 8.iWf7t 'it>h8 1 9.1:'\f2 �xb4+ when Black has two pawns for the exchange plus a strong pair of bishops. His next move is l ikely to be . . . \We8, as a queen exchange would accentuate the power of the bishops.

14 . . . a5 I 5 .a3 l 5 .g4 8:f3+

l 5 .. . axb4 l 6.axb4 1:'\b8 1 7.E\fb 1 I 7.lt:Ja2?! is too passive and after l 7 . . . \Wc7 l 8 .f4 ia6+ followed by . . . ic4 Black holds a strong initiative.

l 7 . . . 1:'\xb4! l 8 .1:'\xb4 c5 Black's small combination has netted a pawn

and the better chances, although White has

Chapter 1 1 - Introduction 1 57

a degree of compensation and some drawing chances.

13 •. J'gbs As recommended by both Williams and

Watson. I also found 1 3 . . . Ei:f5!?N to be playable, bur would not go so far as to call ir an improvement over the text move.

14.a3 Afrer l 4.�c5 �xc5 l 5 .llixc5 Ei:xb2+ rhe

knight has reached c5, bur the b2-pawn was a high price to pay.

14 ... '.WaS Black continues to inhibit the plan of b2-b4.

1 5.h3 I 5 .'®d4 Ei:b5 is fine for Black.

The text move has already been recommended by Warson, who thinks Black is better. I decided to examine a l ikely follow-up.

16.�gS '!he obvious try, forcing an exchange of the

dark-squared bishops.

16 ... LgS 17.'.WxgS

17 ... d4! An important move, nor only preventing

White from establishing a grip on rhe dark squares, bur also opening a path for Black's bishop. 'Ihere might follow:

18.'.Wg4 gd5 19.'llb2 '.Wc3 20.'lld3 cS 21 .gacl aS

Wirh some initiative for Black.

Conclusion

There is nor much that should concern us in this chapter. Both 6.a3? and 6.'®xg7 lead to Black's advantage by force, and most of the variations after 6.liJf3 are pretty innocuous as well. The only challenging l ine is variation C4 where Black must be careful not to allow his opponent to dominate the dark squares. With precise play, however, Black's chances are at least equal here as well.

s.VNg4 a b c d c f g h

6.dxc5 - without 8.0-0-0 and 8. CLJf3

Variation Index 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.�c3 .ih4 4.e5 c5 5.'9g4 �e7 6.dxc5

6 ... �bc6 A) 7.'9xg7? B) 7.a3 C) 7 . .ih5 D) 7.�f3 E) 7 . .id2 0-0

El) 8.f4? E2) 8 . .id3!? f5! 9.exf6 gxf6

E21) 10.'9h4 E22) 10.0-0-0

C) after 9.�xc6 B 1 ) after J4.cxd3

9 . . . \Wa5!N

E22) after l 2.li:\f3

1 2 . . . il.xc5N

160 162 162 163 165 165 166 168 170

1 60 5.Wg4

I .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.ctJc3 ih4 4.eS cS s.Wg4 CLJe7 6.dxcS

a b c d e f g h This is the main l ine and the most direct

way of dealing with the pressure against the d4-pawn. By the way, please do not forget that White's last move also unveiled an attack against the bishop on b4.

6 ... ctJbc6 I favour this developing move. From here we

will deal with five main options: A) 7.Wxg7?, B) 7.a3, C) 7.ihS, D) 7.ctJB and E) 7.id2.

A) 7.Wxg7?

8 �-j_·�-�· 1 ¥1• • � · ·if 6 • · · � • s B � � • 4 � - - · 3 - - /,.�.%0 2 , � � ·l.ZJ�� � � , , "'. � % 7-f "'"' �/ � I � � �;��§

a h c d e f g h

1 2 . . . d3! By cutting off the queen Black obtains a serious initiative. 1 3.cxd3 'Wb I+ Schutz -Clementsson, Sweden 1 994.

a b c d e f g h I o ... dxc3 1 I .ie3D

This move is ill-advised, as Black is well placed ll1e only move that keeps White in the to exploit the pin on the c3-knight. game.

7 ... �gs s.Wxh7 8 .'Wh6 d4 9.a3 �g6 1 0.'Wxh7?! 'WaS only

led to worse problems for White in Hass -Klawitter, email 2006.

s ... d4 9.a3 Was 10.�hl 1 O.axb4? gives Black a big advantage after:

1 0 . . . Wxa l 1 l .ctJce2 l2ixb4 1 2.f2if3

1 I ...id7! ll1c most convincing continuation, as

pointed out by Watson.

12.ctJe2N The only game I have found in the database

continued 1 2.'We4?? when 1 2 . . . llldS! is already decisive. The remaining moves were as follows: 1 3 .l2ie2 0-0-0 14 .axb4 'Wa2 1 5 .!l:dl

Chapter 1 2 - 6.dxc5 - without 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .lllf3 1 6 1

8 -·�� •. 19 7 (11.B..t�I. · 6 . • 'il.l.B. • s � Wfj'i]Wfj • 4 �� , ;•ii·�·

@· Wfff �� w� %% 3 � r� � �

2 irt!f �%� ttS�· rlrfl % . • . • %. � z.. . . % , • . • . . / , �.� �MmitJJ��M � � , . ., n a b c d e f g h

1 5 . . . lllcxb4 ( 1 5 . . . cxb2N-+ is more precise but the game continuation is more rhan good enough.) 1 6.lllc l 1Wxb2 l 7.id3 ic6 1 8.id4 lllxc2t 0- 1 Ivekovic - Pourramezanali , Yung Tau 2008.

I t is worth pointing out chat l 2.lll f3?N does not save the day either: 1 2 . . . 0-0-0 1 3 .id3 ixc5 14 .b4 ixb4 1 5 .axb4 lllxb4+ Black has a serious advantage as White has no good place to hide his king. "ll1e following lines are given by Watson :

a D•%� �.!. � %% ?:1 . . . . Y. � n 7 �I. � .triY I. �ilf % % �w£ · � 6 .. . , . .. s ·� �, � .. 4 '· J��z }� .�-3 ., �,��-�

2 ��x���?' .. '.'i�!� - �

. } 3.i!if£ " 1 .M. � .M a b c d e f g h

! 6.lt:Jd4 ( 1 6.0-0 lllxd3 1 7.1Wxd3 ( 1 7.cxd3 ic6 1 8 .1Wh3 1Wd5-+] 1 7 . . . ic6 1 8.1Wc4 1Wc7 1 9 .llle l Wfxe5 Black is close to winning.) I 6 . . . lllxd3t 1 7.1Wxd3 Elxg2 1 8.1We4 \Wd5 1 9 .1Wxd5 lt:lxd5 20.h4 lt:lxe3 2 1 .fxe3 ia4 22.h5 Elh8 White faces a difficult endgame.

13.axb4 lllxb4 14.°IWhSt llJgS 1 5.lllxc3 lllxc2t 16.@d2

1 6. iie2 '1Wb4-+

17 . . . 0-0-0+ White faces a huge attack.

1 62 5 .\Wg4

B) 7.a3 hc3t 8.bxc3

a b c d e f g h

This is rather an unusual choice from White, whose pawn structure is now a mess although he does at least have the bishop pair.

8 ... 0-0 9.lllf3 9 .f4? has been played in a few games, but

this non-developing move loses valuable time. After 9 ... \Wa5 I O . .id2 \Wxc5+ Black was better in Wcindl - Valenti, Reggio Emilia 1 988.

9 ... lllg6 10 . .id3 1 0.\Wh5N remains untried, but White will

not be able co keep the c5-pawn in any case. After I O . . . �c7 I I ..id3 ttJcxc5 l 2.ttJxc5 \Wxc5i" l 3.\Wxc5 ttJxe5= Black should at least be able co achieve a drawish opposite-coloured bishop ending if he wishes it.

10 .•. lllcxeS 1 1 .lllxeS lllxeS 12 . .ixh?t ©xh7 13.WfhSt ©g8 14.WfxeS f6 1 S.Wfg3 eSiii

Bashchak - Taran, I l lichcvsk 2006. Black is a pawn down, but this is fully compensated by his strong centre and White's weakened quccnsidc. 1hc chances arc about equal, but I would evaluate Black's position as slightly more pleasant co play.

C) 7 . .ibS

a b c d e f g h

This move docs not look at all convincing, despite having a positive score in the database.

7 ... .ixc3t!? 1his unusual move works well, although

7 . . . \Wa5 and 7 ... 0-0 arc also fully adequate for equality.

8.bxc3 0-0 9.hc6 1his exchange is pretty much forced since

otherwise White cannot protect both the c5-pawn and the threat ... \Wa5 hitting b5 and c3. At this point I found a striking improvement on Black's play in Renner - Strangmucllcr, Bavaria 20 1 0.

Chapter 1 2 - 6.dxc5 - without 8.0-0-0 and 8 .lt'lf3 1 63

a b c d e f g h

9 ... Wfa5!N A strong intermediate move, putting

immediate pressure on White's weaknesses.

10.Wfb4 Entering a sligluly inferior ending seems co

be White's best.

1 0.lt'le2 should be met by 1 0 . . . bxc6, opening a path for the bishop while keeping the knight near the kingside to deal with ih6 ideas. 1 1 .0-0 ( l l .W'b4 W'c7+) l l . . .ia6+ Black has a fine game, with a better pawn structure and good control over rhe light squares. 'foere is no hurry to win back the pawn, and the next priority should be co seize the open b-file.

10 ... ctJxc6! 1 0 . . . W'xb4 l l .cxb4 lt'lxc6 wins back rhe

pawn with an equal position, but I prefer not co straighten out White's pawns.

1 I .Wfxa5 ctJxa5iii Black is a pawn down but White's tripled

c-pawns do not count for much, and the second player has chances to play for more than a draw. "lbe next few moves arc likely to be . . . id7, . . . �fc8 and later . . . b6 to open up rhe queenside.

D) 7.lt°Jf3

a b c d e f g h

7 . .. d4 'll1is move looks promising for Black, but

the situation is slighrly more complicated that it may first appear. Play will now follow a forced path for several moves.

s.ib5 8.a3? W'a5 is good for Black.

8 . . . Wfa5 9.hc6t bxc6 10.Wfxd4 ltJf5 Black seems to have rhe makings of a strong

initiative for minimal material i nvestment, but White is nor wirhour chances.

164 5 .Wfg4

A few other moves have been tried, but a brief analysis shows them to be clearly inferior. We will concentrate on the text move, which is the only way for White to make sense of his opening play.

l l . .. ia6 12.Wfb3 Wfb5 13.�dl Wfxc5 14.id2

1 4.tlle4? is countered by 1 4 . . . tlld4 threatening . . . ie2 mate.

After the text move Black seems to have good chances in view of the placement of White's king. Nevertheless, the complexity of the position makes it difficult to make a clear judgement.

8 i.m �·n �� �-�� � �r% : '.f.T.T�' 5 n (" ": �r�lll-4 ��J3'a�. 3 •V� �m�m � ��-�,, .. , ;�-��-��-� 2 � r� � � r� � r� 1 ��% . . . . %�-��t . . %Wi

.. . . . % � � m . a b c d e f g h

14 ... tlld4!?N "This has been recommended by Watson and

seems like a decent move, although it is hard to say if it is best. I would advise the reader to check the following alternatives and then choose whichever of the three options he likes the most.

14 . . . ic4 occurred 1 11 Banas - Prandstetter, Marianske Lazne 1 978, when instead of 1 5 .i'Na4?, White should have played 1 5 .tlle4!N ixb3 1 6.tllxc5 ,lixc2t 1 7.iixc2 ixc5 1 8 .�hfl with a level endgame.

1 4 . . . i'Nxf2!?N leads to sharp play: 1 5.i'Nxb4 i'Nxg2 1 6.�e l i'Nxf3i' 1 7.\t>c Joo Black is a pawn up, but his king is less than safe. White has been deprived of castling rights, but he has a plan to activate the queen's rook with a2-a4 and �a3. "l11e position is unclear and roughly balanced.

15 .tllxd4 Wfxd4 Watson concludes that Black's chances may

be marginally higher. I decided to analyse a few moves further.

16 . . . 0-0 17.ie3 "l11is move is also pretty much forced.

17 ... Wfg4 18.:Sdl :Sd8 Black has about enough compensation for

the pawn in this double-edged position. White still has to find a way to bring his rook into play, but Black is also taking some risks, being a pawn down with two further weak pawns on the queenside.

Chapeer 1 2 - 6.dxc5 - wiehouc 8 . 0-0-0 and 8 .l/Jf3 165

E) 7.�d2

a b c d e f g h

Ihis is the main line by far.

7 .. . 0-0 After this standard reply, the two major

opeions for White are 8 .l/Jf3 and 8.0-0-0, which will be analysed in the next chapter. In the remaining part of the presenc chapter we will deal with the sidelines El) 8.f4? and E2) 8.�d3!?.

8.a3?! is deservedly rare and after 8 ... ixc5 Black is already better. White has helped Black to get his bishop out of danger and now Black threatens the e5-pawn. 9.ctJf.3 l/Jg6 1 0.1Wg3 "This was Nygren - A. Spielmann, Seockholm 2003, and here l 0 . . . 1Wc7N+ would have preserved Black's advantage.

El) 8.f4?

Supporting the cenue in this way is not to be recommended for Whiee in chis line. lnseead che first player should keep ehe l ines a supropen for his pieces, and even be ready to sacrifice the e5-pawn for aceive play. Ihe cexc move weakens che lighe squares wiehouc helping White's developmenc. Black has several rouces co a favourable position, but ehe following is my favourite.

8 ... b6!N Now White faces a difficult choice between

a further opening of the posieion, or allowing Black co obtain an ideal pawn centre. Black's last move also prepares ehe developmenc of the c8-bishop, the only problem piece in his posieion.

8 . . . d4N looks eempting, buc after 9.l/Je4 .�.xd2i° I 0.ctJxd2 the situation is nae entirely clear. Black has an objectively good posieion, but ehe problem of the c8-bishop remains.

9.lllf3 9.cxb6 1Wxb6t gives Black cremendous

activiey for ehe pawn, and White will scruggle co complete development and gee his king co safeey. Any atcempe co obtain councerplay with .\ld3 can be dismissed by . . . iaG exchanging the bishop.

9.a3 can be met by 9 . . . ixc3 I O.ixc3 bxc5+ when Black has a powerful pawn centre and betcer developmenc.

9 ... bxc5 Black has the makings of an excellent game,

wieh a strong centre and fucure play along the b-file. White's only real chance is co atcempe an atcack on the kingside.

1 66 5 .\Wg4

10.id3 5! Preventing the obvious threat to take on h7.

l l .exf6 1 1 .Wh3 c4+

1 1 ..J�xf6 Black has sufficient resources to defend, and

White must worry about both . . . e5 and . . . c4.

12 . .. gh6 13.Wf2 c4 14.ie2 \Was+

E2) 8.id3!?

a b c d e f g h

A tricky move. White aims for a quick attack on the kingside and is ready to sacrifice a piece as shown in the next note.

8 .. . 5! 111is has not been the highest-scoring move,

but I believe it is the strongest. I would like to present some analysis of the two main alternatives, to enable the reader to get an understanding of White's ideas.

8 . . . d4? This sharp and interesting continuation has scored four wins and a draw out of five games. I once played it myself (in the one drawn game!) but after investigating it more deeply afterwards I discovered that White is better.

9.lZ:lf3!

a b e d e f g h

"TI1 is piece sacrifice is the point of White's play, and the only move not to give Black an easy advantage.

9 . . . dxc3 I O.bxc3 Now if Black wants to save his bishop he must give up his queen for three minor pieces. In material terms this is not bad at all, but White also gets the initiative and a clear advantage.

I O . . . ixc5 This was a novelty when I played it in 2002. It seemed to offer quite promising chances, but the computers show that White is better.

Chapter 1 2 - 6 .dxc5 - without 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .ctJf3 167

1 0 . . . ll:lxe5? is bad in view of 1 1 .ixh?t ©xh7 Couso - Solak, Chalkidiki 2002. Now 1 2.Wh3t!N would be a significant improvement. 1 2 ... rJdg8 l 3. l2lg5 Ei:e8 (After 1 3 . . . Wxdlt 14 . ©xd2 Ei:d8t 1 5 . ©e2 the c3-pawn is procecced by che queen, which makes a huge difference. White is already winning.)

8 ].;i��'.�%���� 7 ¥.'1 i � ·' · �� 65 �,;•�N;n:�.•:f.Nn n �l.:)1. !".iii] f'.Z_J 4 °�1l ;n"' 1'1 ·n 3 n �� n UiV 2 t/� t3J 'f§j rfj t3J fj[j ;-���r -��{ · · · %�(�' I t� � �§i � §

a b c d e f g h 1 4.Wh?I" ©f8 1 5 .Whst ll:lgs 1 6.ll:lh7t rJde7 1 7.ig5t CLlf6 ( 1 7 .. .f6? 1 8.Wxg7t tll f7 1 9.ixf6t CLlxf6 20.Wxf6t ©d7 2 1 .:gd l t+-) l 8 .ixf6t rJdd7 1 9.Ei:d l t rJdc6 20.Wxg7 ixc3t 2 1 . ©e2 Wa5 22.Ei:d6t ©xc5 23.ixeS Afcer a long forced line White emerges with a won position.

a b c d e f g h 1 1 .ixh?t ©xh7 1 2.1Wh5t ©g8 1 3 .ctJgS Wxd2i"

1 3 . . . Ei:eS?? loses co 1 4.Wh7t ©f8 1 5 .WhSt ctJg8 1 6.CLlh7t ©e7 l 7.ig5t tllf6 1 8 .Wxg7! when Black's position collapses.

1 4.©xd2 Eld8t 1 5 .©e l !N I 5. rJde2 was beccer for White in Couso -Berg, Stockholm 2002, but the text move is even stronger.

1 5 . . . tllg6 16 .h4± "ll1e point of moving che king co e 1 is

revealed, as there is no fork on f4 . 1 6.Ei:d I ± is also excellenc for White; eicher way, Black is coo slow in creating active councerplay with his minor pieces.

8 . . . ixc3?! "ll1is is che main recommendation of Watson, and anorher move thac I have cried in my own praxis. Ac firsc I choughc ic was a simple way for Black co gee a small advantage, but further analysis convinced me it is actually Whice who is better.

9.ixc3 9.bxc3? tllxe5 10 .ixh7"!" ©xh7 I 1 .Wh5t ©g8 1 2.Wxe5 f6 l3 .Wh5 We?+ was advantageous for Black in Couso - Berg, Gothenburg 2004. Black has che better pawn structure and a strong centre.

9 . . . d4

a b c d e f g h 1 0.0-0-0!N

1 0.id2?! CLlxe5 1 1 .ixh?t rJdxh7 1 2.Wh5t ©g8 1 3 .1Wxe5 occurred in Van der Veen - Wempe, Hoogeveen 2004, and here l 3 . . . f6N+ followed by . . . e5 would have given Black a stable plus thanks co his scrong pawn cencre.

1 68 5 .\Wg4

"The text move is a powerful novelty. Black gets a material advantage by trading his queen for a rook and two minor pieces, bur White obtains an initiative and attacking possibilities on the kingside.

I O . . . dxc3 111e only critical try. Other moves will just leave Black worse.

I I .il.xh7t 'it>xh7 1 2.Ei:xdS White can also play the speculative I 2.ctJf3!? when the queen still doesn't run away. 1 2 . . . liid5 ( 1 2 . . . c;tigs I 3.liig5t) 1 3.Wh5t 'it>g8 14 .liig5 cxb2t 1 5 .'it>b l ( 1 5 .'it>xb2? liif6!-+) 1 5 . . . ctJc3t 1 6.'it>xb2 liixd ! I' 1 7.Ei:xd l Wxg5 1 8.Wxg5 f6 1 9.exf6 Ei:xf6 Materially speaking the position is pretty equal. However, Black's lack of development might well give White time to create an attack.

1 2 . . . cxb2t 1 3 .'it>xb2 Ei:xd8 1 4.liif3 'it>g8

I 5 .h4! By pushing the h-pawn forward White will get all his pieces in the attack, and according to my analyses White is better. At first glance everything seems okay for Black, but as you look deeper it tends to get worse and worse. Watson only gives I 5 .Wh5 followed by a sharp line that ends up in an equal endgame.

I 5 . . . liif5 I 6 .h5 liih6 I 7.We4 liie7 1 7 . . . Ei:d5 1 8 .c4 Ei:xc5 1 9 .Ei:d l gives White full control over the d-file and Black is in serious trouble. A simple yet instructive

l ine that highlights his lack of coordination is: I 9 . . . b6?? 20.Wxc6!! Ei:xc6 2 l .Ei:d8t 'it>h7 22.liig5#

1 8 .g4 Planning liig5 with a strong attack.

Having discussed the inferior options, let us return to the correct 8 . . . f5! .

E21) IO.\Wh4 h6

a b c d e f g h

I I .f4

Chapter 1 2 - 6.dxc5 - wirhour 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .ctJf3 169

l l .g4 is ambitious but nor good: l l . . . �xc5 12 .0-0-0 llie5 1 3.�e3 ll'ixd3t 14.Ei:xd3 This position occurred in Meister - Machelett, Germany 2008, and here I found a way to improve Black's play:

1 1 .. . .L.cs 12.llif.3 llib4 13.g4?! lhis aggressive move looks critical, and ir

led to an eventual victory for White in rhe one practical encounter. Black certainly has to be careful and defend well, bur if he succeeds he will stand better.

1 3 .l2Je5N is more prudent, although after 1 3 . . . ll'ixd3t 1 4.ll'ixd3 b6 1 5 .0-0-0 �b7 I sl ightly prefer Black thanks to his better piece coordination. "Ihe white bishop is stuck behind the f4-pawn and the c3-knight stil l needs to find a suitable outpost. Black's unopposed light-squared bishop might also become strong as the game unfolds.

13 . . . llixd3t 14.cxd3 Now in Findlay - Shorr, Ayr 1 978, Black

elected to put his queen on f8, bur I would l ike to propose another idea:

s J•*Wt,•"i• : •,•aTJ"• 5 .·.f�f '!& ' 4 DJ3g •w�D\'il 3 •

•• !.�irl

2 !�� ····· f t 'W "r%DW , t� - � - M a b c d e f g h

14 ... id6!N 15.gS l 5 .\Wg3 !'lf8!

Retreating the rook avoids g4-g5 coming with tempo. 1 5 . . . gS!? might also be good, bur involves a lor of risk in a practical game.

1 6.ll'ieS 1 6.0-0-0 \Wc7+ 1 6.g5 ll'if5+ gives Black good control.

1 6 . . . �xeS 1 7.fXeS Vf!c7+ Now White's long castling is prevented

and his king will be stuck in the centre for a while. At the same time the e5"pawn becomes a target.

1 70 5 .®g4

1 6.'\Wg4 hxg5 1 7.fxg5 e5 1 8.'\Wh5 ms 1 9 .tt:lh4 ( 1 9.0-0-0 �f5+) I 9 . . . tt:lxh4 20.'\Wxh4 if5 2 1 .'1Wh5 g6 22.'1We2 ic5+

16 ... llJxf4 l 7.hf4 gxf4 18.gxh6

19.°Wg6 °Wf6 20.°WeSt °Wffi 21.°Wxffit gxffi 22.liJbS ibs 23.gcl if4 24.hxg7 �'U7 25.gc2 id? 26.llic3 gxg7

With rwo bishops against rwo knights on a largely open board, Black has decent winning chances in this endgame.

E22) 10.0-0-0

10 ... h6! A useful prophylactic move.

'CT1c more popular 1 O . . . e5 gives White concrete counterplay after I I .'\Wh5 when I I . . . h6 can be met by I 2.g4 (or I 2.f4).

1 1 .Wfhs Moving the queen out of the bishop's firing

line is certainly logical. I considered two other moves:

1 I .llif3 occurred in Forsaa - Grover, Reykjavik 201 I , and here I favour the simple I l . . .�xc5N when it is hard to find much dynamic countcrplay for White. Apart from the obvious plan of . . . e5, Black is also ready to play . . . tt:lb4 to exchange off the strong bishop and take the sting out of White's attack.

I I . f4N is an untested but quite logical move. Play may continue as follows: 1 I . . .ixc5 1 2.'1Wg3 tt:lb4 1 3 .a3 lllxd3t 1 4.'\Wxd3

a b c d e f g h I 4 . . . e5!? An active move making good use of Black's development advantage. (1l1c simple I 4 . . . id7 = is also perfectly fine.) 1 5 .fxc5 if5 I 6.\Wb5 ( 1 6.\We2 :!::1c6�) 1 6 . . . :!::1c6t Black has full compensation for the sacrificed pawn in view of his bishop pair and piece activity.

1 1 ...id? l I . . .e5 transposes co 1 0 . . . e5 as noted above,

which I prefer to avoid.

Chaprer 1 2 - 6.dxc5 - wirhour 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .ll'if3 1 7 1

A more interesring alrernarive is: 1 1 ... �xcS!?N

'This has nor yer been played, bur ir seems like a worrhy alrernarive ro rhe main line.

1 2.g4!? Afrer 1 2.f4 li::lb4+ Whire will nor reach e5 with the knight in rime to recaprure with rhe knighr on d3. Moving rhe bishop would also be a concession from White, so Black can already claim some advantage. 'll1e texr move is perhaps mosr critical, but Black has a convincing counter.

Elli.� �·% � � �r• j��i� 6 /, "�IR».t. �� %w� 5 ��'�' Y.�VJll � 'l// ' '" • /� 4 • • � �-3 � ��� ' ,�/,(/,''"», . , , , ;%«' '».%"-"''.%;;<'"'' 2 A :ZA� A q'(.<0 :j?:� :f?;� 0 ?,'Q% 0 00 ;{Q% ?,Q; I . "�'·i•" ,�: � /, /, � // . . . .

a b c d e f g h l 2. . . li::lb4! l 3.�e2

White needs ro preserve his lighr-squared bishop in order ro have any real hope of success on rhe kingside. However, chis move loses rime and Black gees a favourable posirion.

1 3 . . . �d7 I ntending . . . �e8. Ir is worth pointing out the following line.

1 4.a3 1 4.gS hxg5+

1 4 . . . li::lxc2! 1 5 .©xc2 Wb6 Black has sacrificed a knight for a pawn, but the white king is in serious trouble. 111e primary threat is . . . �e8-g6t, but also rhe s imple ... �c8 followed by . . . d4 causes trouble.

l 6.g5 .�e8 17 .gxf6 1 7. Wh3 �xf2-+ gives Black a serious arrack.

1 7 . . . �xh5 1 8 .�xh5 gxf6

s E� � �·-01'?!' & %0/ :� !'fi,% 7 » � - � � ;(� �- %,, , ·:%30�,''' · · ·�' ''%�%;&1'% : -��1�·��,t 4 �(f-�f.'%���rf%{� 3 0u w � � f jm r,i ·" % '/�% :::•® '/ 2 ibt@� ff'!§ if'!§ I �% ;.�, i:iiJ/� . �ff>;�/: � ��� �;

a b c d e f g h 1 9.li::la4 Wc6 20.li::lxcS Wxc5t 2 1 .©b l d4

The marerial balance is rarher i rregular, bur Black has rhe initiative and the berrer chances overall . Therefore I can recommend 1 1 . . . �xcS!?N as a promising new parh, and will leave ir ro rhe reader ro decide if he prefers it over the main l ine, which is, by the way, also quire pleasant for Black.

1 72 5 .Wg4

'TI1e other knight development does not impress: l 2.lLlh3?!

Strenzwilk - Ritvin, Washington DC 1 999. 'TI1e only logic behind this move is that, contrary to having the knight on f.3, White can still push his kingside pawns. However, Black does well after the simple improvement:

l 2 ... ixc5N l 3.g4? Consistent, but not good. The lesser evil is: 1 3.lLlf4N tt:lb4 1 4.cj;1bl l:l:c8+

l 3 . . . ie8 l 4.iMfh4 tt:lb4 l 5 .g5 1 5 .ie2 iMfb6+

I 2.f4!?N also comes into consideration, although i t loses some of its force when Black has not committed himself with . . . e5 . A possible continuation is: 1 2 . . . ixc5 1 3.lLlf3 tt:lb4 1 4.tt:le5 tt:lxd3t ( 1 4 . . . l:l:c8!?) l 5 .tt:lxd3 id6= (l 5 . . . l:l:f5!?) A balanced position has arisen. I believe Black should be fine as White's attack is not dangerous following the elimination of the light-squared bishop.

a b c d e f g h

12 . . . Lc5N 'TI1is simple move improves over Black's play

in Bengrsson - Renman, Linkoping 1 984, in which 1 2 . . . iMff8 occurred.

13.<;tibl 't.We8! Black will benefit from exchanging queens,

since White's whole set-up is based on creating a kingside attack.

14.'\Wh4 a6! A useful move that rakes the b5-square away

from White's knight. Now the bishop can be securely placed on d6 to support the centre when necessary. Black is slightly better, as White lacks good squares for his pieces and he is unable to create meaningful threats on the kingside.

Conclusion Variations A, B and C are harmless at best, and Black obtains at least equal play without much difficulty. The fourth sideline is more interesting although we saw that Black has a choice of acceptable l ines.

We finished by looking at the most common continuation, 7.id2 0-0. 'TI1en 8 .f4 is just bad for White, but 8.id3!? is quite a respectable sideline that demands an accurate response. My analysis has demonstrated that 8 . . . f5 ! is che correct way, and should lead to at least an equal position for Black.

5.�g4 a b c d e f g h

Main Lines with 8.0-0-0 and 8.�f3

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.llic3 i,b4 4.eS cS s.Wg4 llie7 6.dxcS llibc6 7.i,d2

7 ... 0-0 A) 8.0-0-0

Al) 8 ... b6!? A2) 8 ... fS!

B) 8.llif3 fS Bl) 9.Wg3 B2) 9.WhS B3) 9.Wh4 B4) 9.exf6

Al) after 1 6.li:lci

1 6 . . . 8:d4!?N

B I ) after 1 1 .0-0 B3) after 9.'i:Vh4

I I . . .li:Jd4!N

174 175 177 179 179 180 181 182

1 74 5 .'\Wg4

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ctJc3 i.h4 4.e5 c5 5.'\Wg4 ctJe7 6.dxc5 ctJbc6 7.i.d2 0-0

8 :im.t� �:1•� 7 mf� "�f.t�mf 6 , ,.: ••• "•

m �-���n� �

:�

,�·�1� 3 .�1m�

���

0

��-ef""' ;�-� ��-,,,, ��-� 2 8 r� 8 � r�8 r!!1 �-,, , ,Zz·

� " " '�.}£��

,, . . . . Y. � /,, . , Z // . . . . . a b c d e f g h

In this, the third and final chapter on 5-1.Wg4 lines, we will deal with White's two most important moves in the present position, namely A) 8.0-0-0 and B) 8.ctJ8 .

A) 8.0-0-0

From this position I considered three main continuations for Black. Initially I thought they all seemed promising, but a deeper investigation revealed some strong ideas for White. I will discuss both Al) 8 • . . b6!? and A2) 8 • • . f5!, while making it clear that the latter is my recommendation.

1he other candidate is: 8 . . .. �xc5

Not only regaining the pawn but also removing the bishop from the fourth rank, thereby making ... ll:ixe5 a threat. Unfortunately I found that White has quite dangerous attacking prospects, and will present a short summary of my analysis.

9. ll:if3 ll:ig6 9 ... f5! ? 1 O.exf6 E!xf6 is possible, and may actually be Black's best bet. However, if we are heading for this type of position I would prefer 8 . . .f5 ! a move earlier, in order to keep some flexibility for the bishop on b4.

1 O.'\Wh5 i.d7

1 1 . 'ttib I ! ·n1is move has the concrete idea of playing .id3 next without allowing . . . ll:ib4xd3 with check. White has quite a few dangerous attacking ideas while Black is forced to grab material and defend.

l 1 . . . '\We8 Intending to defend with . . .f5 . I analysed 1 1 . . . ll:ice? in some depth, but the short version is that I could not fully solve Black's problems after l 2 . .id3 (or 1 2.h4!?N) . l l . . . .ixf2N is a principled decision, but one entailing obvious risks. l 2 . .id3 .ie8 Preparing for .. . f5 . 1 3 .l'!hfl ( l 3.'\Wh3!?) l 3 ... .ic5 l 4.ll:ie2 h6 l 5.g4 White has excellent attacking prospects.

1 2.h4 l'!c8 l 2 . . . .ixf2N is the critical test, but again i t looks risky after l 3 .lLlb5 '\Wb8 I 4 . .ic3 when White has a strong initiative for the small price of a pawn.

Chapter 1 3 - Main Lines with 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .ll'if3 175

1 3 . .ie3!N Improving on 1 3.llig5?! h6 1 4.llif3 f5 1 5 .exf6

:E'i:xf6 when Black was better in Movsesian -Bukal, Medulin 1 997. The text move preserves some initiative for White. Black is not without chances, but ultimately this position is not one I would recommend.

Al) 8 . .. b6!?

a b c d e f g h

This is a thematic move which we have come across quite a few times, and it is especially attractive after White has committed himself to long castl ing. At this particular moment, however, we should be aware of a sharp tactical possibili ty by White.

9.ig5! This move has only been played twice, but

i t contains a lot of poison. White's crude but effective threat is to put the bishop on f6.

Since this line is not my mam recommendation for Black. I will not discuss White's less critical moves, other than to say that Black is doing well against all of chem.

9 • • • '1Md7 I considered three other moves for Black.

9 . . . .ixc3? is an error due to: 10 . .if6! .ixb2t (After 1 O . . . g6? 1 1 .bxc3+- the dark-square

weaknesses are fatal.) 1 1 . 'it>xb2 g6 1 2. Wh4 bxcS l 3.!l:d3 Threatening to give up the queen on h7. 1 3 . . . llifS ( 1 3 . . . Wb6t 1 4.:E'i:b3 llifS 1 5 .:E'i:xb6 llixh4 1 6.:E'i:xc6+-) 1 4 . .ixd8 lllxh4 1 S .ixh4 .ia6 1 6.:E'i:d 1 .ixf! 1 7.!l:xfl llixe5 1 8 . .ig3± Black has some compensation, but far from enough.

9 . . . Wc7!?N 1 0.lllbS 10 . .ixe??! Wxe7 1 1 ..ibS ixc3 12 . .ixc6 wins a piece for White, bur after 1 2 . . . ixb2t 13 . 'itixb2 :E'i:b8 Black has more than full compensation in view of White's lack of coordination and weakened king. A possible line is: 1 4.:E'i:b l We? 1 5 .ia4 bxcSt 1 6.®c ! :E'i:xb l t 1 7.'it>xb l ia6+ Black has a great initiative. It should also be mentioned that the bishop on a4 can be caught at any moment for the price of the c-pawn.

10 . . . Wd? Now the bS-square is blocked by the knight, avoiding ibS. Nevertheless, White can fight for the initiative in other ways.

1 l .cxb6 ic5 1 2.lllf3 axb6 1 3 .®b l .ixf2 1 4.h4!i

9 . . . ®h8 This prevents the immediate threat, but White can cause problems with:

1 76 5 .'Wg4

I O.id3 was also quite promising for White in Pavlovic - Sadorra, Richardson 201 1 . At this point, instead of 1 0 . . .'\Mf e8 allowing I 1 .lt:\b5 with tempo, Black should have gone for 1 0 . . . Wfd7N although the position still looks pretty dangerous for him.

1 0 . . . f6 After 1 0 . . . ixc3?! 1 1 .�xc3 f6 ( 1 J . . .lt:lxe5? 1 2.Wfh5 followed by �h3 i s killing) 1 2.exf6 gxf6 1 3 .�h3! White has a dangerous attack and is also a pawn up.

1 1.exf6 gxf6 1 2.Wfh5i White has a strong initiative.

Let's return to 9 . . . 'Wd7. 1he queen steps out of one pin but immediately enters a new one.

a b c d e f g h

10 . .ibS! Attempting to exploit the loose knights.

10 ... .ixcSN I t is essential for Black to improve on the

following game: I O . . . ixc3? I l .ixc6 Wfxc6 1 2.ixe7 ixe5 1 3.lt:\f3 ic7

Recuero Guerra - Nabaty, Fermo 2009. Now instead of taking on f8 immediately, White could have prevented unnecessary counterplay with:

1 4.lt:\d4!N Wfe8 1 5.ixf8 Also interesting is 1 5 .if6!? g6 1 6.Wfg5 id8

1 7.c6 ixf6 1 8.Wfxf6 Wfd8 1 9.Wfxd8 �xd8 20.�he l ± when White is dominating the bishop in the endgame.

1 5 . . . Wfxf8 1 6.c6 e5 1 7.Wfg3± With a significant material plus for White.

a b c d e f g h

I 1 .ctJf3 Black is behind in development with his

bishop sti l l on c8, and will have to watch our for numerous tactics after id3.

1 J .lt:\e4 may seem tempting, bur after I 1 . . . lt:lg6! Black is doing fine.

I l .b4!? 1his is the top choice of my Houdini 3 engine, but I would not fear it . Black is forced to give up material, bur he has two ways of ensuring adequate compensation.

l I . . . lt:\xe5!? 1 1 . . . ixb4 is also sufficient: I 2.Wf xb4 f6 1 3.exf6 gxf6 1 4.ih6 ( 1 4.Wfh4 fxg5 1 5 .Wfxg5!" <i>h8 is also fine for Black.) 1 4 . . . lt:lxb4 1 5 .ixd7 ixd7 1 6.ixf8 ©xf8� Black has a pawn for the exchange as well as a strong centre. 1he position is about equal.

I 2.Wf g3 Wfc7 1 3 .if6 lt:\f5! 1 4.ixe5 Wf e7 I 5.Wf d3 ixb4�

Black has compensation in view of two extra central pawns and attacking chances against White's vulnerable king.

Chaprer 1 3 - Main Lines wirh 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .l2'lf3 1 77

l l ...a6 1his seems best.

l l . . .�b7?? is a serious error. Black is simply too slow after 1 2.�fG l2'lg6 l 3.h4! with che poinc 1 3 . . . gxfG 14.l2Jxd5! lLlcxe5 1 5 .lLlxe5 \¥fxb5 i 6.h5+- and the actack crushes through.

l l .. .'®c7 looks playable, but White has some iniciacive and actacking chances afcer 1 2.�xcG ( 1 2.�he l !?) 1 2 . . . \WxcG 1 3 .�xe7 �xe7 14.l2Jd4 \Wc4 l 5.�d3t swinging che rook over co the kingside.

12.i,d3 Whice's kingside build-up looks quite

inc imidacing, buc Black may scill be okay.

a b c d e f g h 12 ... lLib4??

I mencion chis move purely for illuscracive purposes co h ighlighc che dangers.

lnscead 1 2 . . . lLlgG! should be played, incending 1 3 .\Wg3 lLlgxe5! which cums ouc okay for Black.

13.hh?t! ltixh7 14.i,f6! Afcer chis key move Black's defences swifcly

collapse.

15.\WhSt \tig8 16.lllgS �d8 17.'.Wh?t @f8 18.\Wxg?t \ties 19.i,xd8 i,f8 20.'1Wg8+-

0verall I have mixed feel ings abouc 8 . . . b6!?. Scriccly speaking it may well be fine, as long as Black plays che improvemenc given in the noce co move 1 2 above. Nevercheless, I do noc feel alcogecher comforcable allowing che whice pieces to congregace on che kingside. For chis reason I have focused most of my actencion on che following alcernacive, which I believe co be safer and easier co handle.

A2) 8 • • • fS!

1 78 5 .Wl'g4

9.exf6 gxf6 IO.llif3 1 O.id3 takes us back to line E22 of the

previous chapter on page 1 70.

The present position can also be reached via the 8 .tllf3 move order, as pointed out later on page 1 82.

10 ... e5 1 1 . '\Wh5 l l .Wi'g3?! occurred in Unglaub - Schloegel,

corr. 1 994, and here the natural l I . . .tllf5N should lead to an edge for Black, for instance: 1 2.Wg5 ie6 1 3.g4 h6 1 4.'\Wh5 if7 1 5 .'\Wh3 tllfd4 1 6.tllxd4 exd4 17 .tllb l El:xf2+

1 1 ...ixc3 Warson recommends 1 1 . . .Eff5 and, after

analysing it in some derail, I would agree that i t is fully playable and gives Black good chances. The text move is also quite healthy though, and does not involve as many complicated variations.

12.ixc3 1 2.bxc3?? '1Wa5 gives White a horrible pawn

structure and his position is actually already lost. ll1e one practical example was over quickly: 1 3.tllxe5 ( 1 3.©b2 if5-+ would not have survived for long either.) 1 3 . . . \Wxa2 1 4.�g5 Ei:xf2 I 5 .'\We8t ms 1 6.Wh5 tllxe5 1 7.!xe7 !f5 0- 1 Van der Veen - Barsov, Haarlem 1 999.

12 .. . gf5 13.'1Wg4 1 3 .'\Wh4 ;gr4 14.'1Wg3 transposes, as does

1 3.'1Wh3 Ei:f4 1 4.Wi'g3.

l3 ... gf4 14.'1Wg3 1 4.Wg5 only helps Black after 1 4 . . . h6, which

is a useful move to have played.

14 ... gg4 15.'1Wh3 llig6!? l 5 . . . Ei:f4 is possible, forcing a repetition of

moves.

16.lllel 1 6.g3? Ei:d4 1 7.Wg2 El:xd l t 1 8 .©xd l !e6+

was Van Kemenade - Spence, Great Yarmouth 2007.

Here Black has tried both . . . '\We7 and . . . Wf8 but instead I would like to propose a novelty:

17.'1Wg3 gxdlt 18.iixdl .ie6 Black has an active game while White is

behind in development and has a vulnerable king in the centre.

Chapter 1 3 - Main Lines with 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .lllf3 179

B) 8.ll'lf3

8 ... fS 8 . . . l2'lg6 is a decent alternative, but I have

chosen to recommend the pawn advance, partly for thematic consistency but mainly because it is simply a good move. "This time White is not forced to capture en passant, and can consider Bl) 9.Wf g3, B2) 9.WfhS, B3) 9.Wfh4 as well as B4) 9.exf6.

BI) 9.Wfg3

"D1is has been the second most popular choice, but i t is harmless.

9 ... ltJg6 IO.id3 Les

I O . . . d4 seems playable but is not my first choice.

1 1 .0-0 l 1 .l2'le2N Vl1c7 1 2.ic3 gd8! gives Black an

edge; the idea is . . . d4 and . . . l2'lcxe5.

Here I found an improvement over the game Rosenhahn - Peglau, corr. 1 979.

12.ll'le2 "D1is rather ugly move is the computer's top

choice.

After 1 2.l2'lxd4 �xd4 1 3.gae l �d7+ the pressure against the e5-pawn is quite unpleasant.

1 2.gae I l2'lxf3t 13 .VlJxB �d7+ is a similar story, and may transpose after l 4.Vl1g4 id4.

12 ... ltJxf3t 13.gxf3 id7; White has solved the problem of the

e5-pawn as he has the f3-t4 move available, but his kingside structure has been damaged and Black's chances are higher.

1 80 5 .1Ml'g4

B2) 9.1Ml'h5

10.ctJb5 �xd2t l 1 .tllxd2 tllg6 This works well, but the interesting novelty

1 l . . . b6!?N may be just as promising, so Black is already spoiled for choice.

12.tt'lc4N 1he only challenging move, but Black has a

strong counter. 1 2.lllb3?! b6! l 3.cxb6 ( 1 3 .0-0-0 bxc5

l 4.lllxc5 ®b6 1 5 .lllb3 %%d8 transposes) 1 3 . . . ®xb6 1 4 .0-0-0 %%d8+ gave Black excellent play in Scribner - 1hompson, corr. 1 988.

12 . . . Wl'd5! 13.ctJc7 Wl'xc5 14.tt'lxa8 b5 15.tlld2 tt'lb4

Black is temporarily a rook down, but the knight on a8 is doomed and there are many other threats.

16.ctJb3 'I11e alternative is: 1 6 .. �d3 l/.Jf4 17.®f3

'.Wxe5t 1 8.\t>dl ( 1 8.@fl ®b8!+) 1 8 . . . lllbxd3 1 9 .cxd3 ®b8

a b c d e f g h

20.�c l (20.g3 �b7! 2 1 .°Wxf4 e5 22.®g5 �xh l +) 20 . . . �b? 2 1 .®g3 �xa8+ Black has more than enough compensation for the exchange in view of his strong minor pieces and White's vulnerable king.

Chapter 1 3 - Main Lines with 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .lll f3 1 8 1

23 ... eS 24.lllc? a6 Black has three pawns for a piece so the

material situation is abour equal. However, rhc fact char we are close ro an endgame leads me ro favour Black sl ightly, as rhe passed pawns are more relevant.

83) 9.'Wh4

9 .. . 'Wc7!N

Black purs immediate pressure on rhe e5-pawn and rhrearens ro win i r immediarely wirh . . . 'llg6. According ro my analysis Black will achieve at least a slighr advanrage wirhour raking risks.

9 . . . 'llg6 and 9 . . . d4 borh give Black a good game, although rhe larter invites heavy complications, quire needlessly in my view. Ir should also be no red rhar 9 . . . ixc5?! should be avoided due ro 10 .'lla4! .

10.lllb5 10 .0-0-0 is simply mer by 10 . . . ixc5+, wirh

rhe poinr rhar l ! .'lla4? is mer by l l . . .Cllg6 when rhe exchange of queens is no longer possible.

10 . . . ix:d2t I I .<i>xd2 Now rhis seemingly risky move is necessary.

White hopes rhar his dark-square conrrol will make up for rhe inconvenience ro his king, bur Black can obrain an edge by acring correctly and decisively.

1 3 .b4? ®a4! 1 4.®h5 a5 1 5.Cllg5 h6 1 6.'llxe6 ixe6 1 7.®xg6 if7 1 8.®xf5 ( 1 8 .®g3 f4!-+) 1 8 . . . axb4-+ gives Black a crushing arrack.

1 82 5 .�g4

l 3.�g5 may be best, but after l 3 ... lllcxe5 1 4.lllxe5 lllxe5+ Black's chances are higher.

14 ... �xc5 15.ctJg5 �xf2t 16.�e2

8 ;i mAm �:1·� 1 m• m m �' 6 ·-�� · -�-5 m %m»•D l�vl : ��-·.· 2 A �� m � Mill A �� o ro% �'§"� &, �61 o �o� I ��- . /,m/,, , , /,-/,, , ,/,-�

a b c d e f g h 16 ... h6

The only move but good enough.

17.�xg6 1 7.:§:hfl �b6-+

17 ... �f4t Simplest, although l 7 . . . hxg5 is also excellent

for Black as l 8.�xg5? \Wb6! is nasty.

18.@dl �xg5+ White faces a demoralizing endgame.

B4) 9.exf6 gxf6

White can and should take the opportunity to transpose to the earlier variation A2; he can do this either with the immediate 1 0.0-0-0, or with I O.�h5 e5 1 1 .0-0-0.

1 0.llle5? led to success for White in one game but Black's play can easily be improved. 1 0 . . . ixc5 l 1 .llld3 c5 1 2.�a4? ( 1 2.\Wh4N would have been better, but Black still has a serious advantage after l 2 . . . �d4+ .)

Chapter 1 3 - Main Lines with 8 .0-0-0 and 8 .'llf3 1 83

This was Al Modiahki - Prakken, Benasque 1 999, and here 1 2 . . . idG!N would already have been winning, for instance 1 3 .ig5 'lld4! 1 4.ixf6 id7-+ winning the queen.

10 • . . e5 1 1 . '1Wh4? l l .1Wg3N is essential, but after l l .. J:�e6+

Black is doing well.

12.bxc3 '1Wa5 Not coo surprisingly, White is already lost.

13.� Nothing is changed by:

1 3 .id2

Black also wins after 1 4 .1Wg3 �g4 1 5 .\Wh3 �e4t and 1 4.W/h5 ig4 1 5 .1Wg5 �e4t 1 6.ie2 h6.

14 ... �g4 l 5 .\Wh5 'fhis was Kravtsiv - Yaremko, Rodatychi 2006, and here the most straightforward win would have been:

14 ... lllf5 1 5.'1Wa4 After 1 5 .\Wg5 'llfd4t 1 6.tllxd4 lllxd4t

1 7.©d l \Wxc2i' 1 8.©el 1Wc3t White can resign.

1 84 5 .\!Hg4

Conclusion

8.0-0-0 is quite a common move which presents Black with an interesting choice. 8 . . . b6!? has some appealing points but the rare 9.ig5! is dangerous and could well become the main l ine. Objectively Black may be fine, but I find 8 .. . f5! to be a more prudent choice, leading to a satisfactory position with l ittle risk.

8.lbf3 is a significant alternative, when once again 8 .. .f5 leads to a good position for Black, regardless of whether White takes en passant or moves his queen away.

5.id2 Introduction

Variation Index 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Cllc3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5 . .id2

A) 6.f4?! B) 6 . .id3!? C) 6.dxc5 D) 6.Cllce2 E) 6.tllf3 F) 6.a3 .ixc3

Fl) 7.bxc3 F2) 7 . .ixc3 b6

F21) 8.b4!? F22) 8 . .ib5t

A) after 8. b4

;i b c d c f g h 8 . . . a6!N

5 ... tllh6

C) after 1 3.�f4 F22) after 1 4.ll'ibS

1 3 . . . a6!?N 14 . . . g6!N

186 186 187 189 191 192 192 193 193 194

1 86 5 .id2

1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ClJc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.id2 6 • . . cxd4

"TI1is is White's most significant deviation from 5.a3, and it has two main ideas. One obvious point is that White can avoid doubled pawns in the event of an exchange on c3 . Perhaps more importantly, White unpins the knight and makes lDb5 into quite a serious threat.

5 ... Cllh6 This move may not be objectively better

than 5 . . . ctJe7, but it is less well known and provides more room for creativity. White has tried many different responses, and the present chapter will deal with the following six: A) 6.f4?!, B) 6.J.d3!?, C) 6.dxc5, D) 6.lllce2, E) 6.lllf3 and F) 6.a3.

6.ixh6!? is an interesting move which will receive dedicated coverage in Chapter 1 5 .

6.lDb5 is the main line and will be analysed in Chapter 1 6.

A) 6.f4?!

White tries to support his centre before developing his kingside pieces, but the plan is rather slow.

6 . . . lDf5 ! ? also looks good.

7.ClJb5 J.c5 8.b4 This position occurred in Willemze - Barsov,

Yl issingen 2000. Instead of retreating the bishop to e7 I suggest the improvement:

a b c d e f g h

8 . . . a6!N "TI1is gives Black at least a slight edge, for

instance:

9.bxc5 axb5 10.ClJ£3 I O . .\ti,xb5t id7 1 1 Jkd3 ctJa6 gives Black

a plus in view of White's weakened pawn structure.

10 ... J.d? l I .J.d3 llla6 12.lllxd4 ClJxc5; Black is a pawn up and has somewhat better

chances.

B) 6.J.d3!?

"Ibis is quite an interesting move which has been played by Leko.

6 . . • cxd4 "TI1is is my first choice although 6 . . . ll:ic6 is

also playable.

7.Cllb5 fud2t 8.�xd2 0-0 9.ClJxd4

Chapter 1 4 - Introduction 1 87

White gains nothing by delaying this capture: 9.lllf3 l2Jc6 1 0.0-0 f6 1 1 .exfG �xf6 (The spectacular 1 l . . . e5!?N is also interesting, when the game gets pretty sharp.) 1 2.lllbxd4 lllxd4 l 3.lllxd4 e5 Black was at least equal in Sacher - Schwend, Germany 200 I .

9 . .. ltJc6 10.lDgf3 lDxd4 l 1 .lLJxd4

12.exf6 l 2. lllf3 lllf7 =

12 ... Wfxf6 13.0-0 eS Black was fine in Sapundjiev - Makowski,

corr. 20 1 0.

C) 6.dxcS

a b c d e f g h

6 . . • lLJc6 I spent some time looking at 6 . . . llld7 but

eventually decided I preferred the text move.

7.lDf3 I doubt that White has anything better than

this simple move.

7.ib5N has not yet been tried, and indeed Black seems to be fine. 7 . . . tt:Jf5 8 .lllf3 0-0

7.\Wh5 This has been tried a few times. The queen move is quite aggressive but the position is at least as risky for White as for Black.

7 ... lllf5 8 .lllf3 ixc5 9.id3 Here I found a promising new idea.

1 88 5 .id2

9 . . . lLlfd4!N Simplifying the posltlon and removing a defender of the e5-pawn.

1 o.lLlxd4 1 O .'Wg4 lLlxf3t l l .gxf3 g6 gives Black a better pawn structure and excellent long­term chances. 111e dark-square weaknesses can be addressed by retreating the bishop from c5 if necessary. 10 .0-0-0 lLlxf3 l l .gxf3 g6 1 2.\WhG if8 1 3.'Wg5 !e7 1 4.'\Wf4 a6 also looks comfortable for Black.

1 O . . . !xd4 l l .f4 a6= l 1 . . . lLlb4!? also looks interesting. Either way,

Black is doing fine.

7 . . . lLlg4!? I nitially this move seems to have all the ingredients for success. I t is aggressive, thematic (making use of the knight's placement on h6) and has scored 21/2/3 for Black in practice. Unfortunately, when I analysed it I found some nice ideas for White. I will share the most important parts of my analysis below.

8 .ib5 !xc5 9.0-0

9 . . .fG!?N "l11is was my best attempt, but it still falls short of equality. 9 . . . id7 1 O.'We2 We? occurred in Taeger -Ploehn , Bavaria 2005, and here l l .�.xc6!N would have been promising for White: a) 1 l . . .bxc6 1 2.h3 lLlh6 1 3.!xh6 gxh6 14 .b3t b) l l . . .!xc6 l 2.h3 lLlhG 1 3 .!xhG gxh6 1 4.lLlbSt c) l l . . .'Wxc6 1 2.h3 lLlh6 1 3 . . lkxh6 gxh6 I 4.a4t White is slightly better. True enough, Black has the pair of bishops, but the one on d7 is not doing much and White is close to achieving a blockade with a knight on d4. Black also has doubled h-pawns and problems finding a safe home for his king.

I O .l2Ja4! I O .exf6 lLlxfG leads to dynamic equality.

1 0 . . . ie7

Chapter 1 4 - Introduction 1 89

1 o . . . �xf2t?! might seem tempting, bur after l l .:i3xf2 lllxf2 1 2.�xc6t bxc6 1 3 .<j;>xf2 fxe5 14 .�b4!t White dominates on the dark squares. A further continuation might be: 1 4 . . . e4 1 5 .llld4 iWf6t 16.Wgl e5 1 7.iWh5t g6 l 8 .iWh6 exd4 l 9.E£fl .�J5 20.:i3xf5 iWxf5 2 1 .'1Wg7 0-0-0 22.iWxa7+-

l l .exf6 l l .c4 0-0 l 2.exf6 �.xf6 l 3.cxd5 exd5 is fine for Black.

l 1 . . .lllxf6 1 2.c4 '01is is the main idea behind the knight move to a4.

1 2 . . . 0-0 1 3.:i3c l !i White keeps a slight initiative.

I t is logical for White to take the opportunity to weaken Black's pawn structure. Nevercheless, I believe that Black's activity and bishop pair compensates for the doubled h-pawns.

8 ... gxh6 9.Wfd2 i.d7 10.0-0-0 I 0 .�e2 can be met by 1 0 . . . iWb6 I I . 0-0

llld4! with good counterplay.

10 ... Wfa5 1 1 .Wfxh6 0-0-0 12.'it>bl Lf2 13.\Wf4

1 3.lllb5 <j;>bs is safe enough for Black.

We have been following the game Petrelli - Efremov, corr. 2008. Here I propose the improvement:

13 ... a6!?N.., It is useful to prevent the knight from

coming to b5. On the next cum White will have to decide whether or not to snatch the fl-pawn. In either case, Black has fair chances thanks to his bishop pair and active prospects on the queenside.

D) 6.ctJce2

1his move is solid, but does not bring any problems for Black.

1 90 5 .id2

6 .. . hd2t 7.Wlxd2 liJc6 8.f4 White tries to stabil ize the centre and hopes

to make use of the fact that Black's bishop is restricted. However, as we will soon see, Black has dynamic play and the slightly passive bishop is just a temporary problem.

8 ... 0-0 9.lllf3 f6 This is the standard method of creating

counterplay. Apart from hitting White's pawn centre, Black also opens a path for the bishop to emerge on g6 or hS . If anything it is White who has more of a problem with his bishop, which is currently blocked by the knight on e2.

10 .c3 1his move is ambitious, but also rather time­consuming.

I O ... fxeS 1 1 .fxeS This is consistent at least. After 1 1 . lllxeS lllxeS 1 2.dxeS b6+ the bishop will find a way out via b7 or a6. 1 1 .dxeS lllfS+ also leaves Black with the more active position, while White struggles to complete development.

I l . . .id7 l 2.lllf4 cxd4 I 3.cxd4 lllfS+ Black is ahead in development and can exert

heavy pressure against the central pawns as well as along the f-file.

10 ... W!xf6

s i. U.!.� ��•U 7 ru�� �If '#l� 6 -�=�!�' s l!�•fB 'W �--- - :<�M��K�� 4 � i?'O, i?'O, � 3 ·"'=- ·��-r/.: 2 � i� � �Qj� � i� ��r _ _ J., . . . . �=:mr�

' · " � /, /, � a b c d e f g h

l l .g3 cxd4 12.liJexd4 l11e slightly inaccurate 1 2.0-0-0?! was seen

in Recuero Guerra - Santana Montero, Linares 2007. Here the improvement 1 2 . . . d3!N would have forced a concession, for instance: l 3.cxd3 ( 1 3 .iWxd3 lllg4 1 4.lllgS iWhG! 1 5 .lllh3 lllceS ! 6.iWb3 aS+ is hardly an improvement for White.) l 3 . . . lllg4

8 ;i �j_- ��·� 7 � · - • • • 6 B'))• i � • 5 -�-!./, , /�

/

4 • • [�'))· 3 � � � •lZJO 2 � r� �lZJ• w� I - ,�,-��!-:

a b e d e f g h 1 4 .Ele l ( 1 4.lllc3 is met by 1 4 . . . d4 1 5 .llle4 '\We?+ intending . . . eS or . . . llle3.) 1 4 . . . d4t Black keeps some initiative.

Chapter 1 4 - Introduction 1 9 1

13.lbxc6 bxc6 14.l!Jxe5 l!Jg4 15.0-0-0 Perhaps the safest continuation is 1 5 .\Wc3

tllxe5 l 6.\Wxe5 \Wxe5t l 7.fxe5 if5 l 8 .id3 gae8= leading co a drawn rook endgame.

15 ... l!Jxe5 16.fxe5 Wfxe5 Black had equal ized comfortably in Espinosa

Aranda - Yalmana Canto, Burguillos 2009.

E) 6.l!Jf3

into account: 7.ixh6! (7.a3 ixc3 8.ixc3 cxd4 should be satisfactory for Black.) 7 . . . gxh6 8.ib5! \Wa5 (8 . . . cxd4 9.\Wxd4 favours White.) 9.0-0!? (9.®d2 is also playable.) 9 ... ixc3 10.ixc6t bxc6 l l .bxc3 \Wxc3 1 2.ge l� White's initiative fully compensates for the pawn deficit.

I also briefly considered 6 . . . lt'if5, but after 7.a3 .�xc3 8 .ixc3t White's chances are slightly higher.

7.lbxd4 7.tllb5 ixd2t 8 .\Wxd2 0-0 1s equal, as

mentioned by Watson.

8 .ixh6N gxh6 9.ib5 id7 transposes co 8.ib5 below.

8.ib5N has nor yet been played but deserves some attention. White intends to exchange his bishops for the enemy knights, relying on his development advantage and pawn structure. 8 . . . id7 9.ixh6 gxh6 10 .ixc6 bxc6 1 1 .0-0

1 92 5 .id2

9.tllxc6 bxc6 IO . .ixh6 At this point a draw was agreed in Socko

- Barsov, Hastings 2005. I believe Black is at least not worse after recapturing on hG; he has a strong pawn centre and a useful open b-file, while the dark-squared bishop has great potential.

F) 6.a3 Lc3

Now White has tried both Fl) 7.bxc3 and F2) 7.Lc3.

Taking back this way looks rather strange in combination with it.d2 , bur it is not a bad option.

7 . .. tllfS It makes sense to move the knight before

White gets a chance to capture it.

7 ... bG? has been played, but after the simple 8 .ixhG!N gxhG 9.tllf3± White has a structural plus as well as better development. Black is far too slow to make use of the weaknesses on the c-file and the c4-square.

7 . . . tllcG has been the most common move, but here too the novelty 8 J�.xh6!?N can be considered. After 8 . . . gxhG 9 .'1Mi'd2 Wa5 l O.ltJf3 cxd4 1 1 .cxd4 Wxd2t 1 2.<;tixd2 we reach an endgame that is about equal, but perhaps slightly more pleasant for White, who has a somewhat better pawn structure and the stronger bishop. Black should rely on his counterplay on the c-file with . . . id7 followed by . . . :i:k8 and later . . . tlla5.

8.id3 8 .tll f3 should be met in the same way, as

White does not seem to have anything better than transposing with id3 next.

Chapter 1 4 - I ntroduction 193

8 • . . 0-0!N Instead of playing the standard developing

move . . . ctJcG Black first castles in order to get ready for . . . bG and . . . �aG. For this reason the knight should stay on b8 for the time being.

9.lll£3 b6 10.Wfe2 Against other moves Black will carry out his

strategic plan of . . . �aG with counccrplay on the l ight squares.

10 . .. tllc6 Here I suggest reverting to normal

development, as the plan involving . . . a5 to force the bishop exchange looks too weakening and time-consuming.

s 1.m.t.� ��•m 7 :/I���

. . . %� .,Y.wrt 6 , '•l�T�" ,� � � .. , , %�p ��·;.; �/, � : �.�f!'r. 3 tfj ��ml25m y; 2 /

... . �-����In r:u

1 �- . . -� Y/W ... ,,Y,y,,:·�/"""W . . . " ,� - J� - :a:

a b c d e f g h

1 1 .0-0 Vfic7 12.a4 llla5= Black intends . . . ctJc4 with countcrplay on

the light squares. It is worth mentioning chat we should be more than happy to allow the exchange of bishop for knight on c4. Giving up a pawn is a small price to pay for the opening of the a8-h 1 diagonal and the weakening of White's light squares.

F2) 7.ix:c3

lbis seems more consistent with the development of the bishop to d2, and has been the most popular choice.

7 . . . b6 Black supports his centre and prepares

. . . �aG. White has two main options: F21) 8.b4!? and F22) 8.ihSt.

8.ctJf3 has achieved a perfect score for White from three games, but does nothing to oppose Black's plan. 8 . . . �aG 9.�xaG ctJxaG I O.\We2 occurred in Anderson - Young, Dallas 2000, and here Black should have played 1 0 ... ctJb8N with a balanced position.

F21) 8.b4!?

8 .. . Wic7 According to the database chis is the only

move to have been tried so far. I find it to be the most logical continuation as it defends c5 while exerting pressure along the c-file and attacking the centre.

9.lll£3 Opening the queenside is risky, as shown in

the following example: 9.dxc5 bxc5 1 0.ctJf3 cxb4 1 l .�xb4 a5 1 2.�d2 ( 1 2.�dG? \Wc3t 1 3.ctJd2 ctJf5 1 4.�b5t �d7+) 1 2 . . . ctJg4 1 3.�b5t �d7

1 94 5 .id2

s E� -·� �� - ;-- "; � �f� o;; : ��,!;!)' 5 ��- · � • 4 ./,///,- -l;jj� 3 � � .QJ. 2 �- �,��� I ?"fj�--Wirtli '-i

a b c d e f g h 1 4.\We2? ( 1 4.a4N is White's best chance. After 1 4 . . . lLlxe5 1 5 .0-0 �xb5 1 6.axb5 lLlc4 17 .�c3 0-0 1 8 .Ei:el White's strong bishop gives him some compensation for the pawn, although Black must still be at least equal.) I 4 . . . �xb5 I 5.\Wxb5t tLld7 1 6.0-0 0-0 Black was clearly better in Martin - Shaked, Schwarzach 1 997.

8 .i:�.t..m•� �� wit/,,_, , ;��-'WA"'{"&Y. 7 �-% �81 • • �-% . 6 /, , , , , /,-,, , ,/,� ..... . %� 5 D" "m �0�00�W 4 -J�#P�-� 3 rJ '�t ,.�.� 2 •lS m � lS �

�� mvw��ctnM a b c d e f g h

9 . . . ltJf5 Watson proposes 9 . . . cxb4 intending

I 0.�xb4 �a6. Unfortunately White can obtain some advantage with I O.�d2! for instance: I O . . . �a6 (1 O . . . bxa3 I l .�xh6 gxh6 l 2.Elxa3 leaves Black with a damaged pawn structure and a worse position despite being a pawn up for the moment.) l J ..txa6 lLlxa6 1 2.\We2 tLlb8 1 3 .0-0 White has a strong bishop and a serious initiative.

10.dxcS bxc5 1 1 .'!Wd2?!

I l .bxc5N was better, and after l 1 . . .tLld7 l 2.id3 0-0 1 3.0-0 lLlxc5 the position is about equal.

We have been following the game Leviczki -Sebestyen, Budapest 2004. Now Black could have seized the advantage as follows:

F22} 8.�b5t

111is check is a typical response to . . . b6 in the French. White wants to lure the black bishop to d7 in order to avoid the exchange on a6.

Chapter 1 4 - Introduction 1 95

8 ... id7 Black has nothing bener.

9.id3 9.ie2 lllc6 1 0.lllf3 Vlic7 1 1 .0-0 lllf5= is not

dangerous. 'The bishop is needed on d3, where it discourages the black knight from coming to f5 .

9 ... lllc6 10.lllB cxd4 I I .ixd4 lllxd4 12.lllxd4

13.'Wh5t l 3.Vlie2!?N is playable, and after l 3 . . . fxe5

14.Vlixe5 Vlif6! ( 1 4 . . . 0-0 1 5 .0-0-0 makes i t hard for Black to lift the blockade) 1 5 .VlixfG gxf6 we reach a pretty balanced endgame.

13 ... lllf7 14.lllb5 Here I found an improvemenc over the game

Melia - M. Bensdorp, Kusadasi 2006.

I5.tlid6t We7 I6.lllxf7 @xf7 l 6 . . . gxh5 l 7.lllxd8 fxe5 1 8.tt'lxeG ixe6 is

another option leading to an approximately equal ending. White has a somewhat better pawn structure but Black controls the centre.

17.'We2 l 7.Vlif3 ms intending . . . ctfg7 is equal.

17 ... fxe5 18.'Wxe5 'Wf6= White will either have co place his queen

on a less favourable square, or simplify to an endgame where Black has no problems.

Conclusion

5.id2 is a logical move and the most significant alternative co 5 .a3. After my recommendation of 5 ... lllh6 White has tried a number of different moves, and in this chapter we have seen six of the relatively uncommon ones. Ir is hard to offer up any general rules to fit such a variety of pawn structures and position types, but we have seen many cases where Black was able to obtain promising play with the typical r�rench scheme of attacking d4 and e5, especially through timely use of the . . JG pawn lever.

s.id2 6.hh6!?

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.t!lic3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5 . .id2 t!lih6 6.hh6!?

6 ... gxh6 A) 7 . .ib5t B) 7.t!lif3 C) 7.a3 .ia5

Cl) 8 . .ib5t C2) 8.t!lif3 C3) 8.dxc5 d4 9.b4 dxc3 10.bxa5 Wfxa5

C31) 1 1 .t!lie2 C3 2) 1 1 . Wfh5 C33) 1 1 .t!lif3

A) after 7.ib5t B) afccr 7.lt'if3

7 . . . id?!N

C3 1) after 17.:!'ld4?!

198 199 201 202 202 203 204 205 206

1 98 5 Jld2

1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.tllc3 ih4 4.e5 c5 5.id2 tllh6 6.hl6!? gxh6

a b c d e f g h This l ine has only occurred in about twenty

games, but it proved to be quite a challenge and I decided a dedicated chapter was needed. White has taken a principled decision, inflicting permanent structural weaknesses on Black's kingsidc. However, giving away a bishop is a concession in itself, especially since White had previously invested a tempo developing it on d2.

From our starting position there arc three main continuations: A) 7.ih5t, B) 7.tlJf3 and C) 7.a3.

A) 7.ih5t

This offers White quick development, although in my opinion it looks rather illogical to exchange off Black's "weak French bishop".

7 .. . id7!N I found one practical example in which

Black tried 7 . . . <;t>f8. Now in Nuber - Speck, Germany 1 996, White should have played 8 .'Wd2!N when my main line continues as follows: 8 . . . cxd4 9.a3 �d7! (9 . . . dxc3? gives White at least a perpetual, but probably more after 1 o.Wxh6t Wg8 I ! .axb4 cxb2 1 2.!'i:b 1

'Wc7 1 3.llif.1! [ 1 3.'Wg5t=] 1 3 . . . 'Wxc2 1 4.0-0 with a strong initiative.) 1 o .Wxd4 �xc3t I l .'Wxc3 �xb5 l 2.'Wb4t 'it>g7 1 3 .'Wxb5 lllc6 14 .lllf3 'WbG 1 5 .'WxbG axb6 TI1e position is approximately equal, but this whole line is unnecessarily risky for Black and the text move just seems to be stronger all round.

I l .Wg4 l l .'Wd2 is well met by l l . . . 'Wa6!+ preventing

White from castl ing and intending ... Elc8.

Chapter 1 5 - 6 .�xh6! ? 1 99

l 1 ...d4! 12.'1Wxd4 1 2.lLlxd4 lLlxe5 13 .We4 lLlc4t

12 ... '1Wxd4 13.ctJxd4 tllxe5 Black has somewhat better prospects in

the endgame, as his strong bishop is more important than the doubled h-pawns.

B) 7.tllf3

a b c d e f g h

7 . . • 'IWaS!N -n1is move has nor yet been played, bur it has

already been recommended by Warson and is also the top suggestion of Houdini, so it might well pop up in the databases pretty soon.

8.'1Wd2 i!g8 Black uses the doubled h-pawns in a

constructive way. White is temporarily prevented from developing his bishop, and the rook may be able to exert pressure along the fourth rank via the g4-square.

9.g3 This seems l ike an obvious reply. I also

analysed two ocher possibilities:

9.a3 This move does not create any immediate threat, but simply plans l"i:b 1 in order to force Black to take on c3.

9 . . . cxd4 l O.lLlxd4 lLlc6 Black seems to be doing fine here. I ' l l give a few sample l ines.

1 l .�b5 l 1 .lLlb3 �xc3 l 2.bxc3 Wa4 l 3.lLld4 ( 1 3.lLlcS Wa5=) 13 . . . a6 14 . f4 �d7 is equal. 1 1 .lLlxc6 bxc6 1 2.g3 l"i:b8 1 3.�e2 �a6 also looks fine for Black.

1 1 . . .�xc3 1 2.\Wxc3 Wfxc3t 1 3 .bxc3 �d7 14.lLlxc6

1 4.�xcG bxc6 1 5 .g3 c5 l 6.lLlb3 l"i:c8= is mentioned by Warson.

14 . . . bxc6 1 5 .�fl We7

s i: . ... -i:� 7 . �.t� · � · ;, : a }, j � 6 - · · · · �. s IJ • · r� .. 4 .. .. . .. 3 W� Wl9 .,,,,,� :. : ; ; -� � 2 � b � � b � • �. % . . . . % ::'. . . . , ;::. I �� � m�� : ' · ' � L . /. �

a b c d e f g h -ll1is l ine is given by Watson without a

final assessment. 1 would say chat the mutual weaknesses should balance out to approximate equality, bur personally I have more sympathy for the Black position. An easy plan is to break with .. . f6 to obtain a central majority. 111e bishop can be improved via e8-g6 and Black can also use the open b-file for h is rooks.

200 5 .id2

9.l::l:b l ! ? White could also play this move with similar ideas in mind. ll1 is time an unprovoked exchange on c3 will offer White an open file without having wasted time with a2-a3.

9 . . . cxd4 "D1is seems to be the best reply, as it gives Black the option to keep his bishop instead of exchanging on c3.

1 o .tt:Jxd4 tt:Jd7 This looks like the best way to develop, although 1 o . . . tt:Jc6!? can also be considered. llme might follow l 1 .ib5 id7 l 2.ixc6 bxc6 1 3.0-0 8:g6 with a rather messy position.

l l . f4 White can also play the sharper 1 l .a3 when I I . . .ixc3 l 2.bxc3 CDxe5 l 3 .ib5t id7 1 4.ixd?'f CDxd7 1 5 .0-0 leads to an unbalanced position with mutual chances. Black should continue with I 5 . . . CDc5, putting the knight on an active square and defending b7. Black's king will most likely head for the queenside, although in some scenarios . . . 8:g6 followed by . . . Wf8 can be a better way to find safety.

I 1 . . .CDc5 1 2.a3 .�xc3 1 3.Wxc3 Wxc3i" 1 4.bxc3 h5!=

l11e position is about equal although a lot of play remains. Black intends to use his front h-pawn to put pressure on White's g-pawn. Another plan is . . . id7 followed by . . . l::l:c8 to attack White's pawn weaknesses.

8 A �.i.m•m1. m 7 � • m m • m • 6 ' '�'fi·j·�· : ��IP'.�. 3 .. . , , ,���f . /.� �� � ��r�'.'l . . . . . , . . , .. ��·�" · · · · %�.C0 2 A t� A � tfV'i ifV'i � %�% � ��� %L.,J% �L.J%

�m·· - - %

�/,,

.. ,%=£•�

a b c d e f g h

9 ... cxd4 Black could also play the entertammg

9 . . . 8:g4!? as proposed by Watson. I analysed this move and concluded that it should lead to approximate equality, but decided to focus on the text move which seems like a more straightforward route to a balanced position.

IO.tt::lxd4 tt::ld7 1 1 .i.bS 1 I .f4 CDc5 gives roughly equal chances.

1 1 ... a6 12.Ld7t i.xd7 13.0-0 B:g6 This passive move is a necessity. Despite the

inconvenience caused by the weak kingside pawns, Black has strong counterplay on the other flank. The pair of bishops and pressure against c3 are enough to compensate for the structural damage on the kingside.

Chapter 1 5 - 6.£Lxh6!? 20 1

14.liJde2 Acrempcing ro consolidate on the queenside.

Here are a few ocher sample l ines:

1 4.a3 �xc3 1 5 .bxc3 :©:c8 1 6.E:ab l E:xc3! I r i s important chat White does not have time ro cake the b7-pawn, as Black is threatening ro win the queen. 1 7.E:fd l Wc7 ( 1 7 .. . b5?? 1 8 .1"1b3+-) 1 8 .E:xb7 E:cxg3t 1 9 .hxg3 vtfxb7= White has sufficient compensation for che pawn, buc nothing more.

14 .E:fe 1 can be met by l 4 ... h5+± with an interesting position offering chances for both sides. Apart from advancing the pawn to h4, a second idea behind Black's last move is the possible transfer of the bishop via f8 to hG.

14 . . . ibS 15.a4 he2 According to my analysis, chis forcing

continuation should lead to a draw with best play. If Black wishes to keep more tension in the position, then l 5 . . . !c4!? seems like a good option.

16.'1Wxe2 ixc3 17.bxc3 '1Wxc3 18.gabl

a b c d e f g h

I8 . . • gb8! 19.gb3 '1Wd4 20.gfb1 ggs 21 .gxb? gxb? 22.gxb? gxeS 23.'1Wxa6 gel t 24.©g2 '1We4t 25.©h3 'IWfSt 26.©g2 '1We4t=

"l11e game ends in perpetual check.

C) 7.a3

1his is the main continuation.

7 ... ia5 I think it is more important to preserve

the strong dark-squared bishop than to damage White's queenside structure. Besides, exchanging on c3 would help to reinforce White's pawn centre. From this position there are three main moves: Cl) 8.ibSt, C2) 8.ll:if3 and C3) 8.dxcS .

8.b4? occurred in a single game, Riding -M . Knaak, Hamburg 20 1 1 . At this point the simple 8 . . . cxb4N would have been strong, for instance: 9.li:Jb 1 (9.li:Jb5? b3t 1 0.c3 0-0+ intending .. JG is clearly better for Black.) 9 . . . vtfc7 Black has a healthy extra pawn and a solid advantage.

8 .f4?! "l11is slow move was played in ln't Veld -Willemze, Vlissingen 20 I 2. Now instead of exchanging on d4 Black could have caused problems with:

8 . . . vtfbG!N 9.©f2!? I found nothing better for White. 9.b4 cxb4 10.li:Jb5 b3'! l l .©f2 bxc2 l 2.vtfxc2 0-0 followed by . . . liJcG gives Black a clear advantage. Noc only is White a pawn

202 5 .id2

down, his king might also be exposed after a timely . . . f6 break. 9.Ei:bl cxd4 1 0.b4 dxc3 1 1 .bxaS 1We3t 1 2. llle2 lllc6 also favours Black due to his extra pawn.

9 . . . cxd4 1 0 .tlia4 1Wc6 l l .b3 l l .b4 1Wxa4 1 2.bxaS lllc6+

l l . . . �d7 I 2.�d3 1Wc7+

CI) 8.ibSt

8 ... id7 9.ixd7t lbxd7 10.dxcS .L:c3t 1 1 .bxc3

Here Black can improve on the game Houska - Cumbers, West Bromwich 2005 .

I I . . J�g8!N As pointed out by Williams. I checked a few

lines, all of them leading to Black's advantage.

12.g3 After l 2.llle2 Black should continue

1 2 . . . 1Wg5! (not to complicate matters with l 2 . . . Ei:xg2? l 3.lllg3f±) l 3 .g3 1Wxe5 keeping the upper hand.

12 ... 'IWaS 13.'1Wd4 gc8 14.lbe2 1 4.Ei:b 1 b6! l 5 .cxb6 El:c4 l 6.1Wd2 axb6+

14 ... \WxcS 15 .0-0 '\Wxd4 16.cxd4 gxc2 17.gacl gxcl 18.gxcl ©e7

Black's extra pawn gives him excellent winning chances in the endgame. The plan for the next few moves will be . . . Ei:b8 and . . . c;:t>ds .

C2) 8.tlJf3

Less convincing is 8 . . . cxd4 9.1Wxd4 1Wb6 as played in Cardenas - Emrich, corr. 2009, when 1 0 .0-0-0N 1Wxd4 1 I .lllxd4 would have given White a tiny endgame advantage. 'Ihe continuation might be l 1 . . .lllc6 1 2.�bS �d7 1 3.�xc6 bxc6 1 4.llla4 �b6 1 5 .b4 when White

Chapter 1 5 - 6 .ixh6!? 203

has firm control over the dark squares and the liglu-squared bishop has become passive.

9.!�bl 'llc6 10.dxcS Watson points our chat I O .b4?! cxb4 1 ! .'llb5

bxa3t 1 2.c3 a2!+ is no good for White.

10 ... 'IWxcS 1 1 .'IWd.2 d4 12.b4 '1Wxc3 13.bxaS

8 .iU..t.m•m �� 1 - • m m • m • 6 •'llm • m � 5 � m � • 4 L.%_ �ti% .. %m

�-�-� : - - - -; -� : \B � r8,D�ll!DMD d• 'm'.t•li

a b c d e f g h 13 . . . gg8!

This move is a frequent guest after the exchange on h6. It is logical to post che rook on the half-open g-file, especially when it restricts the development of White's bishop.

14.'1Wxc3 dxc3 15 .a6 bxa6 16.�d3 Watson gives 1 6.8'.b3 8'.g4 1 7.8'.xc3 �b7!=

which indeed looks fine for Black.

-n1e text move is a bit more challenging, as White develops actively while protecting the g2-pawn by tactical means.

16 ... gg4! Swinging the rook across the fourth rank is

an idea worth remembering.

! 6 . . . 8'.xg2?! should be avoided due to 17 .�e4 �d7 1 8 .'lld4 'llxd4 1 9.�xg2 8'.c8 20 .. \ke4 when White is an exchange up and has somewhat better chances.

17.0-0 1 7.;gb3 8'.b8 is fine for Black too.

17 ... 'llaS Preventing E&b3 while preparing . . . �b7.

Black's chances are not worse.

C3) 8.dxc5

"01is is the main continuation, which gives Black a choice between pushing the d-pawn and exchanging on c3.

8 .. . d4 8 . . . �xc3t 9.bxc3 \Wa5 I O.\Wd2 'lid? is a

playable alternative but after analysing both options I have chosen to concentrate on the text move.

9.b4 9.�b5tN

"01is has not yet been played, but was suggested by the computer.

9 . . . �d7 1 0.ixd?t \Wxd7 1 l .b4 dxc3 1 2.bxa5 White has managed to lure the queen to d7 so that the pawn on a5 doesn't hang, but Black still has nothing to worry about after:

1 2 . . . 8'.g8! Black's quick development generates a lot of counrerplay and he will soon recapture the temporarily lost pawn. It is worth noting

204 5 .�d2

the influence of the rook along the g-file in many of the following lines.

1 3 .g3 1 3 .tlle2 Elg5! 14 . f4 ( 1 4.0-0 Wxd l 1 5 .Elfxd l Elxe5 1 6.lllxd tllc6 is about equal) l 4 . . . Elxg2 1 5 .lllxd Wc6 l 6.Wd3 tlld7 1 7.0-0-0 lllxc5 1 8.Wc4 Elc8 is fine for Black, whose ideas may include . . . tlld3t.

1 3 . . . WcG 1 4.Wf3 1 4 .tllf3 \We4t 1 5 .We2 should be met by 1 5 . . . Elg4 1 6.h3 Wxe2t 1 7.Wxe2 Ele4"!" 1 8 .Wd3 Ela4= intending . . . tllc6 and . . . 0-0-0 with a balanced game.

l 4 . . . Wxf3 l 5 .tllxf3 lllc6 1 6 .aG bxa6

1 7.©e2 l 7.h3 0-0-0=

1 7 . . . Elg4! 1 8.Elhd l Elc4= Once again the active rook enables Black to

maintain the balance.

9 ... dxc3 IO.bxa5 'l.Wxa5

From here White has tried several moves. TI1is will be our final branch ing point, the main options being C31) l l .ctJe2, C32) l 1 .'l.Wh5 and C33) l 1 .lbf3. Let us briefly check a few minor options:

I I .Wg4 Wxc5 l 2.Wg7? (l 2.tllf3N looks better when I 2 . . . id7 l 3.�.d3 icG 14.0-0 tlld7 leads to mutual chances. Black will castle long with attacking chances on the g-file. The e5-pawn is also a potential target.) I 2 . . . l"i:f8 l 3 .. �d3 .ffi.d7 l 4.tllf3 ic6 1 5 .0-0 llld7 By now it has become clear that the queen excursion to g7 has brought White nothing but trouble. Black was clearly better in Plasman - Van Haastert, Dieren 1 997.

1 1 .WdG llld7 1 2.f4 occurred in Aristotelous -Rodgaard, Andorra la Vella 2009. At this point the correct way to capture the c-pawn would have been:

s E•.t•�- t� 7 �· -�· ·· · 6 � � · �/// � 5 � '#'#Wf!I. _;rf(!f.'$$;.;: ;

L J�'f j�l j�f%. -�� 4 Wt';'; �� fl'.'.._Y ,,�$ 3 �"/ 'w� ' "'m' 'm'"'"' 2 : -"�11l!:i\� %� r;f[j / . . . . .,,,,--$%1.�-0;·/,//.._&Zij.,,///,/ . . . . . /. �� � ����

a b c d e f' g h

1 2 . . . tllxc5!N Black will soon be able to drive the queen away from d6, so there is no need to try and exchange queens. 1 3.tlle2 .�d7 intending . . . 0-0-0. !4 .Wd4 tlla4+ Black keeps a safe position with a healthy extra pawn.

C3 l) l l.ctJe2

With this move White makes no attempt to save the c5-pawn, and instead focuses on picking up the enemy pawn on d.

Chapter 1 5 - 6.ixh6!? 205

1 1 .. .'Wxc5 12.'Wd6 1 2 . f4 id7 1 3 .Wi'd3 ic6 1 4.Wi'xc3 Clld7=

looks fine for Black.

12 ... llJd? 13.Wfxc5 llJxc5 14.llJxc3 Williams claims a white advantage in this

position based on the superior pawn structure. This may be true on the kingside, but on the queenside it's the other way round. Black also benefits from easy development and I think the chances are about equal.

14 ... id? 1 5.ie2 �c8 16.0-0-0 r:ile? 17.i:'!.d4?!

1 7.<j;>b2N would have kept the game balanced.

The text move was played in Leniart - Socko, Tromso 2009. At this point Black has an interesting tactical opportunity based on the undefended knight on c3.

17 ... ic6!N Ironically, the first step involves blocking the

c-filc!

18.�gl llJd?! 19.f4 hg2 Black has at least temporarily won a pawn.

Just as imponantly, he has permanently weakened White's kingside structure so the first player will be struggling to equalize.

C32) 1 1 .'WhS

This time White ignores the queenside pawns and goes after his opponent's weakened kingside.

1 1 ...'WxcS 12.ll'lf3 �d7 13.'Wxh6 Here I would like to deviate from the game

Bartel - Socko, Krakow 2006.

13 • . • �c6N Socko developed his knight on the same

square, but I like the bishop move more. "fhe same improvement was proposed by Williams.

14.'Wg7 '1Wf8

206 5 .i.d2

1 5.'\Wxffit Recreating the queen only leads to problems

for White: I 5.\Wg4?! lLid7 I 6.\Wd4

I 6.\Wf4 could be a slight improvement, but after I 6 . . . \Wg7 I 7.�e2 gg8 I 8 .g3 \Wg4 I 9.\We3 gc8 Black will force a queen exchange with . . . \We4 and enjoy a superior endgame.

1 6 . . . �xf3! Also interesting is I 6 ... \Wc5!? 1 7.\Wxc5 ( 1 7.gb ) \Wxa3+) 1 7 . . . lLixc5 1 8.lLid4 0-0-0 1 9.lLixcG bxcG followed by . . . gd2 with an initiative for Black, but the text move is simple and strong.

1 7.gxf3 \Wc5 1 8.\Wxc5 lLixc5+ Williams evaluates the position as better for

Black, and I agree.

15 ... @xffi

16.tlJd4 ggs 17.0-0-0!? 1 7.f3 �d5 1 8.�f2 lLicG 1 9.lLixcG �xcG

20.i.d3 gds is also about equal.

17 ... hg2 18.ggl i.d5 19.gxgBt @xg8 20.tlJb5 tlJc6 21.f4 gc8

C33) 1 I .tlJf3

The main move was played in Melnikov -

Chapter 1 5 - 6.ixh6!? 207

Arslanov, Sc Petersburg 20 1 I . Here I would like co suggest the novelty:

12 ... liJd7N Forcing White co respond to the attack on

the e5-pawn.

13J�b5 I also considered two bishop moves:

1 3 .ibS?! a6 1 4.�xd?i" ixd7 favours Black, whose bishop will become powerful on c6, especially in conjunction with a rook on the g-file. White might prevent this temporarily by 1 5 .Wd4, but after 1 5 . . . Wxd4 1 6.lllxd4 b5 1 7.0-0 We7 1 8.E\fd l !!hc8 intending . . . !!c4 Black keeps the advantage.

l 3.id3!? is an interesting sacrifice: l 3 . . . lllxe5 14.0-0 lllxd3 1 5 .Wxd3 0-0 Black is two pawns up for the moment, but his weakened kingside gives White reasonable compensation. A sensible plan for Black would be to place the central pawns on f6 and e5, offering space for the bishop and a shelter for the king on h8.

a b c d e f g h

13 ... '1Wxa3 14.i.e2 I 4.id3?! lllc5+

14 ... b6 15.gb3 \Wc5 16.Wfal ib7 17.gxc3 Wfa5 18.Wfxa5 bxa5

a b c d e f g h

19.0-0 l 9.!!c7?! !!b8 20.0-0 <Jid8 2 l .l'!c3 rJJe7 is

somewhat better for Black.

19 ... ci>e7 White has just enough activity to make up

for the missing pawn. A logical conclusion might be:

20.gc7 Lf.3 21 .Lf.3 ghcS 22.gb7 gcbS 23.E!c7 gc8=

With a repetition.

Conclusion

Unsurprisingly, the main theme of chis chapter has been the significance of Black's weak kingside structure balanced against his strong dark-squared bishop and pressure against White's pawn centre. Such strategically unbalanced positions can be tense and hard ro evaluate, but at the end of our investigation I am confidem in Black's chances.

5.i.d2 6.�b5

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.�c3 i.b4 4.e5 c5 s.i.d2 �h6 6.�b5 hd2t 7.Wfxd2

7 . .. 0-0 A) 8.�B B) 8.c3 C) 8.f4 a6! 9.�d6 cxd4 IO.�B f6

CI) I l .�xc8 C2) I l.i.d3

D) 8.dxc5 �d7!? DI) 9.f4?! D2) 9.�B D3) 9.Wic3

C i ) afrcr 1 2.li:lxc5

1 2 . . . 'IWxcSN

C2) afrcr 1 4.Elfc l !

a b c d c f g h

1 4 . . . g5!N

03) after 9.1Wc3

2IO 211 2I2 2I2 213 2I7 2I7 2I8 2I9

2 1 0 5 .�d2

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Cllc3 �b4 4.e5 c5 5.�d2 'llh6 6.'llb5

6 ... Ld2t 7.°1Wxd2 o-o

a b c d e f g h

After a few forced moves we arrive at a crossroads where White can choose between A) 8.€\£3, B) 8.c3, C) 8.f4 and D) 8.dxc5 .

8.0-0-0? has only been played in a single game and is unlikely to be repeated. After the simple 8 . . . lllc6 9.dxc5 '2lxe5 Black was at least slighrly better in Hilverda - Lupor, Dortmund 2005 . An important idea for Black is to play

. . . '2ld7 next in order to put pressure on the weak pawn on c5, which will not be easy for White to defend.

A) 8.€\£3

White aims for fluid development and piece play, but relinquishes the possibil ity of strengthening his centre with f2-f4.

8 . .. a6 Black drives the knight away before

exchanging on d4.

8 . . . '2ld7!?N is a fresh idea that could be considered.

9.ll:ld6 cxd4 10.ll:lxd4 1 O.�d3? is much too optimistic and after

I 0 . . . '2lc6 l l .ctJxc8 l"i:xc8 1 2.0-0 f6 1 3 .l"i:ae l '2lf7 1 4.exf6 �xf6 Black was a healthy pawn up in Leiber - Shaked, Berl in 1 997.

10 . .. f6 I O . . . lllc6 has been played, and also looks

fully viable.

a b c d e f g h

l l .Cllxc8 White is unable to maintain his central

position with l l . f4? fxe5 l 2 .fxe5. In Todeschini - Simoncini, Lugano 20 12 , Black missed the

Chapter 1 6 - 6.llib5 2 1 1

opportunity to play l 2 . . . llig4! when White is unable to defend the pawn on e5.

1 1 ... '1Wxc8 12.exf6 E:xf6 The position is fairly balanced, although I

slightly prefer Black's better development and central control.

B) 8.c3

a b c d e f g h

8 .. . ttJc6 -The immediate 8 . . . cxd4 is also fine, but there

is something to be said for keeping rhe tension.

9.f4 9 .ll'lf3?! works out well for Black after:

9 . . . aG 1 0.llia3 ( 1 0.ct:'ldG? cxd4 l l .cxd4 f6 creates the tactical threat of . . . fxe5 followed by . . . llixe5 winning a pawn. In order to keep the material balance White is now forced to play l 2.llixc8 Ei:xc8 bur the troubles remain and Black has a significant plus.) 1 O . . . cxd4 l l .cxd4 fG+ Ahlberg - Hintze, Goch 2005. White is behind in development and will struggle to support his centre.

9 ... cxd4 10.cxd4 1 O.llixd4N has yet to be tested. I suggest

1 0 .. .fG l 1 .ll'lgf3 fxe5 1 2.llixcG bxcG 1 3.llixeS '\WbG 14.0-0-0 ct:'lf7 1 5 .Ei:e l c5 with interesting play and good chances for Black.

8 .i�.t� ��*� � %,,_j �--3 ··� 7 � , _ _,_,_, 6 -�- · - � � � m�£--- - - -5 m�U i t� B 4 n w� w� m 3 ·=· ,'•::•: 2 8 �� � - 8 �� �ffir�L--��}-- - -\f#% l-�ii%o/if� f� - � £ �; �

a b c d e f g h

10 . . . tlif5! An active move with several purposes. Black

creates the threat of . . . '\Wh4t and at the same time protects the d6-square, thus preparing to kick the enemy knight away with . . . a6.

l I.tlif3 -Ibis seems l ike an automatic choice and

is indeed the only move to have been tested. Nevertheless, White could consider the following alternative: l l .id3!?N '\Wh4t ( l l . . .ct:'lfxd4 1 2.ll'lxd4 llixd4 1 3 .ixh7t ©xh7 1 4.'\Wxd4 id7 is equal according to the computer, but White has some potential for a positional bind as well as attacking chances on the kingside.) 1 2.g3 ct:'lxg3 1 3 .'\Wf2

s E�.i.� ���� � � � --� %% 7 �1 · • • • tl i 6 _IJ)_ i_ • 5 .lt:J. i t� • 4 • � � �� 3 � .· %·��Lj.� j

2 ?}7twrr��W1t·· · · ·f9 , , LJ �. L .; ;:: , � I ?,�� � '?iA JR Fi' :� � ?� i'.2_}· ,§

a b c d e f g h

l 3 . . . ct:'lb4! A strong intermediate move. 1 4.ib 1 ct:'lf5 l 5.ixf5 '\Wxfzt 1 6. Wxf2 exf5 Black's extra pawn secures a plus in the endgame, although

2 1 2 5 .�d2

White does have some compensation in the form of a better pawn structure and the dG­outpost for his knight.

1 1 ...a6 12.lLid id? 1 2 . . . lt:lh4!? looks interesting but the text

move works fine.

8 .i� � ��·� 1 a!a't•••' 6 iBlj)Bi� m s m Bi Blj)R 4 m n n�m 3 m � %•�m ��,�/' . . . ;,,, "; �� ��,� 2 jpJi�fli

a b c d e f g h

13.g3!?N 1 3.�d3 lt:lcxd4 14.lt:lxd4 lt:lxd4 1 5 .�xh?i"

©xh7 1 G.\Wxd4 \Wh4i" 1 7.g3 \Wh3 favoured Black slightly in Bliznyuk - De Reu, email 1 997. I decided to check the text move as an attempt to prepare the bishop's development.

13 ... Wb6 14J;d1 h5! Securing the position of the knight on f5 .

I prefer Black as be is ahead in development, with pressure against White's centre and counterplay on the queenside.

C) 8.f4

1his has been a relatively popular choice in recent years, but it turns out to be slightly risky for White.

8 ... a6! 8 . . . lt:lcG is playable, but has the disadvantage

of allowing 9.dxc5. 1his transposes to a position more commonly reached via the move order 8.dxc5 lllcG 9 .f4 which falls outside our

repertoire; on page 2 1 7 you can see I have instead recommended 8 . . . lt:ld7 in response to 8.dxc5 .

a b c d e f g 11 9.lLid6 cxd4

Having driven the knight away, Black hacks away at the enemy centre.

10. ll:i f.3 f6 Black continues with the same policy.

White can react with either Cl) 1 1 .lLixcB or C2} l I .id3.

Cl) 1 1 .lLixcB

8 .1��� ;ar•m 7 ., . :.,, j-� . . Ji: 6 • m m • m %� s aJlafO "a 4 - - � -

3 ·=· ,·�·= 2 l4fl�llli�"'�Vl

r� m ���mM a b c d e f g h

At this point Black can fight for the advantage, as long as he stops and thinks before automatically reaching for the queen.

Chapter 1 6 - 6 .Clib5 2 1 3

1 1 ...fxeS! 1 1 . . . �xcS l 2 .exf6 :8:xf6 1 3 .0-0-0 is equal.

12.lLJxeS This was White's choice in the one game I

found.

White has problems after the other capture too : 1 2.fXeSN �xc8 13 .�d.3 ( 1 3 .lllxd4 ctJc6 1 4 .0-0-0 ct:Jg4 1 5 .:8:e l ctJf2 1 6.:§gl ctJe4 l 7.ctJxc6 �xc6 l 8 .�e3 :§f2 1 9.�d.3 ctJc5 gives Black a strong initiative and attacking chances.)

12 . . . W'xcSN 'l11ere is no reason to refrain from the

simple capture. Black preferred 12 . . . ctJfS in Marjusaari - Franssila, Jyvaskyla 20 1 2, but his advantage would have evaporated had White played 1 3 .�d3 intending to exchange on f5 .

13.g3 lllc6 14.lllf3 eS! 15 .lLJxeS 1 5 .0-0-0 exf4 1 6.gxf4 ( 1 6.ctJxd4 f3!+)

1 6 . . . ctJfS Black is somewhat better being a pawn up for the moment and controlling a lot of important squares.

15 ... lLJxeS 16.fxeS W'c7 17.W'xd4 1 7.0-0-0 ctJf5 1 8.:8:c l �b6+

17 ... W'xc2 18.�d3 W'c6 White can probably hold this position but

he is not completely out of the woods.

C2) 1 1 .�d3

1 1 ... lllc6 12.0-0 lLJg4 I favour this ambitious approach.

I also checked: 12 . . . fXeS 1 3 .fXeS l2:Jxe5 ( l 3 . . . :8:xf3! ? should be just good enough to maintain the balance, but nothing more.)

214 5 .�d2

1 4.lLlxe5 :ihfl t ( 1 4 . . . Wxd6N is another option which may transpose but also offers some independent options for both sides: 1 5 J'hf8·j· Wxf8 1 6.i:l:fl [ 1 6.Wg5!?J 1 6 . . . We7 [ 1 6 . . . Wd6 transposes co 1 4 . . . i:l:xfl t] 1 7.Wa5! White has a strong initiative for che two pawns.) 1 5.i:l:xfl Wxd6 1 6.Wg5 White is two pawns down at the moment, but he has adequate compensation in view of his development advantage, better piece coordination and control over the important e5-square.

After the text move both Williams and Watson claim an advantage for Black without showing any further moves. While I also believe in the soundness of Black's position, I found chis co be che point where things really start to gee critical.

8 i.� j_� ��·� 1 nf• '• '-' 6 , � lj)mr�� � 5 .�.l'd "•� � �-%' �n�--� 4 � �� [�lj)� 3 m RilRlZJR 2 � � � � - � � ��r . . . . �mL.Jml�t- . . %

a b c d e f g h

13.°1We2! Black needs to be careful here as White has

some strong tactical resources. 1he following alternatives are inferior:

l 3.lLlxc8?! l'!xc8 1 4.:i!fe l ? White was already in trouble and chis only makes things worse. 1 4 . . . fxe5 1 5 .fxe5 Now in Pohjosmaki -Saharinen, corr. 2006, Black's simplest route co a big advantage would have been:

8 � ;i � ��·� 7 -· · u �· 6 i U'S)8. i 8. � s . 8. i D 8. 4 U • U'S)8. 3 .. -�-�� 2

2i � 2i B � 2i f!:. !.�i.f' �B_L .��.-�. �' � - � � - �� �{ a b e d e f g h

1 5 . . . g6!N In che game Black sacrificed the exchange of f3 and eventually won, bur the text move is more convincing. Black defends against lLlg5 ideas and remains a pawn up with a beccer position and an additional target on e5.

1 3.l'!ae 1 ?! fxe5 1 4.fxe5 occurred in Clawiccer -Lu, Los Angeles 20 1 1 . Here Black can borrow the same idea as above:

.. , , ,,, , , � � ,�,,�.�,, 6 i 8.'i)� i - � 5 .. A?i.lfi D ' %. .. r:.%. 4 .. • -'i)� 3 ·���-•�n�-� 2 r&tJili��-,1&

a b c d e f g h 1 4 . . . g6!N (1he game continuation of 14 . . . lLlgxe5 is less convincing due to 1 5 .lLlxe5 l'!xfl t 1 6.i:l:xfl !N, for instance 1 6 ... lLlxe5 1 7.We2 lLlxd3 1 8.lLlf7 Wh4! 1 9.cxd3 �d7 20.We5&; when White has real compensation and Black's extra pawns are not having much of an effect on the game.) l 5 .lLlxc8 l'!xc8 1 6.h3 lLle3 1 7.l'!f2 Wb6 1 8.c3 lLlc4 1 9.�xc4 dxc3 20.bxc3 dxc4 2 1 .Wd6 l'!ce8 Black keeps an extra pawn and the advantage.

Chapter 1 6 - 6.lllb5 2 1 5

14,gfel! 111e most accurate, for reasons chat will

become clear when we compare the other rook move.

1 4.f\f2 Here I was able to improve on the game Bapple - Siegfried, corr. 20 1 1 , by using a now familiar device:

14 ... fxeSN 1 5 .fxeS g6! Black's chances arc higher, as shown by the following lines.

1 6.ll'lxd4 1 6.f\e l Elxf3! 1 7.gxf3 ( l 7.\Wxf3 ll'lxe5 1 8.'1Wg3 \Wxd6 1 9.c3 ll'l3c4+) 17 . . . ll'lxe5

1 8 .ll'lxc8 !!xc8 19 . f4 ll'l5g4 20.!!g2 (20.Elf3 \Wh4 2 1 .h3 c5! 22.hxg4 \Wxg4t 23 .Wh2 Wh4t 24.Wgl c4+) 20 ... ll'lxg2 2 1 .Wxe6t Wg7 22.Wxg2 ll'lc3t 23.Wg3 :gc6 24.\WeSt \Wf6+ intending . . . Ele6.

l 6 . . . !!xf2 1 7. W xf2 l 7.\Wxc3 Elf8+

17 ... ll'lxcS l 8.Wxc3 l 8 .ll'lxc8 ll'l 5g4 l 9.iWg3 !!xc8 (11me is also l 9 . . . e5!? 20.ll'lb3 :gxc8 2 1 .h3 Wb6 22.Wh 1 e4 23.hxg4 exd3 24.cxd3 !!f8 when Black is somewhat better thanks to his superior pawn structure and safer king.) 20.ie2 Wb6 2 1 .ixg4 ll'lf5 22.ixfS \Wxd4t 23.Wh l exf5 Black keeps an extra pawn although White has chances to hold.

1 8 ... \Wxd6 1 9.Wg3 ll'lc4 1 9 . . . ll'lf7 20.ixg6 Wxg3 2 1 .ixf7t Wxf7 22.hxg3 h5 intending . . We7 and . . . id7-e8 is also favourable for Black.

20.ixc4 Wxg3 2 1 .hxg3 dxc4+ White remains a pawn down in the endgame

alchough he has some chances for counterplay on the dark squares.

s .iB.t� ��--7 m lB"·"�m ,, . , ,Y.� l 6 •m'S)w•• m 5 � � ·� � 4 �.�. ,�. 3 m •��l:l)m 2 8 � 8 ·�-8�

�� � �� m ;, , • • • Y. � ; • • . . • Y. /,, . • • /, a b c d e f g h

14 ... g5!N A typically French move, giving everything

for che centre. From here my main line leads co a forced draw.

I considered a few other possibilities buc found nothing bcccer for Black. Here is a

2 1 6 5 .id2

fragment of my analysis showing a few relevant ideas: 1 4 ... fxc5 1 5 .fxc5 li'lxc5N

I 5 . . . g6? docs not work here on account of I 6 .li'lxd4±. TI1is is one of the main reasons why White should move the rook to c I instead of f2 in this line. I 5 .. . Wfb6 was Black's choice in Kuosa -Saharinen, corr. 2007. TI1is move seems playable, but generally I would not recommend leaving the kingsidc unprotected in this kind of position. ! 6.lLig5!?N is one interesting idea while the game continuation of 1 6. Wh I also offers interesting play for White.

I 6.lt'ixc5 Wf xd6 1 7 .Wfh5 h6

8 �.�.�� .��-� 7 � · � �

� 6 'i��/%//%�0 ·Z�L /� 5 �.� •.• /.&}�.Vi

h''"";;;;. )���t,., . . . / . . . . . . ,,w. ,/f$;'/j;(,f}, � 0lt �· � : �P{���"1��;�@,

2 '�N�0��fJt i%7t� /-�if{;:/%��; · ;'if�w;.J/ · · · · / ?m � �� �i a b c d e f g h

1 8 .c3! id7 1 9 .li'lxd7 I 9.cxd4?! lt'if5 favours Black slighrly, although White's control over e5 gives him a degree of compensation for the pawn.

l 9 . . . Wfxd7 20.\Wg6 e5 2 1 .Wfh7t ©f7 22J�xe3 22.Wf g6t Wg8= could be an immediate draw.

22 . . . dxe3 23.8:fl i" From here both 23 . . . We7 and 23 . . . Wc6 may

lead to any number of perpetual checks. This is all fine in theory, but I prefer the route seen in the main line.

1 5.ll:ixd4 1 5 .ixh7t Wxh7 ! 6.lLlxd4 gxf4 just

transposes.

15 . . . gxf4

a b c d e f g h

16.�xh7t! Less accurate is:

i 6.\Wh5?! \We7 l 7.4'Jxc6 bxc6 I 8.Wfh4 1 8 .lLie8!? looks nice but Black can defuse the attack: l 8 .. .f5 l 9.li'lf6"!" ©h8 20.Wfh6 tllg4 2 1 .lLlxg4 fxg4 22.ixh7 \Wa7t 23.©h l Wfg7 24.1.Wxg?t ©xg7 25 .id3 ©h6!+ Black has a positional advantage in the endgame.

a b c d e f g h

1 8 . . . Wfg7 1 9 .8:xe3 fxc3 20.exfG l!xfG 2 1 .lt'ic8 8:h6 22.\Wd8 ib7 23.Wfxa8 ixa8 24.lt'ixg7 ©xg7 25 .ixaG c5f-

Black's position is to be preferred. lhe bishop on a8 is blocking the passed a-pawn and after . . . c5 and . . . d4 it will exert a strong influence on the long diagonal.

16 ... 'it>xh7 17.Wh5t ©g7

Chapter 1 6 - 6.Clib5 2 1 7

a b c d e f g h

1s.eixc6 'lhe immediate I 8 .Elxe3 also leads to a draw.

1 8 ... bxc6 19.gxe3 fxe3 20.gfl!? A final attempt to play for a win.

20.Wg4"1 'itih8 2 1 .Wh5"1 is an immediate draw; but note that White cannot play 2 1 .Ei:fl ?? here as 2 1 . . .Ei:a?! repels the attack.

20 ... e2! ·n1e only move, bm good enough.

m C' ' ; r � m � ,�,�.��� 6 !�Tm!• '� � �, , , , , ; /: , , , , % � s m m 1. � m°if 4 m m m m 3 m m m m 2 � � � m • m � � i - � �M� � � � /,, , /.

a b c d e f g h

21 .Wl'g4t There is little point in going for 2 1 .Wxe2 f5

22.Wh5 \WbGt 23.<iih l We3 24.Ci:JeSi" Elxe8 25 .®xe8 Wxe5 26.\We?"I when White has a draw at best.

21. .. ©hs 22.Wl'hSt= Once again 22.Wxe2?? Ela?! wins for Black,

bur after the text move it is j ust a draw.

0) 8.dxc5

a b c d e f g h

This is the main move. White opens rhe position at once and receives an outpost for his knights on d4. 111e drawback, of course, is rhat the e5-pawn loses its protection.

8 .. . llld7!? ll1is move has not been as common as

8 . . . Ci:JcG, but it has scored well and seems to be an excellent choice. White has three main replies: 01) 9.f4?!, 02) 9.lllf3 and 03) 9.Wl'c3.

01) 9.f4?!

a b c d e f g h

2 1 8 5 .�d2

This has been White's most frequent reply but it weakens White's position, especially the e4-square.

9 .. . ctJxc5 Most games have continued with 9 .. .f6, but

i t is more promising for Black to rake back the c-pawn while bringing the knight closer to e4.

10.ctJc3N 1his seems like White's best try.

After 1 0.0-0-0 l2ie4 1 1 .\We l \Wb6 Black already had a significant advantage in Real -Lagaert, Houffalize 20 1 1 .

White is also not helped by 1 O.lt:Jd6N V�b6 1 1 .0-0-0 f6 1 2.l2if3 l2ig4!+ when Black already threatens . . . l2if2.

a b c d e f g h

10 ... b5! A strong sacrifice, intending ... b4 to get

control of the e4-square. Black is ahead in development and should be happy to give up a pawn to open lines.

l 1 .hb5 E:b8 12.lllf3 ctJe4 13.lllxe4 1 3.\Wd3? \Wb6-+

13 ... dxe4 14.llld4 Wfb6 15.E:dl

a b c d e f g h

1 5 ... ctJfS! Black continues to play dynamically.

16.ctJxfS exf5 17.a4 a6 18.ie2 Wfxb2 19.0-0 �e6

Black has a significant structural advantage; the protected passed pawn on e4 is an important asset, while the weaknesses on c2 and a4 could drop at any moment.

02) 9.lllf3

9 .. . lllxc5 IO.id3 �d7 l l .ctJbd4 Here I have an improvement over Black's

play in Gozzol i - Hintze, I nternet 2003.

Chapter 1 6 - 6.ClibS 2 19

1 1 ... 1Wb6N 12.0-0-0 After 1 2.0-0?! \Wxb2+ White simply lacks

the necessary compensation for the sacrificed pawn.

1 2.ctJb3 can be met by 1 2 . . . ctJe4! 1 3 .\We2 a5 with active play for Black.

12 ... gacS The opposite-sided cascling has resulted in a

sharp baccle with mutual chances.

13.<iibl f5 In such positions it is important for Black

to remember chis method (along with .. . f6) of obtaining breaching space on the kingside.

l 4.exf6 lllxd3 l 4 . . . i:!xf6!? is worth considering. 'This keeps

Black's kingside more secure at che expense of some central control.

1 5.1Wxd3 gxf6 16.lllh4

16 . . . gc4! An important move, eyeing both of the

enemy knights. -n1e following l ine is by no means forced, but the position is balanced and a forced draw would be one logical conclusion to the game.

17.1Wg3t <iih8 18.lllg6t hxg6 19.1Wxg6 gxd4 zo.gxd4 1!Nxd4 21 .1Wxh6t <±igs 22.1Wg6t=

With perpetual check.

D3) 9.1Wc3

8 i. � j_� ��·� � L.,% , . . . ,Y. � 1 �1 .t. m�U .t. ti .t. 6 m m .1. S � ��0�0�. : :i���:-:-� !H?�·Df� • "•�•.t•i

a b c d e f g h

'fois time White cries to hang on to the c5-and e5-pawns. On the ocher hand, chis costs valuable time and allows Black co make a gambit out of it.

9 ... f6!N 'This reveals one of the points beh ind putting

the knight on d7 instead of cG. Now the knight will find a way out on fG and become active on the kingside.

I once lost with 9 . . . aG in a blitz game against Landa, but the text move is a significant improvement.

10.exf6 lt:\xf6 l l .�d3 e5 12.0-0-0 1We7! 1 2 . . . ctJf7?! looks natural, but the compmer's

suggestion l 3 . f4! is problematic. My main l ine cont inues l 3 ... e4 l 4.�e2 \We7 (l 4 ... .lild7 l 5.g4!) l 5 .ctJh3 .lild7 1 6.g4! and White grabs the initiative.

13.<iibl 1 3 .ctJdG bG! i s good for Black.

220 5 .id2

14 ... e4 15.ie2 l 5J�.b5?! b6!+

a b c d e f g h

1 5 ... b6! 16.c6! 1Mfxd6 17.cxd? 1Mfxd7= Black's position is more active at the

moment, but this is compensated by the fact that White has a bishop versus a knight, so the chances should be roughly balanced.

Conclusion

We have reached the end of our discussion of the 5 .�d2 tt:lh6 variation, with the present chapter concentrating on the most popular option of 6.tt:lb5. I t is noteworthy that Black is first to castle in this variation, and we have seen several lines where he was able to open the position and utilize his lead in development to good effect. I found no major problems for Black in any of the l ines examined here; the general pattern seems to be that a timely . . . f6 will offer the second player good counterplay in the centre.

7th Move Options a b c d c f g h

7.id3 and 7.h4

Variation Index l.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lDc3 �b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3

6 ... lDe7 A) 7.�d3 B) 7.h4 '!Was 8.�d2 '!Wa4

Bl) 9.�bl B2) 9.'!Wbl B3) 9.h5 b6

B31) 10.�h4 B32) 10.h6 gxh6!N 1 1 .hh6 �a6 12.ha6 lDxa6

B321) 13.lDf3 B322) 13.�gS

A) afrer 12 .�h3 B3 1 ) afrcr 1 2.Wxfl B32) after I O.h6

a h c d c f g h 1 2 . . . cxd4N 1 2. . .Wfc4t!?N

222 225 226 228 229 229 230 231 232

222 7th Move Options

1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.llJc3 J.b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 Finally we come to the move that leads us to

the most important l ines of the Winawer.

5 . .. .L:c3t 111is is the main l ine. 5 . . . ia5 is the most

important alternative but I will say no more about it here.

6.bxc3 llJe7

a b c d e f g 11 111is will be the starting position for the

present chapter and indeed the rest of the book. In this chapter we will analyse a couple of sidelines in A) 7.J.d3 and B) 7.h4, but before doing so, I will summarize White's other options.

7.lllf3 is an important move which can be found in Chapter 1 8 beginning on page 235.

7 .a4 is closely related to 7 .lllf3 and the two moves often transpose. However, due to some move order technicalities, my coverage of 7.a4 ended up spanning five chapters. Coverage of this move begins on page 2 5 1 .

Finally, the big main l ine is o f course 7.'®g4. l11is move requires special attention and will be covered in Volume 2.

A) 7.J.d3

This move is unusual though fully playable. White develops a piece and keeps the option of moving queen out to g4 on the next move.

7 .. . Was Initiating a thematic queen manoeuvre. The

plan works nicely, although there are several playable alternatives including 7 . . . lllbcG, 7 . . . 'Wc7 and 7 . . . hG!?N.

s.J.d2 Wa4

i. �.i.� ·� �� s wi(·:.(� ���w�'--&·Y, 7 ;cAz A m :-2!: A ;cAz A 6 >'. . "m "m», . .... . . Y.m s m � · � m 4 �m n m m 3 � ��m m 2 L.Y.m·�Y.��:�

�� �-;;;�-- - -�di ?.i . . .h � '§ff �� :;, . . • a b c d e f g h

lnis is the typical follow-up. 111e queen blockades the a3-pawn while stepping away from the gaze of the bishop on d2. Another point is that the d4-pawn comes under fire.

I would like to make a few comments about the blocked structure that arises after 8 . . . c4. Most of the time I would not recommend entering such a position unless the white a-pawn is securely blocked on a3. After 9 .ie2 'Wa4 the pawn does indeed seem to be blocked, but the queen tends to be the wrong piece in the right place for this mission. I t's also worth pointing our that in the distant future White may even be able to break this blockade by the ingenious knight manoeuvre via d l -b2, after which the a-pawn can be pushed. Achieving

Chapter 1 7 - 7 .id3 and 7.h4 223

a3-a4 is often a key plan for White in Winawer l ines where . . . c4 is played. The main purpose is to make the a3-square available for the dark­squared bishop, and sometimes the a4-a5 lever can be used to open the queenside.

9.llif3 This has been che most common move buc ic

is pretty harmless.

One ocher idea is: 9.dxc5

l11is method of opening the position is not uncommon in the Winawer. White improves che scope of his bishops bur weakens his pawn structure.

9 . . . liid7 1 0.liif3 1 O.�b 1 !?N should be mec by 1 O . . . a6! to defend che b5-square, followed by similar play as in che line below.

1 0 . . . liixc5 l I .liid4 0-0 1 2.0-0 id?

s x• • J.�•� 7 �� i�..tt11 1. •'i · ;•:,:&·� : 1�> YJ� ��-� 3 Wf!1R�t!lI���

?. J r � � � 2 - � � �� � �� �:r �ii•M m , y � ?%* / . . /.

a b c d e f g h 1 3 .®h5!?N

-The strange-looking 1 3 .'Wb 1 was played in Rocha - Socko, Bacumi 1 999. Here I suggest 1 3 . . . �acSN l 4.'Wb4 b6 preparing . . . liic6 when Black is fine.

l 3 ... liixd3 l 4.cxd3 liic6= The ensuing position with opposite-coloured

bishops is equal. Black should be slighcly careful on che kingside, bur a timely .. .f6 or ... f5 should enable him co defend.

9 . . . b6 Exchanging the 'French bishop' on a6 is

the most logical plan, especially as White has already spent a tempo moving his bishop to d3.

I O.�e3 liid7 l 1 .liig5 h6 1 2.®h5 g6 1 3 .\Wh3 occurred in Romanishin - Uhlmann, Tallinn 1 977. Here a logical improvement is:

s E�..t�·� �� 7 � %•'"''-� �

6 / %���. ;�!� • �:r'?f"; j;i/% ;:"'0,

: ,.�u&�UJ:• 3 i?� i?K( � �� ��· 'lllfi /0% �L_S:: � OO � §' 2 '· · . %-�% •.. · "w� �W!J �· · · ·� ���(//}·· · · %�% . . . . � f� � �; . M

a b c d e f g h 1 3 . . . �a6N 1 4.0-0 �xd3 1 5 .cxd3 �c8 I prefer Black, who has a srrategically fine position with good control over the light squares. Having the king in the centre is not really a problem here, since there is no way for White to attack it. If allowed, Black might play . . . c4 next in order co create an outpost on c4 and apply pressure

224 7th Move Options

against the pawn on c3 . l 6.dxc5 is a logical way to avoid this idea while attempting to open the position, but after l 6 . . . ll:lxc5 Black's position remains slightly more comfortable.

10 ... h6 l l .1Mfh5 l ! .tt:lf3? is simply a loss of time since . . . h6

is a useful move for Black. l I . . .ia6 1 2.0-0 occurred in Duda - Cheng, Kerner 2009, and now after the simple 1 2 . . . 0-0N Black is slightly better, with a solid position and good control over the l ight squares.

l l. .. g6 12.1Mfh3 I found a nice illustrative game where Black

convincingly refuted an unsound attack: l 2.\Wh4 tt:ld7!

Guarding against tt:lxf7 followed by \Wf6t. 1 3.c4?!

Only Black benefits from the opening of the centre here. White should try a quieter approach, although in that case Black will just play . . . ia6 with a comfortable edge thanks to his l ight-square control.

1 3 . . . ia6 1 4 .cxd5 1 4.dxc5 !xc4 1 5 .tt:le4! is a better try, but after 1 5 ... dxe4 1 6.\Wxe4 gc8 1 7.\Wxc4 \Wxc4 l 8.!xc4 gxc5 Black wins the e5-pawn and keeps some advantage.

1 4 . . . ixd3

l 5.cxd3 l 5 .tt:lxf7!? is tricky but Black can keep things under control with: l 5 ... tt:lf5! l 6.tt:Jd6t Wf8

l 7.tt:lxf5 ixf5 1 8.dxe6 «�.xe6 1 9.ixh6t We8!+ Now that things have calmed down, White's counterplay turns out to be insufficient.

1 5 . . . tt:lf5 1 6.\W e4 Or 1 6.\Wh3 \Wxd4 1 7.0-0 \Wxe5+ intending . . . hxg5.

1 6 . . . \Wxd4 1 7.dxeG 1 7.0-0 exd5-+ is hopeless, so White goes for broke.

s E� ..... �� 7 � ·lj]·· -6 � � � - · � s � · · "� �d�zf· , � " . . . . % %. .. % ', . . . . . : � �iY� � : ��-������ 2 ( %���,��,� ��- · ·"�L %&i

a b c d e f g h 1 7 . . . \Wxa l t 1 8.We2 tt:Jd4t 1 9.We3 \Wxh l 20.\Wxa8t We7

Both sides have made double rook sacrifices, but White's king is the one that ends up in the fire.

2 1 .\Wxh8 2 1 .\Wd5 fxeG 22.tt:lxeG tt:lxeG 23.\Wd6t Wd8 24.\WxeG \Wxg2-+

2 l . . . \Wxg2 22.exd7 \Wxg5t 23.f4 \Wgl t 0-1 Redolfi - Eliskases, San Nicolas 1 957.

Chaprer 1 7 - 7.id3 and 7.h4 225

Ler us rerurn ro the main l ine, as played in Lee - Manvelyan, San Francisco 2008. Here Black could have obtained the becrer chances with:

13.Wfh4 l 3.cxd4 ia6+ gives Black firm control on

the l ight squares. 'The plan is ro exchange bishops and play . . . lLlbc6, while White must worry about his queenside weaknesses.

13 ... tLld7! Once again we should nor forget abour the

rhreat of lLlxf7 followed by 'Wf6t.

14.tLlf3 ia6 1 5.tLlxd4 hd3 16.cxd3 Wfa6

17.Wfg3 In rhe evenr of l 7.©e2?! rhe tactics resulting

from l 7 ... lLixe5! work our well for Black: 1 8 .'Wf6 'Wxd3t 1 9.©e l ( 1 9 .©d l ? lllc4-+) 1 9 . . . 'We4t 20 .©d l :gh7 2 1 . f3

17 .. . Cllc5 1 8.©e2 tLif5 19.tiJxf5 exf5!:f: Securing a fine blockading square on e6 for

the knight. Black holds an obvious positional advantage.

B) 7.h4

a b c d e f g h

lbough my own experience on this move is l imired, it is an imporranr option whose ideas are well known. I have only had the present position over the board twice, once from each

226 7th Move Options

side, resulting in two draws. However, the popularity of chis particular move has increased rapidly in recent years. After having studied and defended against i t in the 20 1 2 Olympiad in Istanbul, I am aware of how dangerous it can be.

White has a simple but efficient plan of advancing the h-pawn to h5 and lacer h6 if allowed, in order to create weaknesses on Black's kingside. Another important point is chat White will now be able to develop his king's rook via h3 or h4 in order co support the centre and lacer attack along the g-file.

7 • • • WlaS Many ocher moves have been cried, but I

have decided co recommend a straightforward and familiar plan involving putting the queen on a4 followed by . . . b6 and . . . i.a6, quickly exchanging the light-squared bishops. 'TI1is exchange is one of the most central ideas in the entire Winawcr system and gives Black a long­term strategic advantage on the light squares.

8 . .id2 Wfa4 I t is worth mentioning char 8 . . . cxd4

9.cxd4 \Wa4 can be met by 1 0.h5! \Wxd4?! ( I O . . . 'Libc6!?) l l . ctJf3 \We4"t l 2.i.e2 'Df5 Almasi - Vallejo Pons, Beijing 201 1 , and now 1 3. 'it>fl !N b6 l 4 .i.b5"t <�d7 l 5.i.d3� would have been promising for White.

From chis position White has three main cries: Bl) 9.iibl , B2) 9.Wfhl and B3) 9.h5.

9.'Df3 will almost certainly reach a position discussed under the move order 9.h5 b6 1 0.ctJf3 <�a6. Sec variation B3 on page 229.

Bl) 9.�bl

a b c d e f g h

This is a typical attempt to disturb Black's plans of playing . . . b6 and . . . i.a6. The drawback is of course chat i t leaves the a3-pawn unprotected.

9 . . . \Wxa3 Taking the pawn immediately seems like the

simplest solution, although it does give White the option of forcing a repetition with l::1a l and l'!b 1 during the next few moves.

If Black is determined not to allow a quick draw he may consider 9 . . . 'Libc6, but after 1 0.ctJf3 White's position seems slightly favourable. Now 1 0 ... c4N looks best ( I O . . . \Wxa3?! is a bit too greedy) , when Black is solid but lacks counterplay with the centre closed. White should eventually be able to build up an initiative on the kingside. I r's also worth repeating an earlier point char the queen on a4 docs not guarantee a permanent blockade on the queenside, because White has the long-

Chapter 1 7 - 7 .�d3 and 7 .h4 227

term possibility of transferring his knight via d 1 to b2. Lacer White can play f2-f4 and activate his bishop using the a3-square.

a b c d e f g h

10J�h3 This was White's choice in the one game I

found on the database. I checked a few ocher possibilities as well:

1 0 .i:'la l N '1Wb2 1 l .dxc5 l2Jd7 1 2 .l2Jf3 l1.'ixc5 is fine for Black, and White should start chinking about forcing a draw with 1 3.i:'lb 1 and E:a 1 before it's too lace.

1 0.h5N h6 l l .l2Jf3 1 1 .E:a 1 can still force a draw.

l l .. .'1¥la5 Black gees away with an extra pawn, although White has compensation. A logical continuation is:

1 2.1"1h3 l 2.E:b5?! only complicates matters for Whice: 12 . . . '1Wd8 1 3.dxc5 (Afcer 1 3 .E:xc5? �cl? followed by . . . b6 the rook is gening trapped.) 1 3 . . . ti:Jd? Black obcains good councerplay againsc the vulnerable pawns on c5 and e5.

;i �j_��/� ;� � ��,��irwJJ 6 - . %�••1r ·%� ,. '. �''.'7 � % � : �-���rfl��i 3 � � �CZJ�Z;I �- L J � � 2 � � � � � [I

� Z;I�Vim�� W'.i: � •. . . % � a b c d e f g h

1 2 . . . ti:JbcG 1 3.l2Jh4 We? 14 .Wg4 E:g8 "Ihe position offers mutual chances. Black

remains with an extra pawn, although White's activity assures him of some compensation. Black's plan for the next few moves will be . . . �cl? and .. . 0-0-0 if possible. An important resource is . . . f5 or .. .f6 to create counterplay on the kingside.

a b c d e f g h

10 ... '1Wa5 l l.gb5 'Il1is wins back the pawn on c5, but loses

some coordination.

l I .h5N h6 1 2.ti:Jf3 We? 13 .l2Jh4 ti:Jbc6 transposes to 1 O.h5 above.

1 1 .. .\Wc7 12.l'hc5 llJbc6 13.!'&b5 Here I found an interesting way co improve

on the game Everrsson - Mueller Fernandez, Dos Hermanas 2004.

228 7th Move Options

a b c d e f g h

l3 ... a5!?N Bringing rhe passed pawn into play, while

also preparing ... b6 and ... �a6 to exchange rhe light-squared bishops. Later Black may obtain a useful outpost for a knight on c4.

B2) 9.'.Wbl

a b c d e f g h

1his move has achieved an outstanding score of nearly 80%, so we should pay close attention to it. 1he general idea is the same as in the previous line, but chis time White avoids leaving the a3-pawn unprotected. The drawback is char the queen commits herself to a strange square, thus l imiting White's attacking possibilities on the kingside.

9 ... Cllbc6!

9 . . . c4 has been by far the most common choice, bur for rhe same reasons as given in rhe previous variation, I prefer to avoid or at least delay blocking rhe centre for as long as possible.

10.Cllf3 1 0.h5 h6 I I .lllf3 c4 transposes to the main

line below. Black has no need to fear 1 0.�b5N �a5 , as

the queen can happily drop back to c7 while White's queen and light-squared bishop are misplaced.

10 ... c4 By now Black does not seem ro have anything

better than blocking the centre, but rhe sicuation has changed from the previous move, as White has lost some Aexibility by committing his knight to the f3-square. Black's counrerplay now depends on the . . .f6 break, and it will be important to carry it out before White can achieve full coordination on the kingside.

12 ... �d? l3.�h3 o-o-o 14.1.Wcl iibs Hiding the king on b8 or in the corner is

Chaprer 1 7 - 7 .�d3 and 7 .h4 229

often a sensible precamion before going into action on rhe other flank.

15.lllh4 @as 16.0-0

8 �� �� � �� - . . . Y- . - / , . , .Y, 7 W/!·.i.� i W� 6 % . . • . %m,�r1·m% . . . . %�.1 5 m 0m ·� 0mZti% 4 WK� i � �, � 0�0ef ,�·0"1' 3 RJflu '" �m "R' 2

' �f'e·J'1'wv� �� Ni � M� a b c d e f g h

16 ... f6! 17.exf6 gxf6 18.:gel eS 19.�xd7 :gxd7 20.dxeS?!

'll1e correcr continuation is 20.�e3N Ei:dd8 with i nteresting play. Black has a safe king and attacking potential on the kingside as well as a strong pawn centre.

20 .. . fxeS Van Haasrert - Visser, Hilversum 2008.

Black is already slightly betrer, with firm central control and attacking prospects against White's king.

B3) 9.hS

9 . . . b6 9 . . . cxd4 1 0.cxd4 transposes to 8 . . . cxd4

9.cxd4 ®a4 1 0.h5! as discussed earlier on page 226.

At this point White can either bring his rook into play with B31) 10.:gh4 or press ahead on the kingside with B32) 10.h6.

Before discussing those moves in derai l , I would l ike to offer some guidance about how co respond to the h4-h5-h6 plan. TI1e most natural reaction may seem to be to meet h5-h6 with . . . g6, keeping the kingside closed and the pawn chain intact. However, my lifelong experience as a French player has taught me that such positions should generally be avoided. Instead Black should usually either prevent the pawn from arriving on h6 by playing . . . h6 himself, or accept a slightly damaged pawn structure and aim for active counrerplay on the g-file as well as the light squares.

1 0.tllf3 �a6 will almost certainly transpose to one of the two main l ines after 1 l .Ei:h4 or 1 l .h6 respectively.

B31) 10.:gh4 �a6 l I .lllf3 i.xfl 12.@xfl

11 -�� %ii � i1.�riT�i , ,��l&' '� : • 'd'ffj·�! 4 1B 'B '� �� 3 0�. ,.�. ,

� �-;; ;0·?�� 2 � tJ m rfl,/�-�� miVm@m a b c d e f g h

12 .. . \Wc4t!?N 12 . . . tllbc6?! gave White the upper hand

after 1 3 .h6 ( 1 3 .dxc5!?N is also interesting) in Grischuk - Kamsky, Beijing 20 1 1 .

230 7th Move Options

12 . . . ltJf5 is quite playable and after 1 3.l'!f4 ltJc6 Black was fine in Sasikiran - Sutovsky, Antwerp 2009. Nevertheless I believe the text move to be a marginal improvement.

13.'l'Ne2 1 3. Wg I ltJ bc6 doesn't trouble Black, who has

a perfectly sound position with countcrplay on the c-filc and the l ight squares. The difference between this and the aforementioned Grischuk - Kamsky game is that here dxc5 can safely be met by ... W'xc5 .

13 • . . 'l'Nxe2t 14.'it>xe2 lild7! It is useful for the knight to be ready to

recapture on c5 to avoid an opening of the b-filc.

a b c d e f g h

15 .h6 g6! "D1is position is an exception to my general

rule outlined on the previous page. Herc Black's prospects for countcrplay along the g-filc would not be so great, while the blocking of the kingside docs not harm his position too much. 111erc arc still some weaknesses, but with the queens off the board Black can better control matters, especially with the knight placed on d7 where it guards f6. 111c main long-term issue for Black is the weakness of the pawn on h7. In view of this Black should cascle shore in order to protect it and obtain

countcrplay along the c-file. Note that shore cascling would have been highly dangerous if the queens were still on the board.

Black is doing fine.

B32) 10.h6

a b c d e f g h 10 ... gxh6!N

I believe this to be the best move objectively, but even more so from a practical point of view.

I O . . . g6 has been played in a couple of games and is also the computer's preference. However, for the reasons discussed earlier, I would consider it a strategic mistake.

I I ..ixh6 .ia6 l 2.ha6 I considered two other options:

1 2.�g5 �xfl 1 3 .@xf! ltJd7 14.ltJc2 Ei:c8 1 5 .Ei:a2 A strange defensive move, but quite a typical one for the Winawcr. l 5 . . . W'c4 l 6.Ei:b2 W'a6 Black is doing fine and 17 .Ei:a2 might lead to a repetition of moves.

1 2.ltJf3 �xfl 1 3.Wxfl ltJd7 gives a balanced position where Black's countcrplay on the qucensidc and along the c-filc compensates for the weaknesses on the kingsidc. Black's general plan should be to keep his king in the centre and play with the rooks along the c- and g-filcs.

Chapter 1 7 - 7 .i.d3 and 7.h4 23 1

l2 . • . l£ixa6

8 xm m•m �� 7 - � �·� · 6 Aj\�fl·i ·fl· S �-� �n� � : 1.�1r.fl. 3 � � m m 2 i �'·'"�JIA,� i �� �iV� W: M

a b c d e f g h

This position has yet to be tested, but it is quite thematic for this line and the moves on both sides have so far been extremely logical and principled. I decided to explore two paths in detail, in order co show some relevant ideas and illustrate how the play may develop. lhus we will consider B321) 13.l£if3 and B322) 13.i.gS in turn.

B321) 13.lll£3 cxd4 14.cxd4 :gcs 15.:gcl :ggs

16 ... liJfS Another idea is 1 6 . . . ll'ib8 1 7.ll'ixh7 ll'id7

defending fG. There might follow l 8.g3 1%c3 1 9 .�d2 :gxa3 20.c3 ®xd 1 t 2 1 . \t>xd 1 !i:a2 with roughly equal chances.

17.ll'lxh7 gxg2 18.i.gS �c4! It is useful to prevent \t>fl .

19.c3 1 9.ll'lfGt? ©d8+ only helps Black to get his

king into safety.

l 9.®h5 forces a draw after l 9 . . . ®xd4D 20.ll'ifGt \f;>f8D 2 1 .ll'id?i· \t>e8 22.ll'ifGt= with perpecual checks.

l 9.®d3 leads to a similar draw by perpecual: l 9 . . . ®xd3 20.ll'ifGt ©d8 2 1 .1%h8t \!Je7 22.ll'ixd5t ©d7 23.ll'ifGt \t>e7 24.ll'id5t=

1 9.®e2 also leads to a draw, albeit by slightly more complicated means: l 9 . . . ®c3t 20.©fl ll'ig3t 2 l .fxg3 !i:xe2 22.ll'ifGt \t>f8 23.:gh8t \t>g7 24.1%h7t \t>gG 25.©xe2 ®xd4

%%. � fWS � � s . ��� � � 7 � • • ••.: 6 l)j�;C� i �;I] g'·· · · · z���·· · · •W§§� 5 ���;-- ·} j�'f.,

__

j� : Wj����ffj� /, . . z � � z z 2 Z/. z•z89�-z %. I � �� � �

a b c d e f g h 26.�f4 ll'ic5 27.Ei:ch I tlle4 28.Ei: 1 hGt \t>f5 29.1%h5t \t>gG 30.1%5h6t=

19 ... 'i!?d7! 20.�e2 20.®f3 wins an exchange, but at too high

a price. After 20 . . . Ei:xg5 2 1 .ll'ixg5 ll'ixd4 Black has more than enough compensation, as his

232 7th Move Options

knights have excellent outposts available and White's pawn structure is weak.

20 .. . @c6! 1ne king is getting ready for the endgame.

8 �Im m m 7 - m R .t. R_QJ 6 'i)�1•m' m m - - � �-��if� : �.1�1·. Wfri �� � � 3 ¥� ¥� � � 2 �m D�DIR

� �� � �: � , _ ·� Z, , /. m a b c d e f g h

21 .'.Wxc4t Once again, 2 1 .'Wf3 El:xg5 22.ctJxg5 ctJxd4

23.'We3 ctJf5 gives Black fine compensation.

21 ... dxc4 22.@fl gg4 23.@e2 gg8 24.�d2 24.8:h5 might lead to a repetition: 24 . . . ctJg?

25 .E!hh 1 llle8 1he knight retreats to protect the fG-square. 26.E1h5 ctJg7=

24 . . ,ge4t 25.@f.3 gh4 1l1e position is evenly balanced. White has

the advantage of having a bishop on the board, but Black has active pieces (including his king!) and good control over the light squares.

B322) 13.�g5

a b c d e f g h

1l1is time White plans to capture the h7-pawn with his rook instead of his knight.

13 . . . gcs 14,gcl gg8 Black abandons the h-pawn to its fate, as

activating the rook is a higher priority.

15.ctJf3 cxd4 16.cxd4 gc3! I G . . . lllf5 is slightly inaccurate in view of:

1 7.c3 ( l 7.8:xh7 El:c3!t leads to the main line below.) 17 . . . '\Wxd 1 t 1 8 .'it>xd l hG! 1 9.g4! hxg5 20.gxf5t White has the easier task in the endgame although I believe Black should hold it with accurate defence.

17,gxh7 tlif5 Black has active piece play and a promising

in itiative.

Chapter 1 7 - 7 .�d3 and 7 .h4 233

8 m m*m:im 7 � m m • m� 6 "1� U i B U

B � �-% %-� : 1�u/}a�. 3 � 0,�1f . , , /mq5��-/,;;� 2 /, , , /•·trm %��-�/m � ��vr,� �� � / , , ,Y. /,, / �%

a b c d e f g h

18.g3!? This strange-looking move leads to interesting

complications and eventual equaliry.

I also analysed the following line where White gives up a pawn in pursuit of rhe initiative: 1 S.�d2 :gxa3 19 .Cl'ig5 '®xd4 20.'®e2 ctJc5 2 1 .'®b5t ©dS 22.'®c6

22.'2lxt7"!"?! ©cs 23.'2ld6t ©bs+ 22 . . . '®xe5t 23.\t>fl

23 . . . '®e2t! 24.lt>xe2 24 .Wgl ?? loses to 24 . . . Wxd2 25.'2lxf7t \t>e7 26.'Wc?i" \t>f6 27.\We5 '!" Wg6-+ and the black king escapes.

24 . . . tt:ld4t 25 .Wfl '2lxc6 26.'2lxf7i" 'itic8 27.�f4 :ga4 28 .g3 llle4

White has compensation for the pawn but not more than that. A likely continuation is:

29.'2lh6 ms! 30.:gc?t ©ds

3 1 .'2lf7t 3 l .Elxc6 Elxf4 32.gxf4 Wd7 33.f3 ©xc6 34.fxe4 :gxe4 gives Black slightly the easier side of a drawn endgame.

3 L.©es 32.'2ld6t lllxd6 33.�xd6 ms= -rhe position remains equal as the knight

on c6 is indirectly protected by the . . . Wd7 resource.

� ��'''' 6 lilwl m • m m s . m • Dlil� 4 �- t� - -

�.n� ;:: , , ,t � , �-% � rtl�.�r/}n � � .. -� r�-� � � ��Vi°� � a b c d e f g h

18 ... l:'!xf.3 19.'1Wxf3 l:'!xg5 20.c4! 20.g4?? '®xd4! is hopeless for White, but the

text move forces Black co be careful.

20 ... 'IWaSt! Other moves would give White the

advantage, one example being 20 . . . '2lc7? 2 l .g4!± and it is difficult for Black to defend his weaknesses.

21 .l:'!c3!?

234 7th Move Options

2 1 .Wfl ?? is nearly refuted by 2 1 . . .Cllxg3t! 22.wg2 ct:le4t 23.@h l l'!f5-+.

2 1 . Wd 1 '\¥ra4 t 22.@e 1 leads to an unexpected perpetual check.

The text move looks like a risky winning attempt, but also ends up in a draw.

21 .. .lLic? Another rouce is 2 1 . . .lLlb4!? 22.axb4 \¥Ta 1 t

23.@d2 '\¥ra2t 24.@el '\¥ral t= with perpecual checks.

a b c d e f g h

22.@fl! lLixg3t 23.fxg3! g5 24.©g2 gxf3 2s.gxf3 Wd2t 26.©h3 Wxd4 27.gfxf7

27 ... We4 There is no sense in crying co save che knight,

so Black forces a perpetual . 27 . . . '\¥rgl is also good enough.

28,gxc7 Whit 29.©g4 We4t 30.©gS WxeSt 31.©g6 WfSt 32.©g7 Wf8t=

111ere is no escaping the checks.

Conclusion

7.�d3 is a playable sideline but not something Black should fear. 7.h4 is a different matter, although che thematic queen manoeuvre co a4 seems co yield sufficient councerplay. "Il1e most critical line is B32 where White advances his h-pawn all che way co h6, but with the novelty 1 0 . . . gxhG!N Black obtains adequate play on the light squares and along che newly-opened g-file.

7th Move Options a b c d c f g h

7.�f3

Variation Index l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.tl'lc3 .ih4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 tl'le7 7.tl'lf3

7 ... h6!? A) 8 • .ie2 B) 8 • .id3 C) 8.h4 b6

Cl) 9.h5 C2) 9 . .ih5t

D) 8.a4 0-0N DI) 9 . .id3 D2) 9 . .ia3

A) afcer I 2.tZlh4

1 2 . . . !lcB!N

B) note to I O.tZlh4!?

a b c d c f g b 1 1 . . .WcB!N

B) after 1 5.!lac I

I 5 . . . fxc5N

238 239 243 243 244 247 247 248

236 7th Move Options

1 .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.ctJc3 �b4 4.eS cS 5.a3 Lc3t 6.bxc3 ctJe7 7.ctJf3

8 .i�.i.�·� �� 7 �' n ,� !m.t.' : �=,�� 4 n e m m 3 � � ml{Jm 2

L.%� ��%� ���� ���,·�•:

a b c d e f g h

·n1is is an extremely important branch of Winawer theory, second only to 7.\Wg4 in terms of popularity. I nsread oflunging with the queen, White develops a piece and steers the game towards a more positional battle where he hopes h is space advantage and bishop pair will prove more significant than the doubled c-pawns.

7 ... h6!? An important moment. ·n1is is far from rhe

most popular option, and rhe reader may be forgiven for wondering why we should play such a move. I will answer this question in two parts: firsrly by explaining the useful aspects of the move . . . h6 itself, and secondly by mentioning some of the drawbacks of Black's more obvious moves.

Starting at the most basic level, Black's last move guards the g5-square, preventing any attacking ideas based on lllg5 followed by \Wh5. 'TI1is plan caused considerable problems even for Magnus Carlsen in a game against Caruana at the 20 1 2 Grand Slam Final, which you can find referenced shortly.

'TI1e move . . . h6 also has some more subrle prophylactic uses. In positions where Black

opts for short castling, he often has to worry about id3 creating the immediate threat of ixh?t, so playing the move . . . h6 in advance creates a cushion against this plan. 'TI1ere arc other variations where White pushes his h-pawn up rhc board; once again, rhe move . . . h6 blocks this idea before it has even started.

Despite these virtues, it is still reasonable to ask why Black should commit himself to . . . h6 so soon. To answer this point, I would argue char 7 . . . h6 is a high-class waiting move, which actually leads to a mild form of zugzwang, whereby Black intends to choose a specific scheme of development against whichever move his opponent might play.

To illustrate this point more fully, I will present a brief summary of Black's major alternatives, showing how White should react to each one of them. 'TI1e following moves are arranged in descending order of popularity according to the database.

i) 7 . . . lllbc6 can be answered by 8 .id3.

a b c d e f g h As a rule, I l ike to be able to respond to this

active developing move with . . . b6 and . . .. �,a6, but with the knight committed to c6 this option is no longer available. Moreover, short castling is prevented due to the thematic sacrifice on h7. One high-profile game continued 8 . . . id7 9.0-0 \Wc7 1 0.l'!c l llla5? 1 1 .lllg5± and Black

Chapter 1 8 - 7 .tllf3 237

had some problems in Caruana - Carlsen, Sao Paulo/Bilbao 20 1 2. As mentioned previously, this example also highlights the prophylactic value of the move . . . h6.

ii) 7 . . . id7 is a popular choice but it feels wrong to me, as it completely abandons the idea of exchanging bishops with . . . b6 and . . . ia6. White replies with 8 .a4! .

a b c d e f g h ll1is move secures the a3-square for his

bishop while also preventing the black bishop from coming to a4 . In my opinion White has a good game.

ii i) 7 .. .'1Wa5 has also been tested extensively, but it is slightly early to commit the queen.

a b c d e f g h White has achieved a modest plus score with

8 .id2, and 8 .'Wd2!? is also interesting, keeping the possibility of developing the bishop on a3 later.

iv) If Black plays 7 . . . b6 intending . . . ia6, then White can play 8.ib51' id7 9.id3 avoiding the exchange of bishops.

s EaY �·� �� 7 �%· �,:t�Tw.11., 6 L ;.i� .... . ;.� s �/ "w� {W[j y/;�f ·0 ��:. . . . . :.WN:f · · · · "��� 4 a ;Q:. � • 3 I� �lslt�dlJ� /. % / . % • �� 2 - LS � 'ffjLS W!J ,i1 ,:.;�ir:l %•� � j i{ ,·.:;; ? . . � �

a b c d e f g h We will encounter a similar situation in the

main part of the chapter in variation C2, where the moves 7 . . . h6 and 8 .h4 have been included. I believe that the inclusion of the pawn moves favours Black slightly, for reasons that will be explained on page 244.

v) 7 . . . 'Wc7 has occurred in a huge number of games, many of them via a slightly different move order involving 6 . . . 'Wc7. This move also has the idea of being flexible, but I believe 7 . . . h6 to be a more useful waiting move.

vi) Finally, 7 . . . 0-0 is a sideline which has not been seen in many games. Though it cannot be

238 7th Move Options

refuted directly, Black presents his opponent with a target for a possible kingside attack, and loses the option of long castling, which can be especially useful in blocked positions involving a later ... c4.

Summary

Although the theoretical debate will surely continue, I believe I have demonstrated that Black's natural developing moves all come at a price. 'TI1ey are all playable, but each of them reveals information about Black's set-up that enables White to choose an appropriate plan of action.

This background information helps to put the move 7 ... h6 into its proper context. We have touched on its various uses, and over the course of the chapter we will see how Black can choose a scheme of development to counter whichever set-up White may choose, rather than the other way around.

Without further ado, we will start looking at some options for White. 111ere are four main candidates: A) 8.�e2, B) 8.�d3, C) 8.h4 and D) 8.a4. A few other rare moves have been tried, but they all carry obvious drawbacks as shown below.

8 .• �.b5t? is pointless before Black has committed himself to . . . b6. Now after 8 . . . �d7 Black will either get the l ight-squared bishops exchanged or, in the event that White retreats the bishop, util ize the free tempo to post his bishop on the a4-square.

8 .�d2 has been played on a single occasion, but is not likely to be repeated. 1l1e c3-pawn is not yet under threat and White loses the option of developing the bishop on a3. 8 . . . b6 Black proceeds with his standard plan. 9.a4 (9 .. �b5tN is met by 9 . . . �d7 intending either

an exchange of bishops or . . . �a4 if White retreats his own bishop.) 9 ... �a6 1 O.�e2 �xe2 1 1 .Wl'xe2

8 i.� ��- �� �i{' �/- ./,�IM lw.;:;{ / 7 %'•� � ,� A '2Az 6 · -� ;%��, �/, /,r� %%/ . . . . . \.,..'./

� 0� ,, , . , , / s wd �� i Wtf •

4 �-r j'ffj: j./�� 3 �- �0��f /,.tb. 0 2 - fj �iV�� fj � ?� � � · ��

a b c d e f g h Black already had a comfortable position in

Lopez Escobar - Matamoros Franco, Coria de! Rio 2002. At this point my suggestion would be 1 1 . . . 0-0N 1 2.0-0 lLlbc6+ intending . . . Wl'c7 and . . . lLla5-c4 with excellent play on the light squares.

8 .dxc5 gives White the d4-square for his knight, but his pawn structure becomes much worse. 8 . . . 0-0 Black develops normally; the weak pawn on c5 can be collected at any time. Now White's best seems to be 9.c4 when 9 . . . lLld7 1 O.cxd5 exd5 transposes to a position analysed under 8 .c4 below.

8 .c4 opens the position for White's bishop pair, bur White will be stuck with several pawn weaknesses. I propose: 8 . . . 0-0N 9.cxd5 (9 .dxc5 lLld7 1 O.cxd5 exd5 transposes) 9 . . . exd5 1 O.dxc5 llld7 1 l .�d3 ( 1 1 .�e3 lllf5!) 1 1 . . .lllxc5 1 2.0-0 �f5= with good prospects for Black.

A) 8.�e2

111is move has only been seen a few times, and Black gets a comfortable position with the typical plan of exchanging light-squared bishops.

Chapter 1 8 - 7.lllf3 239

8 i. �.i.�·- ��

7

••. ;� ,, . , , /,

� ·�/, .

. . . Y,

6 ,, ••• ,,.. '• s ••r.1f•rti• ' 4 m ·d m m 3 � � � CZJ� z . . . . %%f/£ . . . . % � � 2 � (j m�� iS t�

�� mif� m� a b c d e f g h

8 ... b6! 9.0-0 9.ib5t?! loses mo much time for White.

9 . . . id7 10 .ie2?! ( 1 0.a4N is a more logical try but after 1 O . . . \Wc7 Black is fine as he has gained the useful move . . . h6 compared with other similar lines.) Now in Schoene - Moor, Dresden 2003, the srandard l O . . . ia4!N would have given Black the more comfortable game as White has sacrificed two tempos with his bishop.

9 ... �a6 10.�e3 he2 I l .Wfxe2 tLld7 Black has exchanged his bad bishop without

a hitch and should be happy wich the outcome of the opening.

12.tLlh4 White would like to advance his f-pawn. In

rhe game Bellaiche - Shakhmurzova, Prague 20 1 2, Black reacted with the risky l 2 . . . g5!?, bur I suggest a calmer approach.

12 ... �c8!N 13.f4 g6; White is unlikely to create any serious

problems on the kingside, while Black has excellent long-term chances on the queenside.

B) 8.�d3

With this move White aims for rapid development and short castling.

8 .. . b6 Once again exchanging light-squared

bishops is an attractive plan, especially when White has already spent a tempo moving his bishop.

9.0-0 1his is the usual choice.

One other example continued 9 .ie3 \Wc7 l O.\Wd2 ia6 l l . h4 ixd3 with a choice of recaptures for White:

a) l 2.\Wxd3 llld7 l 3 .a4 1:'i:c8 1 4.0-0 0-0 1 5 .i:!fc l

a b c d e f g h 1 5 . . .f6!? (Perhaps Black was tempted to open the kingside after the white rook moved away. Still, l 5 . . . lllf5N would have been a simpler way to maintain at lease equal prospects.) 1 6.if4?! ( 1 6.exf6N 1:'i:xf6=) 16 . . . fxe5 1 7.ixe5 tLlxe5 l 8.tLlxe5 tLlf5+ Astengo - Drasko, Bratto 2005. Black has a better pawn structure and ongoing pressure along the c-file.

240 7th Move Options

b) 1 2.cxd3N is well met by I 2 . . . c4!:

9 . . . �a6 Black is now about to achieve one of his

main goals in the Winawer, exchanging off the light-squared bishops which will give excellent counterplay on the light squares.

8 .i� �·- �� 7 �rff . , . ;., , , . . ;\; , ,,0, "'�;r'0' , . · "' 6 ,.��f�. �""" "'�r*��-%� . . . . . /'. : •J"'lfE.�. 3 fl�W/1"£8�� � % . . . . % L.% � • 2 U 8 m � 8 � �""r�� �: ��·i/ ., f.gq �°iYm. M �

a b c d e f g h

10.lDh4!? This move has been played by Anand. ·n1c

idea is simply ro push the f-pawn and arrack on the kingside. Several other moves have been tried, and I have presented a selection of alternatives to show how the game may develop.

I O.a4 ixd3 l l .�xd3 ( 1 l .cxd3 Chumfwa -A. CAmi, Dar cs Salaam 20 1 3 . 1 1 . . . 0-0N 1 2.ia3 tt::ld7=) 1 1 . . .0-0 1 2.ia3 Zeltner -Nickmann, Germany 1 995 . 1 2 . . . Llld7N= Black has a solid position with activity on the c-file and light-square control.

1 O.tt::le 1 �c8 A useful move, activating the queen along the c-file as well as protecting the bishop on a6. 1 1 Jke3 Alvarado Rodriguez -Drasko, Dos Hermanas 2004. Here I suggest l I . . .ixd3N 1 2.cxd3 cxd4 1 3 .cxd4 ( 1 3 .ixd4 tt::lbc6+) 1 3 . . . ctJbcG+ when Black's favourable pawn structure gives him an edge.

1 O .• �e3 ixd3 Also possible is 1 0 . . . tt:Jf5!? intending l l .dxc5 ctJxc3 I 2.fxe3 bxc5= .

l l .�xd3 l l .cxd3N can be met by l l . . . cxd4 l 2.ctJxd4 ( 1 2.cxd4 0-0=) 12 . . . 0-0 1 3 .�g4 ©h7= intending . . . tt::lbc6.

1 l .. .'Mlc7N I found three practical examples with 1 l . . . ctJd7 in the database, but I would prefer to keep the knight more flexible for the moment. A possible line is:

1 2.dxc5 bxc5 1 3.c4 d4 1 3 . . . 0-0=

1 4.id2 ctJd7 1 5 .�fe l 0-0 1 6 .c3 dxc3 1 7 .. �xc3 E!fd8

I slightly prefer Black due ro his better piece coordination.

Chapter 1 8 - 7.lll f3 24 1

A final option . . 1 0 � .

IS . · · x.i6 llixa6 1 1 1w 1 1 r:,

. a e2 - · · is slo .'1_ie PI

·

White's king . · J w, and after 1 1 ()

'°" I "'" '°"°"' I

. .. --ON

ate. Black Ins c . p ay comes a lJ .

sq ' n1 1n co I

1t

. uares and good . . ntro over the Ii rl

necessary the mov:1 0fspecrs on the c-fi.le

g �tf_

up Wh · ' ·

·· 5 can b

·

1 1 ite s kingside ph

e used to hold

.a4 0-0 1 2 t.> , y.

b . I .sa3 WI 7N

is 10p our of the c Black kee s t

Th< kni J gam< and '' d ·

p h<

I g 1t can jum

o111g fine

w 1en needed P out from a6 .

.

•

J via b8

l0 ... i.xd3 1 1 illf .sxd3 After l 1 .cxd3N

l l . . .cxd4 1 2 . Black can

lilf5 . .ad4 lilbc6 1 3 1¥1 ' cominu<

. with interesrin · g4 g5!? 1 4.l2Jf3

cont1mntio . g prospects A ' n is: l 5 .Wh5 Av

'd

' · possible 01 111g . . . h5 .

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7 ¥.1% �,, ,;��. �� / :/., .. • � & twfef /

6 WA".'§: •� • .';r:%·;:;f::/f; • if%? ;/r.�Wd? :;;; • //,////.

s �, "�",1"A . . � r� 0%% ;� & ,'{f'{�'Sl;;-;l·;.J'· · · ./

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[ �R;f, ;/� Y; 0.0%'-' ;L;'i� Q fd -� 00 � 'R :1i( ;

·1 b ;fh, / .§ ;,'§t'

' c d e f , : 1 5 . . . 'itid71 � (11 .

g h . . 1e Sil I

when l 6.Wg4 �h�� e alternative is 1 5 . . �

I 6.1¥1xf7t 1¥1 • - "P'"" ,h, . : g8

Wxe7 Bl I e7 l 7.Wh5 (Ac

position.)

ac c w'll rter 1 7 W

pby.) 1 7 o ' regain <h< d4- . ·. «71"!

. .. .<=>ag8 Black I p,1wn with good

with at least , I us an active · .

equa prospects. posmon

8 � ;;� / . . . a ,�, ,\Uli� � ;.: •/ ». . . . �'61�:@ /, . . /

7 �� · -··��/-. . . . \�•·//, �- 0� ,, .. k � / � ' W.l'',0,/, . . . . Y,

6 w. ., w . . ??'� � �� -� '/ . . . . . ;, � �

5 • �?l&B�"''. "• m. w.r & �� · �-w

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4 •w . . . . . % A -;:C:f. �

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3 ¥NJ.�1flp" . • m /q�/, t.&tv• �· . . .

2 m A �m.. � :.�J;�"q m �� A

"�fm

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a b %% § �

c d e f ,,, . . /,

I l . ..�bc6 12.f4 WT g h

I slightly p . c d? 13 . .id2 0-0

. 1e1er th.

111 An· d ts over 1 3

,111 - Iva I . . . c4 as I·

J • nouk D

· P aycd

t 1at case Black . , ortmund 1 997 I

pw>p<m on ,h;'m"'" rnlid bm !om , '

n

the queenside h

ome

open fi.I , sue a . 1 .

a lmi 'h c- e and the 4

s uu izing

g r. c -outpost for

242 7th Move Options

14.f'5

8 -iW u �·-ff;�.� \lUr�� & ff&% 7 �. - m •· • �• 6 % . . . %w�l�ti· '�;;; . . . . %w� s W 'wifto!n" �� . . . %�·if . . . . %� ·c/� 4 ff� �ffffl£J� ��,/� 3 �a. �a. §' - m 2 L.%� %ti%W§J �-/;wt§ .�. '•'=' '

a b c d e f g h 14 ... fb! 1 5.gael fxeSN

Instead after l 5 . . . exf5 ! 6.e6 1We8 l 7.ctJxf5 ctJxf5 1 8 .[\xf5 ctJe7 l 9.Elf3 Black had some problems in Badev - Drasko, Plovdiv 2008, due to the strong passed pawn on e6.

16.fb! 1he position calls for this move. l 6.dxe5

exf5 1 7.e6 1Wd6 does not trouble Black: 1 8 .�f4 (After 1 8 .ctJxf5 �xf5 l 9.�xf5 c4 20.1/;lffl ctJxf5 2 l .1Wxf5 �f8+ Black keeps the passed e-pawn well under control.) l 8 . . . 1Wd8 I 9.�c l

a b c d e f g h Now Black can choose to repeat moves with

I 9 . . . 1Wd6 20.�f4, but it looks more promising to play 1 9 . . . 1We8! 20.ctJxf5 1Wg6 when White's passed e-pawn is outweighed by his many pawn weaknesses.

16 . .. gxf6 17.gxf6 gxf6 18.hl6 lllf5 19.lllxf5 exf5 20.V9g3t

20.dxe5 ctJxe5 2 l .1Wg3t ©f7 merely transposes.

Trying to advance the passed h-pawn is the only logical winning attempt, bm Black can force a draw all the same.

Chapter 1 8 - 7.ll'lf3 243

27.ih6t rtle7 28.igSt @ffi=

C) 8.h4

White makes a useful waiting move to see what Black is up to.

8 ... b6 We proceed with the typical plan. Now

White can press ahead on the kingside with CI) 9.hS or disrupt our planned bishop exchange wirh C2) 9.ibSt.

Cl) 9.hS ia6 10.ha6 lllxa6

A typical move, making way for the queen to come to g4 while preventing . . . tlif5.

l l .l"J:h4?! was an optimistic idea seen in Khruschiov - Rychagov, Dos Hermanas 2003. Here Black would do well to play l l . . . cxd4N l 2.cxd4 l"J:c8+ intending . . . l"J:c4 with lots of activity on the c-file.

l l .'1We2 tlib8 ( l l . . .'\Wc8N seems like a valid alternative) l 2.c4!?N dxc4 l 3 .dxc5 bxc5 l 4.'\Wxc4 '\Wc7 is equal.

l I .'\Wd3 li.Jb8 ( l l . . .'\Wc8N looks fine here too) l 2.dxc5 bxc5 1 3 .c4 llibc6 1 4.0-0 0-0 l 5 .�e3 '\Wa5

Returning to the main line, Black should go for a counterattack along the c-file.

1 1 ...gcS! 1 2.'.Wg4 cxd4 13.cxd4 l 3.'\Wxg7? l"J:g8 l 4.'\Wxh6 l"J:xc3+ favours

Black.

13 . . . ggS! This slightly awkward move is necessary in

order to protect the kingside. Black forfeits the right to castle but in return he will obtain promising counrerplay on rhe queenside.

244 7th Move Options

14.Wfe2

15J�h3 'l!Mc4 16.c3 'l!Mxe2t 17.@xe2 lllb8 18.a4 lllbc6=

Black has a comfortable endgame and intends . . . tt:la5-c4 next.

C2) 9.ibSt

8 .i�.i.�·� �� 7 ltl %' • "lil �ltl ef ,

6 �-�-.,�. s l�ff� lwtJ ��If-- - % 4 �. ,. ,.�� 3 ��- ,-�., ! 2 ''96,'R �D !n �� �vm ��

a b c d e f g h 1his is a standard reply to . . . b6, by which

White seeks to disrupt Black's plan of exchanging the light-squared bishops.

9 ... id7 10.id3 ia4

I also spent some time examining 1 O . . . tt:lbc6, but found the text move to be more in keeping with Black's strategic plan . By blocking the pawn on a3, Black restricts the options for the bishop on c l . From a4 the bishop also exerts some pressure against c2.

I mentioned in the chapter introduction that a similar position often occurs in the 7 . . . b6 variation, without the moves h2-h4 and . . . h6 being included. Sometimes these moves arc played anyway in the 7 . . . b6 line, but even so, I believe there a couple of reasons why Black should be happier to reach the present version with the h-pawns already having moved. For one thing, there is no chance whatsoever of White launching an attack with tt:lg5 followed by moving his queen to g4 or h5 . Another more subtle point is that Black can consider a remarkable plan involving . . . c4 followed by putting the king on d7 and switching the queen to the h7-square, as shown in some of the lines that follow.

a b c d e f g 11 1 1 .hS

White intends to play :B:h4 to attack the bishop along the fourth rank.

Here is another example showing some important ideas: 1 1 .�J4 tt:ld7

Chapter 1 8 - 7.tt:lf3 245

Black can also consider l 1 . . . c4 l 2 . .l1l,e2 ©d7! as seen in Inarkiev - Kristjansson, Pardubice 2002, and afrer rhe further l 3 .h5 we transpose to the note to move 1 3 in the main line below, as reached afrer l l .h5 c4 l 2 . .l1l,e2 ©d7! l 3 . .l1l,f4. An imponant resource for Black is the . . . \Wg8-h7 manoeuvre with pressure against c2. This reveals another deep idea connected with the move 7 . . . h6.

1 2.\Wd2

1 2 . . . a6! Preparing to exchange rhe light-squared bishops with . . . . �b5 .

1 3 .h5 .l1l,b5 14 .gh3 .�xd3 l 5 .�fxd3 \Wc7 1 6.tt:lh4 cxd4 17.cxd4 \Wc4

l 7 . . . gc8N+ might be slightly stronger, bur rhe game continuation nevertheless illustrates Black's chances quire well.

1 8 .\Wd2 gc8 1 9 .gg3

1 9 . . . ©f8

'Il1is temporary misplacement of the king can ofren be a good solution against the immediate kingside threats. l 9 . . . \Wxc2!?N also comes into consideration: 20.\Wxc2 (20.gxg7 \Wa4+) 20 ... gxc2 2 J .gxg7 gc4 22.gd l ga4 23 .gg3 b5+

20.gc l tt:lc6 2 1 .c3 tt:la5 22.\Wd i gg8 23.gb l <J1e7 24.a4 \Wa2 25 . .l1l,c 1 tt:lc4 26.tt:lf3 f6!+

Black had the initiative and went on to win in Socko - Rustemov, Warsaw 2005 .

i: 1') �·- i' � �'• j•rwJJ 6 L.%w� �-1-'B . . . . %w� s m% . . %r� l� %B"ti% 4 Tm" /,�% . . . . Zm �m 3 t� �ilmqjm 2 m bm �bm

� - � % ,,.� /"./,' '.%'.-/, � �� �WI?� m �

a b c d e f g h

l l ...c4 'This move introduces a rather aesthetic plan

for Black, where the geometry among the pieces makes a good impression.

Black can also choose a more dynamic approach with l l ... \Wc7!? , creating a positional ducat that is revealed afrer l 2.gh4?! ( 1 2.0-0 is better) 1 2 . . . cxd4 1 3 .cxd4 \Wc3"!" 14 J�d2 \Wxd3 1 5.cxd3 .l1l,xd l 1 6.©xd l tt:lbc6 as seen in Weichhold - M. Socko, Lazy 20 1 0. Black has the better pawn structure and excellent chances in the endgame.

12.J.e2 i>d7! We have already touched on this idea in

the note to White's 1 1 th move above. Black opens the way for the queen to get via g8 to h7 purring pressure against c2. Such blocked positions do nor lend themselves to forced

246 7th Move Options

analysis, so I have chosen a couple of instructive examples to show some important themes and manoeuvres.

13.liJh4 1 3 .�f4 '1Wg8 14 .llld2 \Wh7 1 5 .E?.a2 lba6

1 G.g4 lllc7 1 7 .E?.h3 E?.af8

8 � � ;if �� �-� �z "'/}f�z , ,}, . . �;::;.·��- - - -� 7 ;� ar•ar .t. ��� 6 / 'If -��,, �' z� 5 � � · � -� � � / . . z f;{i* 4 .t.� .t. � ��� 3 W!J � � m.: 2 ,,�Lt�);r!/i�% �m ���®;�--- - %-� I �� � "®' �3. W.@i

a b c d e f g h 1 8 .E?.e3 'it>c8 1 9.�g3 lllcG 20.liJB E?.hg8 2 1 .'it>d2 'it>b7 22.°IWh l lllb5+ Bologan -Vitiugov, Dago mys 20 1 0. Black has achieved a perfect starting point for further action. A kingside break with . . . g6 or . . . g5 is one idea to consider. Sacrifices in the centre are also something to watch out for, especially if White moves away his knight away from f3 .

a b c d e f g h 13 ... Wgs 14.ig4 '!Wh7 1 5.ga2 ltJa6 16.gh3 ltJc7 17.Wfl gaf8 1s.'it?g1

a b c d e f g h 18 . . . g5!?

Black could also continue manoeuvring in similar fashion to the aforementioned Bologan - Vitiugov game, with moves such as 1 8 ... 'it>c8 and . . . 'it>b7. Playing actively on the kingside also has its appeal though.

19.lllf3 1 9 .hxgGN was perhaps a better decision to

keep some diagonals open for the bishops. However, after 19 . . . fxgG 20 .lbf3 '1Wg7= Black's position looks comfortable.

19 ... Cllc6 20.liJh2 f5 21 .exf6 gxf6 22,ge3 ghffi

23.f3?!

Chapter 1 8 - 7.tllf3 247

A subcle inaccuracy, reducing the protection of the pawn on h5.

23 .. . Wf7 24.id2 tlles 25.ih3 Wxh5 26.l!Jg4 �f5 27.l!Jfl

a b c d e f g h

27 ... Wg6! Black has much better piece coordination

and rhe white rooks cannot do much in chis relatively closed position.

28.1xfs exf5i Black was on cop and wenr on co win in Ki.

Georgiev - Yusupov, Las Palmas 1 993.

D) 8.a4

'D1is is White's most popular option and clearly a logical attempc. White does nor wanr co commit his bishop on fl coo early, and moving rhe a-pawn is always a useful idea in order co obrain rhe desirable a3-f8 diagonal for rhe dark-squared bishop. White's lase move also discourages . . . b6 which can now be mer by a4-a5.

8 ... 0-0N Amazingly chis move appears co be a novelry,

alrhough ir still could easily transpose back co well-known theory. It is sensible co cascle at once in order co avoid ib5t in certain lines; with rhe white pawn already standing on a4, Black no longer has rhe option co meer chis check wirh the ... id7-a4 manoeuvre.

I will briefly menrion char 8 . . . W/c7 is a natural developing move which also has rhe idea co prevenr ia3. Ir seems playable enough, bur I like rhe flexibility of cascling firsc.

At chis point I considered rwo bishop moves for White: Dl) 9.id3 and 02) 9.ia3.

Dl) 9.id3 b6

Wirh this move we transpose co a theoretical position, with Black having avoided a critical line i nvolving an earlier ib5t.

10.g4!? Afrer the simple I 0.0-0 ia6= Black has

l itcle to fear, having successfully carried out his main positional goal.

The text move is an importanr idea to consider, since White is trying co exploit rhe weakening aspect of the earlier ... h6.

10 ... ia6 'll1is is not only a strong positional idea, ir

also exchanges one of White's most imporranr attacking pieces.

248 7th Move Options

8 :i� � ��·� :{&%» , -�-- '\jj�('&":r&%� 1 r• m ;� .. r• 6 '�w� 0.��r1.- ;r�r--%� •.. 'i*l�0�., . . .3

: !�Nllnfn 3 n !@18.fnln � 2 � 8 -� � � �dlfi 'Rrl

a b c d e f g h 1 I .i.xa6?!

ll1is was White's choice in the only example I found on the database, but ir turned our badly for him.

I I -�b5!? looks like a better try, bur afrer I I . . :lltfc7 Black should be fine.

1 l ...tLlxa6 12.gS hS 13.g6?! '01is sacrifice is clearly unsound, but wirhout

i t White will just be posirionally worse with no attacking prospects wharsoever.

13 ... fxg6 14.i.gS '%Ves+ Whire's compensarion was clearly insufficient

in Neumeier - Havlicek, Vienna I 998. 111e1-e is no real attack on rhe kingside, and indeed ir is Black who is poised ro creare rlueats along rhe f-file.

D2) 9.i.a3

9 ... b6! Black stubbornly refuses ro open the a3-f8

diagonal and insread offers a pawn sacrifice to weaken White's structure .

10.dxcS White could decline the offer, bur then what

would be the purpose of the bishop on a3?

l0 • • • '%Vc7 Black can also consider rhe simple

IO . . . bxc5!? as afrer I l .�xc5 'lltlc7 1 2.�xe7 'lltlxe7 the pressure along the c-file will bring fair compensation, A possible continuation is:

1 1 .c6!

Chapter 1 8 - 7 .tll f3 249

ll1is is White's only real auempt to cause problems.

l l . . . llibxc6! lhis simple move is the most reliable option.

I also considered: l I . .J§:d8!?

Preparing a possible exchange sacrifice for a bishop on dG. Black's last move also gives him the option of taking on cG with the e7-knight. 'TI1e idea is i nteresting but I found a narrow path to a white advantage.

1 2 .�d3! Black would be more than happy to see 1 2.�dG Ei:xdG 1 3.exdG ®xdG� when his pawn centre and White's weakened structure fully compensate for the exchange.

1 2 . . . lllbxcG 1 2 . . . lllcxcG 1 3 .. 111,dG Ei:xdG 1 4.cxdG 1Mfxd6 does not work quite so well here. After l 5 .c4 Black is left behind in development and will not get quite enough counterplay for the exchange.

a b c d e f g h 1 3 .0-0!

Once again 1 3 .�dG Ei:xd6 1 4.exdG ®xdG� would suit Black fine.

l 3 . . . �b7 1 4.Ei:e 1 ;!;

12.!d6 '.Wd8 13.llld4 l 3.�d3 should be met by 1 3 . . . fD! with equal

play.

13 .. . llla5! 14.!d3 lllb7 Driving the annoying bishop away. The

knight looks slightly odd but it will soon emerge on the excellent c5-squarc.

Conclusion

7.4'Jf3 remains a popular choice at all levels, hue 7 . . . hG!? presents a fresh challenge and has so far proven quite reliable for Black. Both 8 .�e2 and 8 .Xl.d3 arc well met by the typical plan of 8 . . . bG followed by exchanging the light-squared bishops.

8.h4 is a sensible move, but here too 8 . . . bG is a good answer. Especially interesting is variation C2 where Black can employ the remarkable strategy of blocking the position with . . . c4, followed by parking the king on d7 and manoeuvring the queen to h7.

Finally, 8.a4 is always a serious option to consider, but here the flexible 8 . . . 0-0N works well, as White has no chance of landing a Greek Gift sacrifice on h7. Overall Black seems to be doing fine everywhere, and I predict a bright future for 7 . . . hG.

7.a4 Introduction

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLic3 i.h4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 lLie7 7.a4

7 ... lLibc6 A) 8.�g4?! B) 8.f4 C) 8.a5!? D) 8.h4 E) 8.i.h5 F) 8.lLif3

B) after l 4.cxb3 C) after l 2.l2Jc2 E) after l 3.�.f4

14 . . . d4!N l 3 . . . l2Ja5!N

253 253 255 256 257 259

252 7.a4

I .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.lllc3 ib4 4.eS cS S.a3 ixc3t 6.bxc3 llle7 7.a4

a b c d e f g h 'TI1is posirional move has quire a few

purposes. Firsrly ir frees an importanr square for the dark-squared bishop. which may exert a considerable influence along rhe a3-f8 diagonal lacer in the game. Ir is also useful for White ro prevenr the typical blockading strategy involving a bishop or queen on a4. Finally, White may be able to use the a-pawn as a battering ram on the queensidc at some point, especially if Black attempts to exchange the light-squared bishops with . . . b6 and . . . �a6. 'TI1e drawbacks of 7 .a4 arc that it does not develop a piece and weakens the b4-squarc, which can sometimes be exploited by a timely exchange on d4 fol lowed by a knight jump to b4 .

7 .. . tt'lbc6 "This is rhe main l ine. 7 . . . Vfla5 is also popular

and the two moves often transpose ro one another.

It is worth menrioning briefly that rhe 7 . . . h6 idea from the previous chapter loses some of i ts poinr when rhe whire knighr has yer to commit itself to the f3-square, not least because 8.W/g4 is still an option.

We will analyse A) 8.W/g4?!, B) 8.f4, C) 8.aS!?, D) 8.h4, E) 8.ibS and F) 8.lllf.3, after first checking one clearly inferio r sideline.

8.�a3? "CT1is is far roo early and loses at lease a pawn for White.

8 . . . Wa5

9.\Wd2N

a b e d e g h

This is White's only chance to make a game of it. 9 .. :;txc5?? loses on the spot after 9 ... Vflxc3'f 1 0 .lt>c2 l2Jf5 (or 1 0 . . . b6-+) l 1 .ctJf3 b6 1 2.g4 bxc5 l 3.gxf5 �a6i' 0- 1 Malan - Baragano Campa, Aviles 2004. 9 .�b5?! \Wxc3'1 1 0.1!/fl \Wxd4 l J .W/xd4 cxd4 l 2.ctJf3 «�.d7+ Newton - Regimbald, Edmonton 2005 .

9 . . . cxd4 I 0.ctJe2 After I O.cxd4 W/xd2i' 1 1 . lt>xc\2 ctJxd4+ Whire docs not have enough compensation for a pawn.

a b e d e r g h

Chapter 1 9 - Introduction 253

1 0 . . . dxc3 l l .CLJxc3 l l .Wf xc3 CLlg6!+

l 1 . . .CLlxe5 1 2.CLJb5 Wfxd2t 1 3.iixd2 iid7+ White has good compensation for one pawn,

but he is down by two!

A) 8.Wig4?!

'l11is move does not make much sense in conjunction with a3-a4. Compared with the main 7.Wf g4 line White is almost a tempo down, and it is hardly surprising that Black has more than one good reply.

8 ... 0-0 Another tempting idea is 8 . . . Wf c7, intending

to enter the Poisoned Pawn Variation with the extra tempo . . . CLibc6 included. Black has excellent chances here too, but I decided to focus on the more straightforward option.

9.ctJf3 f6 10.ie2 1 0.exfG E1.xf6+

10 ... fXe5 1 I .tllxe5 l 1 .dxe5 lLig6+

13.dxeS Wf c7!i=

Black was poised to pick up a pawn Ill Stachanczyk - Pichugin, Warsaw 1 999.

B) 8.f4

a b c d e f g h

This move is rare and somewhat anti­positional, but not completely without merit. White blocks the path of the c l -bishop and creates some holes in his camp which Black may be able to exploit in the future. On the other hand White's centre is well protected and he has a significant space advantage. To counter this Black should rely on his superior development, light-square control and activity along the c-file.

8 ... Wia5 'Il1is is a natural start, luring White's dark­

squared bishop away from the a3-f8 diagonal.

9.id2 id7 10.tllfJ V!ff c7 Black intends . . . CLJa5 with play along the

c-file as well as the c4-square.

1 O . . . c4 has been played a few times, and offers Black a couple of interesting plans. One idea is to target the weak a4-pawn with . . . CLJc8-b6. Another is . . . 0-0 followed by . . .f6 and . . . �e8-g6. Overall this looks like a playable alternative, but closing the centre also makes i t easier for White to make plans for the middlegame, so

254 7.a4

in the end I prefer to keep the queenside more fluid.

1 1 .�d3 llia5 1 2.0-0 llic4 gives Black promising counrerplay on the light squares. In the event of an exchange on c4, Black's bishop will find a great home on c6 while the knight may benefit from the d5-square.

1 1 . • . 'lla5 12.'lld4 1 2.�e3 can be met by 1 2 . . . b6!� when Black's

counterplay along the c-file and control over the c4-square compensate for the pawn deficit.

12 ... WfxcS 13.ctJb3 'llxb3 14.cxb3 We have been following the game Van

Gils - Hofman, Hengelo 1 994. White has straightened out his pawn structure and would love to achieve a harmonious set-up with bishops on d3 and d4, but for the time being he is underdeveloped and I found a promising way for Black to fight for the initiative.

1 5.b4 I 5.c4 a5! blocks White's activity on the

queenside, while Black intends . . . llif5 and . . . �c6 with a nice position.

1 5 ... Wfc?! 1 5 . . . 'Wd5?! does not turn out so well after

1 6.c4 'We4"!" 1 7.\tif2;l;. Black's activity has come to an end and White's bishop pair secures a slight edge.

16.cxd4 1 6.E:c I dxc3 1 7 .1"i:xc3 'Wb6 is fine for Black,

whose pieces will find good homes on the light squares.

After I 6.c4 Black should continue l 6 . . . �c6! I 7.'Wc2 (or I 7.b5?! �e4 I 8 .'We2 �g6+) 1 7 . . . b6 securing the long diagonal for the bishop with good chances.

Chapter 1 9 - Introduction 255

18 ... �c6iii Black's excellenr control over the light squares

combined with his developmenr advanrage and superior piece coordination guaranrees full compensation for the sacrificed pawn.

C) 8.aS!?

'D1is remarkable move has scored an impressive 6Y2/7 games according co my database. For chis reason it should be taken seriously, although I don't chink Black needs co be overly worried about it. White gives up his

a-pawn in order to avoid any ... \Wa5 ideas. "Ibis way he will gee active councerplay on the a-file as well as better piece coordination.

8 ... CllxaS "CT1e most principled decision, after which it

is up to White to prove his compensation.

9.°1Wg4 White has also cried:

9 .tllf3 cxd4 1 0.cxd4 At chis poinr Black elected to castle in Viola - Monopoli, Italy 1 969, but I would prefer to improve Black's position on che queenside before giving White a clear target.

8 ;g.j_,�·� �� 7 w�l�} ;�l1�?l•y 6 , %.�.,.- %� s � � , w� B 4

" "?%.��L "• �. � ·.!a•VJwfj

� v %% "';;,: �//, ;:r,{- %'ti/ . , ; 1� �'iV��j,�.J: a b e d e f g h

1 O . . . tllc4N l l .�d3 l l .�xc4?! dxc4 1 2 .tllg5 tllf5 1 3 .c3 h6 l 4.tlle4 ( l 4.\Wh5 0-0 l 5 .tlle4 b5+) l 4 . . . b5 gives Black somewhat better play.

l l . . .b5 1 2.0-0 \Wb6 White's activity and bishop pair give him

about enough compensation for the pawn deficit. Black should be careful not to cascle prematurely, which could allow a macing attack with �xh7t. Instead he should either prepare castling with . . . h6 or keep the king in the centre for a while longer.

9 • • . °1Wc7!N This soon transposes to a known game, but

it is a more accurate move order that reduces White's options.

256 7 .a4

9 . . . cxd4 I O.'Wxg7 l'!g8 I I .'Wxh7 'Wc7 has occurred in practice, but this move order allows White the additional possibil ity of I O.cxd4.

a b c d e f g h I0.°1Wxg7 ggs l 1.°1Wxh7 cxd4 12.lLle2

This position occurred in Pernuli - Janse, corr. 1 992, and here I found an improvement for Black.

8 ,�,!,Bf!�i JI] : ,:'"' 4 °��1 ".8. 3 m n m u 2 m[jm���� Z '"" %1':'0 �,/,, ''/_,; � �� m ��m�

a b c d e f g h

12 . • • lLlac6!N We have reached an interesting and rather

funny position. Compared with the Poisoned Pawn Variation one might wonder if the a3-pawn has fallen off the board! TI1is difference is not as advantageous for Black as it sounds, since the route to a3 is open for the bishop and the rook on a l has considerably more freedom than usual. A possible continuation is:

13.f4 �d7 14.°1Wd3 dxc3 1 5.°1Wxc3 gcs 'Ibe game is roughly balanced and can be

compared with the positions arising from the Poisoned Pawn variation, covered in Volume 2. I do not believe Black's chances are harmed by the absence of a pawn on a3 here.

D) 8.h4

a b c d e f g h 'Il1is has some similarities to 7.h4, although

one important difference is that here Black does not have the option of the queen manoeuvre to a4. 'Therefore we should look for another set-up trying to make use of the lead in development.

8 • • • °IWaS Even with the a4-square unavailable, there

are other reasons to favour this move.

9.�d2 °1Wc7! I only found a single practical example of

this move, but I l ike the idea a lot. From the cl-square the queen guards the queenside and eyes the e5-pawn, lending greater force to a future .. .f6 break. But why go to a5 first and lose a tempo? Actually Black should be quite happy to have lured the enemy bishop to d2 here. For one thing, it is further away from the a3-f8 diagonal. It also interferes with the queen's defence of the d4-pawn. Finally, a

Chapter 1 9 - Introduction 257

future . . . l2ia5-c4 manoeuvre will carry greater weight when hitting rhe bishop on d2.

9 . . . 0-0?! is not advisable as after 1 0.h5 h6 l 1 .iWg4 (or l l .g4) White has a dangerous attack.

-The usual move has been 9 . . . �d7 as played by Ganguly and others. Most games have continued 1 O.h5 h6 l l .l2if3 when Black can choose berwcen l l . . .c4 and 1 1 . . .0-0-0 with mutual chances in both cases. However, having srudied a few games I am more sympathetic to White's side of the position.

1 0.�,b5N a6 l l .�xc6t l2ixc6 1 2 .'.Wg4 f6! 1 3 .exf6 gxf6 is comfortable for Black, who has a strong pawn centre. Apart from rhe obvious idea of . . . e5, Black can also aim for kingside activity with . . . iWf7 and . . . E:g8.

10 ... 0-0!N Now that White has committed himself to

l2if3 his queen is slightly off the road for an attack. Black can thus castle securely, although he should still be careful.

1 O . . .f6 l l .exf6 gxf6 occurred in Rantanen -Farago, Helsinki 1 983, and here l 2.dxc5!N e5 l 3.l2ih2 intending l2ig4 would have given White some activity and perhaps a slight advantage.

l l .�d3 Threatening a standard sacrifice on h7.

l l .. . h6! A move worth remembering. This eliminates

most of White's tactical threats on the kingside and is a common idea in many Winawer positions.

12.0-0 l 2.h5 f6 l 3.exf6 E:xf6=

l 2 ... c4 13.�e2 f6 l 4.exf6 ihf6= Black is doing fine, as he has a decent amount

of activity while White's bishops are restricted to a minimum. For a deeper study of positions featuring this pawn structure I refer the reader to the 7.iWg4 0-0 8.�d3 f5 variation, analysed in Volume 2.

E) 8.�bS

In this somewhat unusual line White prepares to exchange his light-squared bishop for an enemy knight, perhaps in the hope of attacking on the dark squares in the future.

258 7.a4

8 . • . 'Wa5 8 . . . a6N 9.�xc6t ltJxcG seems playable, but

I would prefer to exchange the bishop off slightly later, ideally in a way that does not involve weakening the qucensidc structure.

9.i.d2 i.d7 9 . . . 0-0 also looks sensible.

lO.liJe2 I O.ltJf3 is covered under the move order

8 .ltJf3 '1Wa5 9 .�d2 �c!7 I O.�bS - sec Chapter 22, beginning on page 29 1 .

I O.'\Wg4!?N 'Il1is is an interesting novelty for White, attempting to make use of the delayed devclopmcnr of the king's knight.

I 0 . . . ltJfS 'Il1is looks like the safest continuation. Castling should generally be avoided in such positions, unless Black is in a position to hit back with .. JG or . . JS in the near future. Here is an illustrative line showing the dangers: I 0 . . . 0-0?! l I .ltJf3 c4 l 2.h4! ltJxcS 13 .dxeS �xbS 1 4.hS �c6 1 S .h6 g6 1 6.'\Wf4 '1Wd8 1 7.0-01 Black has chronic dark-square weaknesses and his extra pawn only restricts his pieces, especially his bishop.

a b c d e f g h 1 1 .ltJf3

1 l .�d3 hS 1 2.'IWgS 'IWdS forces a queen exchange and is fine for Black.

1 l . . .c4 1 2.0-0 0-0= Black is still under some pressure on the

kingside, but his position is solid and he has the better pawn structure. It is important to remember to break with . . . f6 or . . JS before White's kingsidc ini tiative becomes too threatening. 'Il1is will also give the d7-bishop a route to freedom via e8 and g6.

Returning to the main line, White is preparing a future attack with the knight on h5. Another idea is to overprotect the c3-pawn, thus enabling the bishop to move after White has castled. On the other hand the knight does not support the eS-poinr, which suggests that playing for a quick . . JG break might be a good idea for Black.

8 :1 m m•m �i% 7 m i U.i.a<i�� i 6 : •1•l•;· 5 � � {ef� ' fef[J: u 4 ?,���

;; - -�� - - - - �- %-3 ��� ,-�.� ��" 'm'-"�M�M" 2 D�ifii8ft

a b c d e f g h 10 ... 0-0 1 1 .0-0 1Mf c7!

111e queen has served her purpose on aS , and the time has come for her to return to base to support the .. .fG break in the centre. By protecting the d7-bishop, Black also sets up the idea of . . . ltJaS to get control over the c4-square.

12.�g5 h6 13.�f4 So far we have been following the game

Schlick - Von Herman, Germany 1 990, and here I found a strong idea for Black.

Chapter 1 9 - Introduction 259

8 ;;�.,,, ,,•% "//��:1tm 7 �.1% .t. �.llj: .f. t� 6 / . . . /,m/i)n//.t. u/ .. . . /,�1

m �p �·�m � !r�#{J.�. 3 m n" m m 2 m b mttJ� b �� I� ·� � - '(/·�,{ �� �ij� g �

a b c d e f g h 13 ... 'LiaS!N

Now White is unable co avoid the exchange of bishops, and Black will gain an excellent outpost on c4 for his knight.

14.'Wcl �b5 15.axhS Wh7 Black has the more comfortable game and

intends ... l2'lc4 next.

F) 8.lllf3

8 .1m.tS,•�, �� 7 wT• '•Tf'�.t.' 6 :•J1':�=· s m ;r• · ;ra. m 4

l�L . . %wti , . , . %��%� � },,.,,% � � 3 m � Ut2JU 2 nbu � b � :'""� % /;; �,;: /� � �� �Vmil� g

a b c d e f g h 'I11is is rhe main l ine by foe 'I11e same position

has also been reached many rimes via rhe move order 7.ctJf3 tLlbcG 8 .a4 although, as we have already seen, my own recommendation is to meet 7.ctJf3 with 7 . . . h6. 'Ihe following short section is intended ro introduce the main options and quickly deal with a couple of rare

lines. ll1e meatier pares of chis rich variation will come in the following chapters.

8 . .. 'WaS Once again I favour this square for rhe

queen. We will conclude the present chapter by considering a rare sideline for White, before moving on to the two main moves in lacer chapters.

9 . .ib5 9.\Wd2 is an important line which can be

found in the next chapter beginning in two pages.

9 .. �.d2 is rhe main line and is analysed extensively in Chapters 2 1 -23.

Finally, !er us briefly note char 9.ie2? is an error in view of9 . . . ctJxd4!+.

9 ... cxd4

8 .1m.tm•n �� 1 w 1. m �tw 1. : �!if�·;· 4 '6'� �- '� �� 3 .�o '•!•� 2 m b m � b � f "� �;� �/ /� � P,� �ii� � g

a b c d e f g h 10.0-0!?N

'I11is seems like the most interesting way of handling the position, sacrificing two pawns for the initiative.

1 0 .\Wxd4 id? l l .\Wd3 was played in Brandstaerrer - Konrad, Ausuia 2000, and now after 1 1 . . . aGN 1 2 .ixcG ixc6 1 3 .ctJd4 We? 14 .f4 0-0= Black has no problems.

260 7.a4

IO ... dxc3 I Lia3 lhe bishop is extremely powerful and White's

initiative should not be underestimated. Black needs to find a way to consolidate and catch up in development before he can make his extra material count.

13.tDd4 1 3 .�xe??! <;fJxe7 1 4.tlid4 gives White some

initiative, but Black should not worry too much as the troublesome bishop has departed. 1 4 . . . �d? I 5.'®g4

but Black enjoys a positional advantage in the endgame.

13 ... cS 14.tDb3 Vfic7 1 5.Vfiel I 5 .'®e2 a5! is good for Black.

Another n ice line continues: I 5 .�xc5 '®xe5 1 6.�d4 '®c7 1 7.�xg? l'!g8 1 8.�f6 '\Wf4 I 9.�xc3 d4! With some initiative for Black, who intends . . . �b7 next.

s XR.i.•m•R �� 1 R � - • m i 6 Tn ,,_., _. ,,. s m m · � m 4 �m% . . . % ____ _ _ %R �-

%:���n; R � � �i%·��%8 p� � �:n� a b c d e f g h

IS .. . d4 16.hcS .ib7 17J:!:dl 1 7 .�xd4 0-0 gives Black a pleasant game

with counterplay along the a8-h 1 diagonal.

17 ... tDfS= Black is still unable to castle, but he keeps a

solid position and an extra pawn for the time being. As soon as White captures on d4 Black will be able to castle, so he has little to fear.

Conclusion

In this chapter we have dealt with an assortment of sidelines that can occur after 7.a4 llibc6. In most cases Black will begin by developing his queen to a5 and then strive for counterplay, relying on thematic factors such as control over the light squares and a timely . . . f6-break.

7.a4 9.�d2

Variation Index 1.e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.tllc3 i.b4 4.eS cS S.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 tlle7

7.a4 tllbc6 s.tllf.3 '.Was 9.'.Wd2

A) lOJ�bl!? B) 10.h4!? C) 10.dxcS D) 10.i.bS E) 10.i.a3 F) 10.i.e2 �cs

Fl) 1 1 .dxcS F2) 1 1.0-0

G) 10.i.d3 f6! Gl) 1 1 .exf6 gxf6

Gl l) 12.0-0 G12) 12.dxcS

G2) 1 1 .0-0 fxeS G21) 12.tllxeS G22) 12.dxeS

D) after 1 4.llld3

1 4 . . . 'i!lf7!N

9 ... i.d7

F2) after 12 .W/g5! G22) nocc co 1 3 .E'lcl

263 264 264 265 266 268 268 269 272 272 273 275 276 276 277

262 7 . a4

I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ClJc3 �b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 ctJe7 7.a4 Cl'ibc6 8.ctJf.3 °1Wa5 9.°1Wd2

8 .i-.i.-·� �� �·?�� % '"/���·� 1 r� • • � • r� • 6 .. """"mER&"W�"" ' "�

� r:.w.� & w.� � 5 �51� �-% . i0% � 4 /,�/,� . , . , ,/.�_ , . ,/,- %�

3 W1 ��''•·� �� ' ��' ', . .. ,�©' �l*f" 2 %"'" ��;ll!l��c:·�fll�jl3% �� � ��.i,-� a b c d e f g h

9.�d2 can be found in the next three chapters. The queen move has not been played as frequencly bur is, in a sense, more principled, as White is intending to develop h is bishop on the more active a3-square.

9 ... �d7 This is my preferred move, and it has been

by far the most popular choice in the position.

I checked a few other approaches, including the following line: 9 . . . b6

As we already know, exchanging lighr­squared bishops is a strong plan which has the potential to solve most of Black's opening problems. However, with the a4-square unavailable the black queen may find herself short of space.

10 .ibS! The critical move, playing against the queen.

I O ... �a6 1 1 .l:!b I 0-0 I I . . . .ixb5 I 2.axb5 lllb8 1 3.0-0tAlkkiomaki - Saharinen, Manna 2008.

1 2.0-0 l:!fc8 This is a logical continuation, preparing to open the c-file.

1 2 . . . cxd4? is poor: I 3 .'\Mfd3! .ixb5? (I 3 . . . dxc3 is better, bur after l 4 . .ixa6 ll'ib4 I 5 .l:!xb4 ®'xb4 16 .lllgS± White has a material advantage plus excellent piece activity.) 1 4.axbS lllb8 I 5.cxd4 White has an overwhelming position which frankly speaking is actually al ready winning, Shishkin - Zilber, Baku 1 958 . 12 . . . .ixbS!?N might be playable, bur after 1 3.axbS lllb8 I 4.\!;lf d3 (the aggressive 1 4.\!;lfgS!? might also prove unpleasant) I 4 . . . c4 I 5 .\!;lf d2;!; White's advantage is indisputable. One nice point is chat I 5 . . . a6 can be met by I 6.ia3!.

a b c d e f g h 1 3.\!;lfd3!

A strong move with the purpose of luring the black pawn to c4.

1 3 . . . h6!?N I 3 ... ib7?! 1 4.lllgS lllg6 I 5.f4 gave White a powerful attack in Korneev - Lutz, Basel 20 1 I . 1 3 . . . c4 1 4.\!;lfe2t favours White, who is now free to attack on the kingside. lhe text move is a clever defence, bur ultimately White still keeps the advantage.

l 4.lllh4! Stronger than 1 4.ixa6 c4 1 5 .ixc4 dxc4 I 6.\!;lfe4 ®'xa4 when Black seems to be doing fine.

l 4 . . . ll'ib8 This seems to be the best move, defending the bishop on a6 in order to create counterplay

Chapter 20 - 9.iWd2 263

along the c-file. However, White can still pose problems on the kingside.

1 5 .�d2 �xb5 1 6.axbS \Wa4 1 7.Elal \Wc4 1 8 .\Wg3 ©h8

a b c d e f g h Returning co the position after 9 . . . �d7,

I analysed seven moves: A) 10.13bl!? , B) 10.h4!?, C) 10.dxcS, D) 10.ihs, E) 10.ia3, F) 10.ie2 and G) 10.id3. The first four are extremely rare (though by no means bad) , the fifth is somewhat more common and the last two can be considered main lines.

A) 10.13hl!?

'This is quite a logical move, although it has only been tried once according to my database.

10 ... b6N

1 0 . . . cxd4 l l . cxd4 \Wxd2t 1 2.�xd2t was a bit unpleasant for Black in Estrin - Khasin, Moscow 1 955, especially as .. . CLlaS is not possible.

a b c d e f g h 1 1 .ihS a6 12.ie2

1 2.�xc6 �xc6 1 3 .0-0 0-0=

12 ... 0-0 13.0-0 1 3.E1al can be met by 1 3 . . . b5! 1 4.dxc5 \Wc7

l 5.axb5 axb5 with equality. 1 3.�a3 Wxa4 1 4.E1a l ctJa5 1 5 .dxc5 bxc5

1 6.0-0 \Wc6 is also about level.

13 ... Wfxa4 14.13xb6 c4 If White could conveniently get a rook to a l

and bishop to a3 he would be doing well, but as things stand I like Black's chances. I have included a few illustrative lines below.

264 7.a4

15.ib2 Was 16.�b? icB 17.�al Wxalt l 7 . . . W/d8 1 8 .:8.bS id7 might be playable,

but gaining two rooks for a queen is a good trade here.

18.ixal hb7 With a slight material advantage and a

strong passed pawn, Black is more than okay.

B) 10.h4!?

Here is another extremely rare move which nonetheless deserves some attention. Advancing the h-pawn is useful in many situations, and White is waiting to decide how to develop the light-squared bishop depending on Black's reaction.

10 ... �cS l O . . . cxd4 l l .cxd4 W/xd2t l 2.ixd2 CLJfS

l 3.�c3 Elc8 1 4. 'ktid2 was slightly better for White in Mainka - Hoefker, Reckl inghausen 1 995.

l l .id3 F. Petersen - Kjeldsen, Randers 1 99 1 . Wirh

the rook already on c8, this would have been a more suitable rime for Black to initiate exchanges:

l l ...cxd4N 12.cxd4 Wxd2t 13.hd2 1 3 .Wxd2 Cllb4 1 4.ia3 Cllxd3 1 5 .cxd3 Cllc6=

8 W:im•a �� 1 W i W.t� i%W'iY, 6 , 'nlr1f.t. n 'n s m � ·� � 4 fg�o' 'D�D 3 a mj,,a�• 2 W 8 � W� 8 -r -� %'.*.�-- -�/'[7,f- - - - %� %'. r� � �; � n

a b c d e f g h 13 ... ltJf5

Played at a time when the bishop cannot go to c3 for tactical reasons.

14.ixf5 1 4 .c3 should of course be met by 1 4 . . . CllaS

wirh nice prospects for Black on the queenside.

14 ... exf5 1 5.0-0 ltJd8!= Intending . . . Elc4 with sufficient counterplay.

C) 10.dxcS

This time White wrecks his own pawn structure in an attempt to open the position for his bishops.

10 . . . llJgG

Chapter 20 - 9 . 'W d2 265

Black can also consider 1 O ... 'Wc7!? as played in Massoni - Moskalenko, Barbera del Valles 2009.

l l .Wfe3 l I .c4 'llgxe5 l 2. 'llxe5 'Wxdlt l 3.�xd2

'llxe5 1 4.cxd5 exd5 1 5 .�c3 ( 1 5 .a5 a6=) 1 5 .. .f6 1 6.�b5 0-0-0 1 7.0-0-0 �c6 was equal in Kovacs - Molnar, Hungary 2005.

1 1 . • . Wfc? 12.'lld4 l 2.c4 'llb4! works well for Black, for

instance: 1 3.'Wd2?! ( 1 3.'Wc3 a5t; 1 3.�d3 �c6 14.0-0 dxc4 1 5 .�e4 0-0=)

Returning co the main l ine, I would like co improve on Black's play in Todorovic -Dragicevic, Serbia 2006.

12 ... llJcxeSN 13.tllb5 Lb5 14.LbSt 14 .axb5?! 0-0 favours Black.

14 ... .!2Jc6 15.0-0 0-0 Black is at least equal. He has by far the

superior pawn struccure and White's bishops do not look coo threatening.

D) IO.i.b5

"fl1is move allows a tactical blow in the centre.

10 ..• .!2Jxe5! l I .tllxe5 Lb5 12.i.a3 i.a6! It is important co keep the bishop on the a6-

fl diagonal in order co prevent the white king from escaping co g 1 .

13.Lcs f6 I also considered 1 3 . . . 'W c7!?N planning short

castling and perhaps . . . b6. Play continues: l 4.'Wg5 This looks like the only critical test. (Black is fine after 1 4.'lld3 b6 1 5 .�b4 �xd3 I 6.cxd3 0-0 intending . . . l:%fe8 or . . . l:%fc8.) l 4 .. . 'llg6 l 5 .'llxg6 hxg6 1 6 . ©d2! 1his appears co be an excellent square for the king. The position should be fine for Black, but doesn't entirely appeal co me in view of White's activity with the queen and bishop.

14 . .!2Jd3

266 7.a4

s :iB �·- �� 1 �i� � Wi '.f��-,. ,� 6 �" ";��;��L .. %� � 5 � � · - � 4 /,�%� ,,,., ,Y,,� %�

3 ��•ttJ•�-� �. ,, ;;;0A0,,, 2 .-�,� a b c d e f g h

14 . . . �f7!N 111is move is more flexible than 1 4 . . . ll:ic6

1 5 .0-0 ©f7 1 6.!'ffe l l:i:he8 as played in Mnatsakanian - Korchnoi, Yerevan 1 965, after which 1 7.l:i:e3!N gives White a slight initiative.

1 5.0-0 ghe8 16.gfel V!fc7= Black has no problems and intends . . . ll:ig6

next.

E) IO • .ia3

With this move White occupies the a3-f8 diagonal but allows Black to exchange queens in relatively favourable circumstances.

10 ... cxd4 I 1 .cxd4 V!fxd2t 12.�xd2 lllf5

1 2 . . . ElcS 1 3.id3 ll:ia5 1 4.l:i:hb l f6 1 5 .©e2 ©f7 was equal in Anand - Levitt, London 1 987. Nevertheless, I think it is useful co attack d4 in order co provoke a sl ight weakening of White's queenside.

a b c d e f g h 13.c3

White can also avoid the weakening pawn move with 1 3.ib2. It looks rather passive, although Black should take care not to allow a4-a5 on the next move. 1 3 . . . llla5 I 4.ic3 lhe most logical continuation. ( 1 4.ia3N might lead co a repetition of moves, but Black can also play on in an equal position with 14 . . . l:i:cS.)

8 .:i� ·�· t� 7 �i �.i.· · -· 6 . • � .,.,,,,,,-5 � � · �i-4

»l'.i �

��f

z • . Wi� 3 • w •�a

2 B � � �� �� I �m� •.. ,,�,.f-i a b c d e f g h

1 4 . . . ll:ic4t I 5.ixc4 dxc4 1 6.ib4 ic6 Having opened up a nice diagonal for his bishop, Black has no problems. "The opposite-coloured bishops bring drawish tendencies, but there is still a long fight ahead.

Chapter 20 - 9. WI d2 267

1 3 .Ei'.b 1 b6 l 4.ia6!?N is an interesting new idea I considered. ( l 4.c3 ctJa5 l 5 .ib4 lLic4 t l 6.ixc4 dxc4 1 7 .a5 ic6 was equal in Marovic Fernandez - Shaked, Groningen 1 997.)

s .i. B B�� �E! %% ;:(,;//; %% ?' . . . . ( 7 � B.tB i�� i 6 �t�lilB i U B s B B i t�lilB 4 8 B � g B 3 � B BttJB 2 B 8 � � 8 t� i BMB B BM

a b c d e f g h 1 4 . . . lLia5!= This positional move is safest. ( Instead after 14 . . . Clifxd4 1 5 .lLixd4 lLixd4 1 6.a5! White has a promising initiative, for instance 1 6 . . . ctJc6 [ 1 6 . . . bxa5 1 7.Ei'.b7t] 1 7.axb6 axb6 1 8 .Ei'.xb6 ctJxe5 1 9.Ei'.hb l t with plenty of counterplay for the sacrificed pawn.)

14 .. . �cS 14 .. . f6!? 1 5 .id3N Clic4t 1 6.ixc4 dxc4

l 7.a5= is also possible.

1s . .ihs

l 5 .ib4 was punished by l 5 . . . Clib3t! 1 6.Wdl a5 l 7.!a3 ixa4+ in Curi - Filgurh, San Jose 1 989.

8 mxm�m �� 7 tl i m.t.m i t1 i 6 m m i • m 5 61�� ' �'i)� 4 "lli D DU' "U DD

�/';; �·% m · m 3 ·11�w/)l�8"¥!1i � •···�,r� a b c d e f g h

15 . . . a6 16.hd7t 'it>xd7 Black has achieved one of his primary goals

in exchanging the light-squared bishops, so he should be optimistic about his chances.

17. 'it>d3 1 7.Ei'.b l occurred in Reyes - De la Villa,

corr. 1 990, and here l 7 . . . b6!N is a good improvement as pointed out by Warson.

'Ihe main move was played in Schmittdicl -Vanheste, Ostend 1 99 1 . Here I suggest the novelty:

268 7.a4

17 ... b6N Preventing White from establishing an

outpost on b6. "The continuation might be:

18.gbl gc6 19.g4 t!lJe7 Black has somewhat better prospects in view

of his compact pawn structure, outpost on c4 and pressure along the half-open c-file.

F) 10.�e2

8 ;im m•m �� 1 Wr�j_•rm, 6 : :-1•:.t;�:;· 5 � 1� i 1£!1 � 4 �ti�m�-- .Jd···Jm %m 3 .�.,,.�.� 2 � ��L���� 1 tt1r8u "-�r "B11 �-- - -� �" � �/, _ , ,� m I

a b c d e f g h 10 .. . gcs

Preparing to open the c-file. The value of having the rook already in place is revealed if we compare the immediate exchange: I O . . . cxd4 I l .cxd4 \Wxd2t 1 2.�xd2 ll:if5 111e important nuance is chat White can play 1 3 .�c3! avoiding weakening himself with c2-c3 while preventing the black knight from coming to a5. White has the more pleasant game and should be able to press for a long time.

Afcer the rook move White's two main replies are Fl) 1 1 .dxcS and F2) 1 1 .0-0.

I I .�a3 has scored highly but seems relatively harmless afcer: I 1 . . .cxd4 1 2.cxd4 \Wxd2t 1 3.Wxd2 ll:ia5

s UE••U �� 7 •r�-*-�'� ' 6 : �=·�4��"· � �-�11££�-�� 3 � � �lt}� � :;--,n:� • W-'%1 £?!.'-"'

� ���1�1r££�ri a b c d e f g h

Black gees his typical queenside play, with an open c-file and outpost on c4. Afcer the logical I 4.�hb I Black should continue with I 4 .. . f6!= intending . . . Wf7 with a solid position, as seen in Abramovic - Maksimovic, Vrnjacka Banja I 983, and several subsequent games. (le should, however, be noted chat the 'automatic' I 4 . . . b6 unnecessarily weakens Black's queenside and gives White some activity afcer I 5 .�a6i.)

Fl) 1 1 .dxcS

111is is a logical way to prevent Black's plan. The downside is of course chat White's pawn structure is damaged and the e5-pawn becomes especially weak. It is worth emphasizing chat the pawn on c5 should be lefc standing for a while, as capturing it would allow White's dark-squared bishop to become active on a3.

Chaprer 20 - 9 .\Wd2 269

l 1. .. \Wc7!? l l . . .ttJg6 has been more popular, bur againsr

rhar move White has scored quite well after sacrificing the e5-pawn.

12.0-0 This was White's choice in the one game I

found. Herc are a few ocher sample l ines:

1 2.llld4N ttJxe5 1 3.ttJb5 �xb5 1 4.axb5 \Wxc5 l 5 .\Wd4 ttJc4=

1 2.We3N ttJf5 ( 1 2 . . . t2Jg6 1 3 .ttJd4!) 1 3 .'Wf4 ttJce7= Intending . . . lllg6, winning the e5-pawn after all.

12 ... tbxeS 13.lllxeS Wfxe5 14.:1!bl Wfc7 The position remained balanced in Peterson

- Seidel, corr. 2008. White has the pair of bishops while Black has a clearly better pawn structure.

F2) 1 1 .0-0

12.WfgS! White is ready to sacrifice a few pawns for

active piece play. So far the idea has netted him

four wins out of four, bur forrunarely Black's play can be improved.

1 2.cxd4 is solid bur harmless: 1 2 . . . \Wxd2 l 3.�xd2 lllf5 Now White is committed to the undesirable defensive pawn move on rhe queenside. l 4 .c3 llla5= Black has a sound position with his usual counterplay, Ragozin -Borvinnik, Moscow 1 944.

8 m.im•m �� 7 � l� t•t��-·Y. 6 : '•I-:.\•: ,:• 5 � ·- 1. �!S ,� 4 �{i�� �---j-L,,��

3 �ri '•�-� 2 m £'.J m1l� l'.J t�

�m m agm a b c d e f g h

12 . . . lllfS!N This new move is the only one to meet rhc

demands of the position. Now both g7 and d4 are defended. Black's ocher ideas include exchanging queens by playing . . . \Wd8 or kicking the queen away from g5 wirh .. . h6. Before going any further, I would like to present a summary of rhe alrernarives ro enable rhe reader to appreciare White's arracking resources.

1 2 . . . 0-0 l 3 .�d3!t Pernishki - Bukal, Pernik 1 977.

1 2 ... lllg6 1 3.cxd4 \Wc3 14 .E1a3! forces Black to give up his queen: 14 . . . lllxd4 1 5 .f1xc3 lllxe2t 1 6.\t>h l lllxc3 Black has some compensation, bur my feeling is char White should be able to prove an advantage, and indeed the following correspondence game resulted in a quick victory for him:

270 7.a4

8 ·:i··· �� 7 ll�-z!•,+ ll•, 6 • ••• lj). 5 . · · � � 4 � · • • • 3 � � �QJ� 2 �.�,� -���:t� I � � •:g•@

a b c d e f g h 1 7.h4! E!c4 1 8 .h5 icG 1 9 .hG llle7?? 111is move loses the game, but in any case Black had a difficult task. 20.Wxg7 E!g8 2 1 .Wxh7 1''kg4 22.ig5 @fg 23.Wd3 llle4 24.ifG E!8g6 25.ig?i" Bucze - Klewe, corr. 1 985 .

1 2 . . . Wxc3 Grabbing a few pawns on the queenside is a critical test, but unfortunately White's compensation appears to be more than sufficient.

1 3 .:ga3! Wxc2 1 4.id3 WcS l 5 .Wxg7 :gg8 1 6.Wxh7 lllb4

Skokov - Kurbasov, USSR 1 976. Here I found a strong novelty for White:

a b c d e f g h 1 7.h4!N

"fhe game continuation of 1 7.igS ?! is rather messy but ultimately good for Black. l11e analysis is interesting but not really relevant to the theory so I will focus on the stronger move.

1 7 . . . Wxc l ! 111e best try, but ultimately not quite enough.

1 8 .E!xc1 :gxc H 1 9 . <;ti h2 E!c3 20 .E!xc3 dxc3 Black has two dangerous passed pawns and threatens . . . ixa4.

8 . • ••• :i. 7 �I. ·.i.- 1. .'ii' 6 � ·· � � �& � /:40 � 5 . · · � • 4 A :.�� �;; �; ?rN? o m � � :::cf r,. . . . . • '/$); 7� z ; 3 . ��-QJ· 2 ,w;�r z• ,%,� l� I .�. ,�.: >��l ;

a b c d e f g h 2 1 .ic2!;1;

·n1is move seems to promise an advantage for White. If Black cannot create counterplay with his passed queenside pawns, White's h-pawn is likely to decide the game. (The text move is stronger than 2 1 .lllgS E!xgS! 22.hxgS �xa4 23 .Wh4 aS 24.Wh8t @d7 25 .\Wa8 lllxd3 26.Wxb7t 'itie8 27.WaM @d7= when White should settle for a perpetual .)

Chapter 20 - 9.1Mf d2 27 1

a b c d e f g h 1 6 . . . Clixd4! 1 7.Ei:xc3 lllxe2t 1 8 .<Jih l ( 1 8.<Jig2? Ei:xc3 is even worse as there are forking motifa on f4.) l 8 . . . Ei:xc3 White's queen is now offside and his king's defences have been weakened by the g2-g4 move. Black has excellent piece coordination and his position is close to winning.

13 . . . 1Wd8! Another instructive moment.

l 3 . . . h6 l 4 .1Mlg4 h5 is strongly met by: l 5 .\Wf4! ( l 5 .�g5 \Wd8 1 6.\Wxd8'1" Ei:xd8 l 7 .. �xf5 exf5 1 8 .cxd4 Ei:c8 1 9 .. �d2 llld8=)

a b c d e f g h Keeping the queens on gives White excellent

compensation even for two pawns. l 5 . . . dxc3 1 6.�.xf5 cxf5 l 7.�.a3 \Wd8 l 8.Clid4i White has a dangerous initiative. -n1e opposite-coloured bishops arc helpful for White's arrack, while also providing a degree of insurance in terms of drawing tendencies in the event char Black

survives to reach an endgame. Thus from a practical perspective Black has a lot to lose and l ittle to gain by venturing chis line.

14.1Wh5 Naturally White should keep the queens on

if he wishes to cause problems.

8 �1.��� �s � >;. , , . % � 0· · ·" 7 �1 1. mJ.m • - • 6 m�m • m m 5 m m ' r.�lj)mii 4 b m - m m 3 m �ilmtZJm 2 m b m r.� �H � · · � m7� � ,,,�·;./ �� � � g ?�

a b c d e f g h 14 ... h6!

A good defensive move that strengthens the dark squares on the kingside in anticipation of an exchange on f5 .

15.ctJxd4 l 5 .cxd4 Clib4! is fine for Black.

1 5 .ig5 \We? 1 6.Ei:fcl should be mer by:

a b c d e f g h 1 6 . . . <Jif8! White was threatening to exchange on f5 and push rhc e-pawn. ( 1 6 . . . 0-0?? would

272 7.a4

run into serious trouble after l 7.g4! with a winning attack for White.) I 7.�d2 dxc3 J 8Jhc3 ctJa5 Chances are roughly balanced; White obviously has some compensation for the sacrificed pawn, bur Black is solid.

8 � :i�•m .

, �� 7 - • R.tm • m . 6 /. . . .

%m�m • m fl m ·m .-��mv 5 �� z �1:"/{' . .

%� %� 4 � - g;zj, �- � 3 m -��- m _ 2 %.-i(m o � � � Q � /. , , , ,% '/ /. , , , , /'.

C-0 -�� � Fr � �� � � § �� a b c d e f g h

1 5 ... g6 16.lllxc6 .!'l:xc6 17.'!Wg4 �xc3 lhe chances are approximately equal. Black

is a pawn up bur White has full compensation thanks to his bishop pair, especially the dark­squared one.

a b c d e f g h 18.�a3

Preventing castling. lbere are no immediate threats, but Black is under a certain amount of pressure. On che other hand he still has an extra pawn and the king may well be able

to seek refuge on che queenside. A plausible continuation is:

18 ... 'IWgS 19.'!Wb4 �c7 20.aS �c6 21 .f4 '!Wd8 With mucual chances. le is worth pointing

our that Black is not only playing in defensive mode; he is now ready for . . . d4 when the bishop on c6 comes to life.

G) 10.�d3

'This is White's mosc active move and has also been the most popular.

10 ... Ri! Since White's pieces are a bit clumsily placed,

chis is a good moment for the central break. '!here are two main options for us to consider: G 1) 1 1 .exffi and G2) 1 1 .0-0.

1 1 j?,a3 has been played quire a few rimes, bur i t doesn't trouble Black. l l . . .fxe5 I 2.ctJxe5 ( 1 2.dxe5?! 0-0 1 3.0-0 cransposes to I 3 .. lka3?! in the note to White's 1 3th move in variation G22 below - see page 277) I 2 . . . ctJxe5 I 3.dxe5 0-0 1 4.0-0 Ei'.f7 = L. Toth - T Kononenko, Paks 20 1 0.

Gl) 1 1 .exffi gxffi

By exchanging pawns Whice hopes to open rhe game for his bishops, but in doing so he

Chapter 20 - 9.®d2 273

gives Black a strong pawn centre. From this position he can either bring his king to safety with G1 1) 12.0-0 or continue the exchanging policy with G12) 12.dxcS.

l 2.�a3 has been played a few times, bur after l 2 . . . c4 l 3.�e2 0-0-0 ( l 3 . . . lLJf5!?) 14 .0-0 we have transposed to line G 1 1 below.

GI I) 12.0-0 c4 13.i.e2 0-0-0

1 3 . . . l2Jf5 !? is also worth considering, in order to resrrict the movement of White's knight. 'Then l 4 .51l.a3 0-0-0 transposes to the main line below, having eliminated the possibility �ven in the next nore.

14.i.a3 This move is the main line by far, but it has

scored badly for White.

14 . l2Jh4!? '!11 is move has only been tried once. Ir deserves attention, although Black can avoid it by switching move orders as mentioned in the note to move 1 3 .

1 4 . . . e5!?N An ambitious move, playing for control in the centre. 14 . . . lLJgG 1 5 .l.!JxgG hxgG 1G .. �a3 W1c7 l 7.f4 :gh7 was equal in Donchev -Lalic, Varna 1 985 .

l 5.j/,a3 1 5 .dxe5 fxe5 1 G .�a3 Ei:hg8 1 7.Ei:fb l lLJf5 1 S .l2Jxf5 �xf5 reaches rhe same position.

15 .�fb l 1 5 .Ei:fe 1 has been played a couple of times. A

good response is 1 5 . . . :gdg8 1 G.�fl h5 1 7.'tt>h l :ggG with kingside pressure and promising play for Black, Rech - Arkhipov, Kecskemet 1 990.

274 7.a4

I 5 .�b4 'l!tlc7 I 6.a5 was seen in Iwaniuk - Szymanski, Koszalin I 999, and here I 6 . . . :ghg8!N would have been logical.

8 ··�� ·�-��( •�-£� 0 0� r 7 �j LJ � � 6 R'i.18 i t� R s � R i Bl.il• 4 � · � -///' • 3 �- - ,,�;: ;��� h'/-'

�i;'Wf'f'A "itxxi��?f'l�:rm 2 � 0 �'§'� � !'."L.J"?' 0 !'."(:_} W#� }-. . . .z % . . . . % % . . . . : �� n n:�� a b c d e f g h

Black holds a slight advantage thanks to his attacking chances on the kingside, as well as solid concrol over the position in general. It's hard for White to find an active plan. Obviously a5-a6 will be met by . . . b6, and the attempt to attack by doubling rooks on rhe b-file can be parried by . . . ©b8 and ... �c8 .

Another game continued: 1 5 .©h l h5 1 6.lL'igl :gdg8 1 7. f4?

1 7.mh 1 N would have been better, keeping the kingside pawns intact. Now Black can apply further pressure by means of l 7 . . . lL'ih4 1 8 .�fl 'l!tfc7 with some kingside ini tiative.

1 7 . . . h4 Velicka - Levitt, Maidstone 1 994. Here it was necessary for White to play:

1 8 .ll:ih3N 111e game continued 1 8 .�c5?? lL'ig3t (this works well, but in fact l 8 . . . e5!N would have been even stronger) 1 9.hxg3 hxg3t 20.ll:ih3 :gxh3t 2 1 .gxh3 g2t 22.©h2 gxfl =lLit 23.�xfl and here 23 . . . 'l!tf c7N looks best. Black has a big advantage in view of his safer king and better pawn structure.

1 8 . . . ll:ifxd4! l 9.�b4 °@b6 20.a5 'l!tfb5 2 l .�e7 lL'ixe7 22.'l!tfxd4 ll:ic6 23.'l!tfxf6 'l!tfb2+

Black keeps an edge here too.

Returning to the main line, Black has several good moves at his disposal but my preference is:

1 5 ... i:l:hgS!?N 1 5 . . . :gdg8 has been the most popular

choice, bur I would prefer to leave that rook in the centre where it may become useful in supporting a future . . . e5 break.

16.@hl l 6.:gb5 'l!tf c7 1 7.:gab 1 b6 does not trouble

Black in the least.

16 .. . 'l!tfc7 111e position is pretty balanced, bur in

my opinion Black has the easier game with counrerplay along the g-file and a strong pawn centre. White's only real plan is to create active

Chapter 20 - 9 .1Mfd2 275

counterplay along the b-file, bur Black can defend easily enough, either with . . . b6 or with . . . �b8 followed by . . . ic8 when necessary.

Gl2) 12.dxcS

12 ... eS 13.ie2 1 3 .l2'lh4 is an old move chat might warrant

furcher investigation, although after 1 3 . . . 0-0-0 1 4.0-0 E:hg8 Black had a strong centre and a fair amount of activity in Hclmreich - Girard, corr. 20 1 1 .

l 3.c4 dxc4 l 4.ixc4 \Wxc5 l 5 .ib3 ( l 5 .!b5 0-0-0 l 6.ia3 Wb6= Zalys - Filipovich, Montreal 1 980) l 5 . . . ctJa5

l 6.ia3 ( l 6.!a2 0-0-0= is mentioned by Watson) l 6 . . . ctJxb3 l 7.cxb3 1Mf d5= Gallagher - Hawksworch, London 1 985.

� Hd�Jf 6 z .

.. . /, •. � I�" �.

5 • • �'*'"'�"'"' '•�

: :•�1:• fflm?<' . . ::./,, .,,;fflw.."- �w.-� 2 - ci ��t§ ci t§ ;: · · ·z ��-;1-- · ·jY'�J· · · - �i!if}·· ·j �� � i� ml:,

a b c d e f g h 13 ... 0-0-0 14.0-0

1 4.c4N has not yet been played, although the same position has arisen a few times with White co move! 'The explanation is chat in che present l ine White's bishop has used two moves co gee co e2. 1 4 . . . \Wxd2t 1 5 .ixd2 ghg8 Black is fine, as shown in the following illustrative lines: l 6.cxd5 ( 1 6.0-0? ig4+; l 6.g3 e4 l 7.cxd5 lLixd5 transposes co 1 6.cxd5) 16 . . . l2Jxd5 1 7.g3 e4 1 8 .ic4 ( 1 8.ctJh4 ltJd4=)

s -·�� -E� 1 � .t a.t• Hi 6 �'))� �� � 5 �-��:� ;��

,,;:%3. i{ ; � ".:0% 4 � -�• • • B 3 • • •li:Jf'� 2 - � � tc1 � /.�f �/, ;1¢{ . ::?0% 'Fl' I �� � ;c'.$; � §

a b c d c r g h l 8 . . . ctJdb4! l 9.ixb4 l2'lxb4 20.ixg8 lLixc2t 2 1 .�d2 ctJxa l 22.ctJd4 E:xg8 23.E:xa l E:g5 Black has sl ightly che easier side of a probable draw.

276 7 .a4

a b c d e f g 11 14 ... ghg8 15.iihl

I 5.g3N is well mer by I 5 . . . ig4!= improving Black's pieces and increasing his central influence.

15 . . . ctJg6 I r's also worth paying attention to the waiting

move I 5 ... 'it>b8!?N. Black keeps the tension while putting his king in a more secure place. Ir is hard for White to find a plan here; his bishops lack power at the moment and Black can use the pawn on c5 as a shield against any counrerplay along the a3-f8 diagonal. A useful resource worth remembering is . . . Ei:g4 attacking the a4-pawn and perhaps preparing to double on the g-file.

16.c4 1 6.Wxd5? is an obvious mistake in view of

1 6 . . . tt'if4 1 7.ixf4 ( 1 7.We4 or 1 7 .. .f5 1 8 .Wc3 tt'ixg2�) I 7 . . . ih3+ as pointed out by Warson.

16 • . . 'Wfxd2 17.ctJxd2N After I 7.ixd2?! e4 I 8.tt'igl d4+ Black had

a very nice initiative in Tringov - Vaganian, Vrn jacka Ban ja I 97 1 .

'TI1e text move is a better try, but Black is still at least equal.

l 7 ... 'llf4 l 8.if3

18 ... Clld4!? 19.ixd5 Cllxd5 20.cxd5 ctJxc2 21 .gbl if5 22.d6 gg4!

'Jhe rook manoeuvre to the queenside guarantees the necessary counrerplay for Black.

G2) 1 1 .0-0 fxe5

After this natural reply White must decide whether or not to exchange a pair of knights. We will thus consider G21) 12.Cllxe5 and G22) 12.dxe5 in turn.

G21) 12.ctJxe5 Cllxe5 13.dxe5 0-0

a b c d e f g h 14.f4!?

'TI1e most popular continuation has been 1 4 .c4, bur after 14 . . . Wxd2 1 5 .�.xd2 d4 followed by .. Ji?.,c6 the position is level, as White's bishop

Chapter 20 - 9 .'Wd2 277

pair advantage is balanced out by his inferior 12 ... 0-0 pawn structure. ( l 5 . . . �c6 has been seen, and Now . . . Ei:xf3 becomes a positional threat. this also looks quite reasonable for Black.)

111e text move has scored highly for White, but I see no reason for Black ro worry.

:i� � %if*� � ��T�/:��--ji r : ; - -:-:���;· 4 ��)�'o•n 3 g�w�f• "n� 2 @In' j#I �. •w� ,,,.}�J�I J��,B,_/��

�� � •:s:m a b c d e f g h

14 . . . �e8!?N 'l11is would be my choice, intending . . . �g6

when the bishop becomes active. Black's position is easy ro play and his chances are by no means worse.

I also checked l 4 . . . b5!? but found l 5 .�a3 !?N bxa4 l 6.f5 ! to be slighcly tricky for Black. According to my analysis the second player should be able to reach a tenable endgame, but I like the main move better.

G22) 12.dxe5

13.E:el White needs to guard the e5-pawn in

anticipation of the exchange sacrifice.

1 3 .\Wg5? Ei:xf3 14 .gxf3 c4 1 5 .�e2 \Wxc3 l 6.Ei:a2 occurred in Lengyel - Renman, Prague 1 979, and now after 1 6 . . . lll f5N Black has total control and a clear advantage.

l 3.�a3?! Ei:xf3! l 4.gxf3 lllxe5 l 5 .\We3 l 5.�e2N lll 5g6+

1 5 . . . lllxd3 1 6.cxd3 Kravtsiv - Vernay, Sibenik 2007. Here I found a strong novelty:

� � � . . 8 i.� .. � -�� :3.l1·� £ � A �ifit;; 0�·�f 7 li" � •• .JL '!!'JI)'. i::.' '!;, • · " '.•rr.)i�-� : ����-:-3 ��,¥��,�:r��w� 2 r id����� j//"J.5 �� . �:�

a b e d e f g h 1 6 . . . lllf5 !N l 7.\Wxc5

This must be the critical move, but it places the queen offside and allows Black to generate dangerous attacking chances. 'The alternative is 1 7. \W e5 \Wa6! 1 8.Ei:fd 1 \Wc6+ when Black has a pawn for the exchange, a much better pawn structure and an excellent outpost for his knight on f5 .

1 7 . . . \Wd8! 1 8 . f4 b6! 1 9.\Wb4 \We8!+ Black has more than enough compensation

in view of White's lack of coordination, weak pawn structure and vulnerable king.

13 . . . h6

278 7.a4

A good prophylactic move, stopping White's possible actions on the kingside. Now White will struggle to find suitable squares for his pieces.

a b c d e f g h 14.�h4

l 4 . .ia3 .ike8 activating the bishop was fine for Black in Smyslov - Uhlmann, Havana 1 964.

l 4.c4 �xd2 l 5 . .ixd2 ttJb4 l 6 . .ixb4 cxb4 l 7.cxd5 lLlxd5 gave Black at least equal prospects in Manca - Menoni, Montecatini Terme 1 998.

14 ... i.es 15 .i.a3!?N ll1is untested move is the most interesting

attempt I could find for White.

l 5.c4?! �xd2 l 6 . .ixd2 gdg l 7.cxd5 lLixd5+ was sl igluly better for Black in Mariano -Wang Hao, Kuala Lumpur 2005, thanks to his better piece coordination and pawn structure. True, White has the pair of bishops, but they lack effective diagonals on which to operate.

Another instructive line is: l 5 .�e3N c4 l 6 . .ie2 d4 l 7.�h3 �xc3 l 8 .�xc3 dxc3 l 9 . .ixc4

a b c d e f g h l 9 . . . lLid4!

Watson mentions 1 9 . . . lLidS= which indeed looks fine for Black, but the text move enables the second player to fight for an advantage.

20 . .id3 20 . .ia3 gf7 2 1 .ged 1 (2 l . .id3 g5 transposes to 20J�.d3) 2 1 . . . lLiec6 is also pleasant for Black.

20 . . . gS 2 I ..ia3 2 1 ..ie3 gd8 22 . .ixd4 gxd4 23.lLif3 gxa4+

2 1 . . .gf7

22.ge4!? 22 . .ixe7 gxe7 23.lLif3 lLixf3i" 24.gxf3 gc8+ gives Black a clear-cut positional edge.

22 . . . lLiec6 23.lLif3 lLixf3i" 24.gxB gxB+ ll1e position is a bit messy, but it is White

who is fighting for equality.

Chapter 20 - 9 .Wd2 279

16.�ebl l 6.f4 8'.ad8 17 .8'.eb l b6 leads to the same

thing.

16 ... b6 "Ibis keeps things safe and solid, as White has

no way to exploit rhe black queen's shortage of squares.

l 6 . . . g5!? is a riskier alternative which leads to an immensely complicated endgame: l 7.�xc5 Wxc5 1 8.8'.b5 8'.xf2 1 9.\Wxf2 Wxf2t 20.Wxf2 gxh4 2 l .8'.xb7 lUgG

It is hard to say who stands better. Black has some material advantage, but White's potential passed a-pawn might well count for more.

8 i.� � ��·� 7 �� �- ,.� 6 ''•I••• '• s B lr.f i � m.t 4 ?,ti� ... . . J� �- - - - �� %� %0�?!%�1'!! ��,, 3 �� ��:! ��rn �0.'.-� 2 m b ;� �f!J, b �f!J,

�- - -� %'fl' . . . �m�· - ·jr�·;.f · · -� ���� m � a b c d e f g h

17.f4 �ad8!= "l11e position is rather complex, bur Black

seems to be doing fine. "Ibe queen can always escape from a5 by means of . . . c4 or . . . d4 when needed.

Conclusion

White has many ways of handling the position after 9.\Wd2 �d7, and Black's strategy will depend on his opponent's set-up. 111e simplifying operation with . . . cxd4 and . . . \Wxd2 followed by . . . CUf5 can work well, bur should generally only be used when White is obliged to meet the ducat to the d4-pawn with the weakening c2-c3. In some cases Black can improve his prospects with a preliminary . . . 8'.c8, while against the main 1 O.�d3 line an immediate central counter with 1 O ... f6 is called for. Generally Black's chances appear fine, as long as he takes care not to allow White's dark­squared bishop to become too active.

7.a4 9.ld2 id7 - Move 10 Alternatives

Variation Index 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lt:Jc3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 bc3t 6.bxc3 lt:Je7

7.a4 �bc6 8.�f3 \Was 9 . .id2

A) 10.�g5?! B) 10.c4?! C) 10.g3 D) 10.\Wcl E) 10.�bl F) 10.h4!? G) 10 . .id3 c4

Gl) 1 1 . .ifl G2) 1 1 . .ie2 f6

G21) 12.exf6 G22) 12.0-0

D) after 1 3.c3

9 . . . .id7

F) after I 1 . h5 G22) after I 8.g4

282 283 283 285 285 286 287 287 288 288 289

I 3 . . . lLla5!N

a b c d c f g h 1 8 . . . a5!N

282 7 .a4

I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ctJc3 i.b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 ctJe7 7.a4 ctJbc6 8.ctJf3 Wfa5 9.i.d2

1his is the most common response to Black's last move. White allows his bishop to be drawn away from the a3-square in order to speed up his development and maintain harmony amongst his pieces. It is worth emphasizing that, in many of the lines that follow, Black will happily retreat his queen to c7 knowing that the 'free' �d2 move will generally prove less than helpful for White; the ideal square for the dark-squared bishop is a3, and on d2 it also obstructs the queen's defence of the d4-pawn.

9 ... i.d7 Black continues with a standard developing

move. We have reached a major branching point, and in the present chapter we will analyse seven main options: A) IO.lllg5?!, B) IO.c4?!, C) IO.g3, D) 10.Wfcl , E) 10.�bl ,F) 10.h4!? and G) IO.i.d3.

1 O.'®b 1 looks pretty strange to me, forcing a retreat that Black would l ike to make anyway. It's also hard to see any useful purpose for the queen on b 1 . Black is doing fine after 1 O . . . '®c7, for instance: 1 l .�d3 0-0N 1 2.0-0 c4 l 3 .�e2 f6 1 4.exf6 Elxf6=

1he two most important continuations are 1 O.�b5 and 1 O.�e2. Both of these moves will receive coverage in dedicated chapters, beginning on pages 29 1 and 30 1 respectively.

A) 10.ctJg5?!

ll1is aggressive move is just bad.

IO .. . h6 1 1 .ctJh3?! White's best option is to admit his mistake

with l l .'llf3N which would obviously count as a success for Black.

1 1 .'®hS?! g6 1 2 .°Wh3 occurred in Imbert -Schweisguth, Montigny le Bretonncux 20 10 . Now Black can improve with 12 . . . cxd4N as pointed out by Watson, and after l 3.cxd4 'Wb6 14 .c3 °Wb2 followed by . . . lLiaS Black has the advantage.

1 1 .. .Wfc?

8 l�:\llil'*'��J:I 7 �-� • �m� .lL ��f • �•-a 6 Z.. .%m•m'i--m%. , ,%� 5 m w� , � m ·� 4 !• '0 '•11• 3 m � m m� 2 - 8 � � 8 �

•11•Vi�f.fRl:i a b c d e f g h

12.i.d3N Other moves arc even worse:

1 2.°Wg4? lLifS 1 3 .�d3 cxd4 1 4.cxd4 lLixcS-+ was already decisive for Black in Kallio -Hedlund, Sweden 1 990.

1 2.ic l ? cxd4 1 3.cxd4 lt:Jb4 1 4.id3 °Wc3t

Chapter 2 1 - 9 .id2 id7 - Move 1 0 Alternacives 283

l 5.id2 llixd31' l 6.cxd3 Wxd3-+ Korchagina - Ivkina, Sc Petersburg 2008.

12 ... cxd4 13.cxd4 lllxd4i White has little to show for his missing

pawn.

B) 10.c4?!

.i � �.� %� 8 � � - - � },,J 7 w.•m.i.1)1•-• 6 , . . ,,,m�mm�m�m s � it� , itfY m 4 /,�%-.%�%WJL . . %m %m

� -�,���fj �-.

. -��-� , , , , ."r,,;-� . . ;·"W . .

. % r� �iV�iL�:: a b c d e f g h

Only Black will benefit from this premature central break, as now White's pawn centre is seriously weakened .

10 ... WI c7 1 1 .cxd5 exd5! Opening the way for the bishop to head for

g4, in order to put further pressure on White's centre.

12.c3 1 2.dxc5 0-0 1 3 .ie2 t:Llxe5 14.0-0 llixf31'

l 5.ixf3 Wxc5 is somewhat better for Black, although the pair of bishops gave White reasonable drawing chances in Dubinin -Boleslavsky, Leningrad 1 947.

12 ... ig4 13 . .!!cl 1 3 .ib5 0-0+

13 ... 0-0 14.h3 l 4.id3 f6! l 5.exf6 l'!xf6 l 6.ixh71' \t>h8

1 7 .ib l !!af8 1 8.®c2 g6+ Black has strong pressure along the f-file.

1 4.ie2 tllf5 also promises good play for Black.

1 5 . . . Ri 16.f4 cxd4 17.cxd4 Wb6i Palffy - Sinka, Hungary 1 998. ( i 7 . . . tllf5N+

is also promising for Black.)

C) 10.g3

8 .1 � % •m �ii 1 mT�1�!••! 6 ,

:-�A•;• s � ef� , ef� m 4 ?-�% . . .

.

. %� . . . . %-. �m � m·'ef m ' m"� � �Jl�VJ!lwtJ f ,�� 'w,/; '• ' r� mv�ll�::

a b c d e f g h With this move White plans to develop

his light-squared bishop to g2 or h3. 111is is a normal set-up in positions when Black has committed himself to . . . c4, but at the present moment the idea looks rather strange to me, as i t loses rime and also weakens the light squares.

284 7.a4

10 ... 0-0

Both Williams and Watson give long castling as the main recommendation, but the text move looks more logical to me. Black plans a quick ... f6 break in order to get counterplay along the f-file and possibly transfer the bishop via e8 to the kingside.

11.�h3

l l.�g2 ihl.1c7N 12.0-0 tlla5 is likely to transpose to the main line after 13.fi'.el tllc4 14 .. \kfl.

l 1.�d3!? TI1is might well be best, although one would then have to question the value of g2-g3 as a waiting move. Black should beware of the possible sacrifice on h7 though.

11 .. .fG 11 ... hG!? is another interesting option intending: 12.0-0 c4 13.�e2 f6 14.exf6 fi'.xf6=

12.exf6 fi'.xf6 13.0-0 13.fi'.bl!?N ihl.1c7 14.0-0 h6=

I 3 ... c4 l 4.�e2 We have been following the game Karpovich

Kurochkin, Lvov 1999. Here I suggest:

a b c d e f g h

14 ... fi'.afSN Intending ... �e8 or ... tllc8-d6. A possible continuation is:

15.tllh415.tlle5 Cllxe5 16.dxe5 fi'.6f7 17.�h5 g618J�g4 tllf5=

15 ... tllcS 16.f4 tlld6 17.�f3 tlle7 18.tllg2 tllef5=

With a solid position for Black.

Let's return to the main line, which seems most consistent with I O.g3. Now that the bishop has committed itself to the kingside, I would prefer to delay the .. .f6 break and first concentrate on the queenside where White has left himself vulnerable on the light squares. One has to question the usefulness of the bishop on h3, as White is a long way from achieving f4-f5.

s Am m ��·m �&% & � A �fJ{@, & �,{Ff 7 �·-�i�ai?a;a

:;-H�� 4 Lt/• 'rJ '�B 3m � m��� � %!% �:,;; �%

2�m�il�d ,, ;'/ m ,.,,,,,/ m a b c d e f g h

11...Wl'c?N

Black frees the a5-square for his knight, while putting additional pressure on White's centre and along the c-file.

12.0-0 tLJa5 13.�el tLJc4 14.�fl

l 4.�g5 fi'.fe8 is no problem.

14 ... h6!?=

A useful waiting move, preventing the threats before they come. Black has an easy game with a strong knight on c4 and pressure along the c-file. An exchange on c4 would just turn the ugly French bishop on d7 into the master of the long diagonal.

Chapter 2 1 - 9 .id2 id7 - Move 1 0 Alternatives 285

D) 10.Wc1

8 1.m �·m �� 7 mt�'1St��,-,Y, :���;· 4 'twl 'n' '�m 3 •/��/ . .

. .Zm�m � � ?ff% m·���n� 2 ' �,�;�wJfljft] �� � ���-M

a b c d e f g h -n1 is move scores pretty well for White and

was once played by Viccor Korchnoi. Whice intends to put his queen to a3 to stabil ize che queenside and exert pressure along che a3-f8 diagonal.

10 ... Wc?! Black has several playable options, but this

one looks most appealing to me. Black retreats his queen towards the centre and frees the a5-squarc for the knight.

1 1 .Wa3 cxd4 l l . . .b6= has been played, and this too gives

Black a solid game.

Another idea is l l . . . E:c8!?N with the point that 1 2.'\Wxc5? can be mec by 12 . . . tt:lxe5 ! .

12.cxd4 fDf'5 13.c3 When Black succeeds in provoking this

advance, he can generally be happy with his position. The bishop on d2 is passive ac che momenc and Black will obcain councerplay on chc light squares. With chat in mind, chc purpose of che following novelty is quite obvious:

8 1.m m•m �� 1 W i �Am i W i 6 ,. - - "mi)mfg· . . zm s m m •r��-4 bm � m m3 �� � �,�m

L . . :::�mL..%%_%_m·% �m-% 2 m � r� b r� I�� �., . . . .

. �r��fil�{i ,,, .Y, m / .. , , /. m a b c d e f g h

13 ... lllaS!N Much more logical than l 3 . . .f6 as played

in Kogeler - Romano, corr. 20 1 1 . Black has promising councerplay on the light squares and his chances arc noc worse.

E) 10.�bl

a b c d e f g h lhis move has only rarely been played but ic

is not bad.

10 ... Wc? Safeguarding the b-pawn and avoiding any

�b5 attacks.

1 1 .h4!? 111e following alternatives are not dangerous:

286 7.a4

l 1 .ie2 CUa5N is fine for Black.

l 1 .id3 b6N 1 2.0-0 h6! is an important prophylactic idea to prepare short castling.

1 1 .. �b5?! CUa5 1 2.0-0 �xb5 l 3.!'1.xb5 occurred in Tosoni - Proietti, Rome 2007.

s i:. -�- �� 7 � · � �·r�• 6 � � ". � .� � � - � �

:� 'F? W.11� a WfV'� � 5 � � ? .. � . ?Q� @,$ 4 � .�. t� � .� 3 •. � �qj-2 -�� ����� �\tXK!B 'F? � � � §' · � �'§'(

a b c d e f g h Now instead of blocking the posirion with

1 3 . . . c4? Black should have preferred 1 3 . . . bG!N l 4.dxc5 CUc4 with somewhat better chances.

111e text move is the mosr challenging idea, keeping various options open for the light­squared bishop. According to my database, White has achieved a perfect four wins from four by playing this way. However, this is mainly due to Black having failed to choose rhe right plan. Instead of committing to long castling or breaking prematurely with .. .f6, I would l ike to propose a logical novelty:

a b c d e f g h

1 1 ...�aS!N= Attacking a4 and keeping rhe king safely in

the centre for rhe time being. Black's chances are by no means worse here.

F) 10.h4!?

An interesting waiting move to see how Black reacts. 111e two mosr popular replies have been 1 0 .. . fG and 1 0 . . . 0-0-0, but neither of rhem look very impressive to me. Instead I prefer rhe following solution:

10 ... 0-0!? ·n1is may look l ike a risky decision against

White's lasr move, bur it is justified by Black's lead in developmenr.

I would like ro menrion l O . . . \Wc7!? as an inreresting alrernarive. As has already been mentioned in similar situations, once Whire has commirred his bishop ro d2 rhe queen is better placed on c7 where ir has multiple functions. Play may continue: l l .h5 (Or l l .id3N c4 l 2.ie2 f6 1 3 .exfG gxf6 intending . . . 0-0-0 followed by . . . e5 wirh counterplay in rhe centre.) l l ... cxd4N 1 2.cxd4 CUf5 l 3.c3 h6 Having forced rhe weakening c2-c3, Black can conrinue wirh . . . CUa5-c4 wirh counterplay on rhe c-file and the l ighr squares. 'CT1e chances are abour equal .

Chapter 2 1 - 9 .�d2 �d7 - Move 1 0 Alternatives 287

l l .h5 l l .�d3 is well met by l l ... h6 intending

. . . c4 followed by . . . f6.

8 i:m m ��•m 1 � .t. �.ft.-.t. w.l i : ; �����;· 4 ��,,�l8'n 8!j 3 B�,0�,,

. . ·��� 0 2 � 8 � � 8 � %�--- . . . >: /, . , . , /, � �� DVmJL�� ,, . , , Y � /, , /, �

a b c d e f g h 1 1 ... h6!N

I t's necessary to prevent h5-h6 before going into action with the f-pawn. Watson gives this as the safest option for Black, with the assessment of equal. I would like to offer a few fur ther l ines showing the possible development of the position .

1 1 . . . fS?! was played Ill Dzhumaev -Dimukhametov, Samara 20 1 1 . Now White could have played l 2.h6!N g6 l 3.�e2;!; with a long-term advantage in view of Black's weaknesses on the dark squares.

12.g4 This is the most straightforward move for

White and should be taken seriously. Now Black really needs to open up the f-file to create counterplay.

l 2.�d3 plays into Black's hands after l 2 . . . c4 13 .�e2 f6 14.exf6 El.xf6= with a solid position and roughly equal chances.

12 ... f6 13.exf6 E:xf6 14.�g2 14.gS?! hxg5+ doesn't bring anything for

White.

14 ... E:af8 15.0-0 Vf!lc7= Black has achieved a solid position with good

chances to make use of White's weaknesses . One idea is co continue with . . . cxd4 followed by . . . cuc8-d6.

G) IO.id3

8 i:m m•m �� 7 mfn��fw"'' 6 : ,"•1•1·��-5 � i.tf , if!j, m 4 ?.��-r

. . . �rri: . . . . �m �-3 m r�JLm�m 2 m 8 � � 8 w� f[�� \w�/ '�' ' �1; mv� m�

a b c d e f g h 10 . . . c4

This is a logical reply, winning a tempo on the bishop and planning a quick . . . f6 break. Both bishop retreats are possible, so we will check both G 1) 1 1 .ifl and G2) I Lie2.

GI) 1 1 .ifl

This has the rather ambitious idea of developing the bishop on g2 or h3, but it is rather time-consuming and Black can quickly create counterplay along the f-file.

1 1 ...0-0 'l11is looks like a good and simple solucion,

although 1 1 . . .0-0-0 followed by . . . f6 also deserves attention.

12.g3 f6 13.exf6 E:xf6 14.ig2 E:af8 1 5.0-0 'l11e above moves are all self-explanatory, and

were played in Veber - Varini, Kranj 2008. Herc I suggest the f()llowing new idea:

288 7.a4

16.l2Jh4I 6.\We2 �e8= is fine for Black.

16 ... g5! 17.l2Jf3 ie8= Black's activity fully compensates for the

slight weakening of his kingside.

G2) 1 Lie2

1 1 .. . f6 On this occasion I prefer the immediate

central break in conjunction with long castling. Now White must make an important choice between G21) 12.exf6 and G22) 12.0-0.

G21) 12.exf6 gxf6 13.0-0 0-0-0

1 4.\Wcl e5N looks like a logical novelty, and after 1 5 .dxe5 fxe5 Black has a strong pawn centre and attacking prospects on the kingside. A possible continuation is I G .• �g5 \Wc7 1 7.a5 l"1hg8 intending ... l"1df8.

a h c d e f g h 1 7 . . . bG!N 1 8.\Wa3 ( 1 8 .\Wb5 ©b8 I 9.\Wb2 ©a8+) And now after 1 8 ... �g4+ Black has a strong pawn centre and good attacking chances on the kingside. Meanwhile White is left with all his heavy pieces on the queenside, but lacks the means co break through .

Chapter 2 1 - 9.�d2 �d7 - Move 1 0 Alternatives 289

16.g3 1 6.\We2 e5 1 7.E!:eb l �g4 1 8.\We3 occurred

in Onisi - Bongiovanni, Rome 1 996. Now instead of l 8 . . . �xf3? Black should play 1 8 . . . \Wc?N when he keeps an iniciacive.

16 ... h5 17.ig2 h4 18.Wi'e2 lbis was Wanzek - Namyslo, Schwaebisch

Gmuend 1 995 . 'There Black rook on g3, buc I don't want ro release che tension so quickly.

G22) 12.0-0

1his cime Whice maincains a pawn on e5, buc Black obtains good chances here coo.

12 ... fxe5 13.l2Jxe5 If White avoids the knight exchange he is

likely co lose the e5-pawn. 1 3.dxe5?! 0-0 14.E!:e l lt:lg6 1 5.lLid4

1 5 .�fl E!:f5+ I also considered: 1 5 .E!:b l N b6 ( 1 5 . . . \Wc? I 6.g3 b6 is equal but Black can play for more.) ! 6.lt:ld4 ( 1 6.�fl E!:f5+) 1 6 . . . lt:lgxe5 1 7.�h5 lt:lxd4 1 8.cxd4 c3 19.�g5 lt:lc6+

8 �� � f�·� �;& & �;i A � t� & 7 ?'a';; • �· i !'$}/ r-a" • 6 ' /.�'-"'/�/'ii� ' '. &'$ & >?'ff:> ';;%?//. s � d a Wo � ,, '"%t,0.l.0?R( \:i@: � 4 8 � · �•. Wt.% . � 3 � �� � � �,;;%%/ "w·;,f !.-, };{ff; A ;fAf, 2 � 8 ���01,c,�}Ui

1 ¥� -��� � a b c d e f g h

1 5 . . . lt:lgxe5 16 .�h5 Lamoureux - Kuemin, Switzerland 2006. Here I suggest the improvement:

1 6 . . . 1Wd8N+ Black keeps an excra pawn and a slight edge.

290 7 . a4

13 . . . lllxeS 14.clxe5 0-0 15.Wi'bl l 5 .f4 was met by l 5 . . . �e8= in Nikolic -

Ivkov, Sarajevo 1 967, preparing to activate che bishop on the kingside with a good game for Black. Alcernacively it was possible to grab the a-pawn wich l 5 . . . �xa4!?N.

Another game concinued: l 5.�g4 lll f5 1 6.\Wb I �c6 1 7.\Wb4 \Wc7 1 8 .Ei:ae l ?! ( 1 8 .f4N a5=) 1 8 . . . a5! 1 9.1Wa3 1Wd7 20.Ei:a l

a b c d e f g h

1his was Michalek - Hlavacek, Czech Republic 1 999, and here Black could have seized che initiative and obtained the beccer chances with 20 . . . d4!N.

ll1e ccxc move intends 1Wb4, and has achieved a perfect score for White out of duce games. Nevertheless, Black should be fine after correct play.

15 • . • .ic6 16.Wi'b4 Wi'c7 17.f4 1 7.�e3N Cllf5 1 8 .i/,d4 a5! An important

move, fixing che a4-pawn on a light square. 111ac pawn can become a serious weakness later, and White's pieces may be kept busy protecting it. 1 9.1Wa3 1Wf7= With active play for Black on che kingside.

17 . . . lLifS 18.g4 More prudent is l 8.a5N 1Wf7 with equal

chances.

'Il1e cexc move is ambitious, buc ic also creates serious weaknesses in White's camp. At this point I propose an improvement over the game Mueller - Gibis, Germany 1 993.

8 m m ��•m 1 iTSl�a ,�T 6 , '•:in fn' ,• s m m · ��-4 C' "] m �-� m 3 1·��,JJii� 2 M 8 1]�M �

r � � �- ��-;'� P� � mM� a b c d e f g h

18 ... aS!N Again this thematic idea to fix the enemy

a-pawn, which will be under attack from the bishop on c6 for a long time to come.

19.Wi'cS llle7= Incending . . . Ei:f7 and . . . Ei:af8 with councerplay

on the half-open f-filc.

Conclusion

ll1is chapter has introduced the main branch of theory after 8 . . . 1Wa5, namely the 9 .�d2 �d7 line. We saw a whole assortment of different tries from White, each with thei r own pros and cons. One of the best features of Black's position is Aexibilicy. Depending on circumstances, he can cascle on either side, or postpone the decision indefinitely. He can block the centre with . . . c4 or exchange pawns on d4. Finally, a key resource in many lines is the thematic . . . f6 break. ll1e analysis given in che present chapter indicates chat, by choosing che right plan at the right time, Black can achieve a healchy middlegame position with good chances.

7.a4 a b c d c f g h

9.id2 id7 - 10.ihS

Variation Index I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lDc3 .ih4 4.eS c5 S.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 lDe7

7.a4 lDbc6 8.lDf3 'I.Was 9 . .id2 .id? 10 . .ibS 'I.We? 1 1 .0-0

A) 12 . .icl B) 12.!!el 0-0 13 . .id3 h6

Bl) 14.g4!? B2) 14.'l.Wcl! c4

B21) 15 . .ie2 B22) 15 . .ifl

A) afrcr I 6.Qxc5

1 6 . . . 1!fc8!N

1 1 ...b6!?

B) nore ro I 3.il.d3 B) norc ro 1 3 . . . h6

293 294 295 297 297 299

a b c d c t' g h 20 . . . l"lb2N

292 7.a4

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.tt'lc3 �b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 llle7 7.a4 lllbc6 s.lllf3 'Wa5 9.�d2 �d7 10.�b5

'Il1 is is the first of the two big options, the other being 1 o . .\kc2 as found in the next chapter. 'Il1e latter has been played slightly more frequently, but the former has achieved a higher statistical score, so we should consider it careful ly. By placing the bishop on b5, White hopes to provoke a slight weakening of his opponent's quecnside.

10 . . . 'Wc? This move appears to me to be the most

logical. TI1e queen steps out of any c3-c4 attacks and prepares . . . tt::la5, aiming at the c4-square and offering an exchange of bishops, which would suit Black rather well. 'This way the placement of White's bishop on b5 looks rather questionable, as it will probably soon have to retreat to d3.

Despite the above comments, 1 O . . . a6 is a playable approach which has been recommended by both Williams and Warson . I have played this position myself twice, both times successfully but from different sides of the board. Now l l . .\kxc6 is pretty solid for both sides, but the critical variation is l l . .\ke2 f6! ? l 2 .c4 'Wc7. The computer indicates a

distinct advantage for White, but I do not believe things arc so bad for Black. Having said that, I still prefer the continuation advocated in the main line, to which we will now return.

1 1 .0-0

s .iR m�m �� 7 �� & �ill[ A �� & ?f� & ?'A% A �§'� ..liI. ��l A �-% A 6 ,, _ , , /.•i)m".t. ·m"· · '-m s m�-·� m 4 8 R � m R 3 m � B�m �- �-00 �-00 �-�

2 r �,�Jilv?,,JIJ �� �if�M � a b c d e f g h

1 1 ... b6!? In the great majority of games Black has

preferred 1 1 . . . 0-0, when the most common continuations have been 1 2..\kcl b6 and 1 2 .Ele I b6. Both of these positions will soon be reached by transposition in our respective main lines below, bur the reason for the text move is to avoid the following slightly annoying possibility:

1 1. . .0-0 1 2.dxc5!? Opening up the position gives White a poor pawn structure bur, on the other hand, his bishops will work much better.

l 2 . . . tt::lxe5 "Il1is is the only move to have been played so far, but l 2 . . . a6!?N could be considered.

1 3 .;�J4 tt::lxf3"f 1 4.\Wxf3 '1Wc8 14 . . . \Wd8?! l 5.c4!t

l 5 . .\kd6 Elc8 White has some initiative, but it will be hard to achieve anything with such an awful pawn structure on the quecnsidc. TI1e best try looks to be:

Chapter 22 - 1 0.ib5 293

a b c d c f g h l 6.c4!?N

l 6.id3 has been played in three out of three games. 16 . . . lllf5 l 7.ixf5 Zelcic -Psakhis, Bled 2002, was agreed drawn here, and indeed after l 7 . . . exf5 l 8.Wxd5 Wc6 1 9.WxcG ixc6 20.a5 a6 the opposite­coloured bishops make a draw a virtual certainty.

1 6 . . . dxc4 l 6 . . . ixb5 l 7.axb5 ( l 7.cxb5 lllf5 l 8.c4 llJxdG 1 9 .cxdG Wc5=) 1 7 . . . dxc4 1 8 .md 1 t looks favourable for White.

1 7.ixc4 icG 1 8 .Wg4 l2Jf5 1 9.Elfd l Black remains pretty solid, but White has an

initiative and a grip on the position, which is why I chose 1 2 . . . bG!? as my main move order. Black could also consider playing 1 1 . . . 0-0 with a view co meeting l 2.dxc5 with the unrested but playable-looking 1 2 . . . aG!?N, as was brieAy noted at move 1 2. I will leave it to the reader co decide which route he prefers.

After 1 1 . . . bG White's cwo main moves arc A) 12.icl and B) 12.�el .

l 2.id3 should be mer by 12 . . . hGN followed by castling.

A) 12.icl

Transferring the bishop co a3 is a logical way co exert pressure on the dark squares.

12 ..• 0-0 13 . .ia3 ll'ia5!

1his move involves a pawn sacrifice, but Black will achieve enough counrerplay on the light squares.

14.dxcS l 4.id3 avoids the exchange of lighr-squarcd

bishops and looks towards the kingside. Taking on h7 may not yet be a decisive ducat, but my suggestion would be to play 1 4 . . . hG anyway, as seen in a few games. Black has a solid position and the chances are level.

14 ... bxcS Also playable is: 1 4 . . . ixb5 1 5 .cxbG

( 1 5 .axb5N bxc5 1 6.ixc5 Wxc5 1 7.l:ha5 l[k6! is clearly better for Black according co Yusupov. Indeed Black wins back the pawn with a better pawn structure, but it seems that White can reach a balanced endgame with precise play: 1 8.ElaG! Wxb5 1 9 .Wd3 Wxd3 [ 1 9 . . . Wb7 20.l2Jg5 g6 2 1 . f'i leaves Black with a serious weakness on the kingside.] 20.cxd3=) 1 5 . . . axbG 1 6.axb5

a b c d e f g h l 6 . . . Elfc8 l 7.ib4 l2Jc4= Nunn - Yusupov, Belgrade 1 99 1 .

1 5 • .ixd7 l 5 .id3N should, as usual, be met by

1 5 . . . hG when rhe chances are equal.

15 . . . Wxd7 16.hcS 'Il1is position was evaluated as slightly better

for White by Yusupov, in his annotations rn his

294 7.a4

aforementioned game against Nunn. Indee� White is a pawn up, bur I believe char Blacks counterplay on che c-file and ou�posc on c4 provide at lease enough compensanon.

I 7.�d4 E!c4! . An ambitious move, simply grabbmg the a4-

pawn.

h .d . 1 7 lLic4 1 8.\Wd3 h6! followed Anot er 1 ea ts · · ·

b i:oi b8 In chis case the chances are about y . . . C'>a •

equal, bur I chink Black can play for more.

l8.llld2 E!xa4 19.E!xa4 \Wxa4

20.\Wal \Wxc2 2 1.\Wxa5 \Wxd2:j: . Black has an extra pawn and White muse

fight for a draw.

B) 12.E!el

12 ... 0-0 13.�d3 1his has been by far the most popular

choice, and has been favoured by Nunn and other strong GMs.

Chapter 22 - 1 O .�b5 295

1 4 . . . lllaS!N 14 . . . lllxeS was played in che seem game Christiansen - Gulko, Chandler 1 997, and Black lacer deviated wich 1 4 . . . c4 in Zhang Zhong - Lpucian, Beersheba 2005, but neither of chese moves seems to be enough for equality.

I 5.ixd7 'Wxd7 16 .�xcS White has a sl ightly improved version of variation A, as he has saved time with his dark-squared bishop and achieved the Ele I move for free. However, chat is not of major importance and Black is still ac least equal.

8 8 � � ��� � � :;;� � '-,"S'f ·� 7 � ��� · - · 6 c %���1fi�L %� 5 . � · �� � 4 �� � ,; � 3 �. �,,////,BCZJ� 2 � �- ��·� l 1� ���g( /�/ /

a b c d e f g h I 6 . . . Elfc8 l 7Jld4

1 7.ib4 lllc4 is also good for Black. 1 7 . . . Elc4

Black is perfectly fine, and can proceed just as in che earlier line A.

13 ... h6 Once again we see chis standard response to

an enemy bishop on d3. Lee me mencion in passing chat l 3 . . . f6?! is inferior due to 1 4.exf6 gxf6 l 5 .lllh4!±.

After the text move White's most logical plan is to attack on che kingside. His two main options are Bl) 14.g4!? and B2) 14.'Wcl! .

l 4.ixh6? is a recurring theme in che lacer l ine 82, buc here it is premature. l 4 . . . gxh6 l 5 .1Mf d2 ©g7 1 6.'Wfq lllg8 White lacked sufficienc compensation for the piece in Kalegin -

Kobalia, Moscow 1 996, although in fact che novelty I 6 . . . Elh8!N+ would have been even stronger.

14 .dxcS bxcS 1 5 .c4 Elab8! 1 6.cxdS exd5 17.c3 c4 (or 1 7 . . . lllaS=) 1 8 .ic2 ig4 1 9.h3 ixf3 20.Wxf3 occurred in Morais - Liebert, corr. 2008, and here I suggest:

a b c d e f g h 20 . . . Elb2N 2 1 .Elac l d4 22.cxd4 l:!xc2 23.Elxc2 lllxd4 24.We4 lllxc2 25 .Wxc2 'Wc6= With an equal position.

Bl) 14.g4!?

a b c d e f g h le could be easy to forget about such a move

when White has already cascled. Apart from chc immediate g4-g5 , another typical idea for White is ©h 1 followed by Elgl to lend extra force to che pawn push.

296 7 .a4

14 ... c4 15 . .ifl f6! As always, the f-pawn comes to the rescue

once White tries to attack on the kingside. After the opening of the f-file White's king will also become vulnerable.

16.exf6 :Sxf6 17.g5 hxg5 18.hg5 :Sf7! Keeping the rook on the f-file is to be

recommended. After l 8 . . . :B:g6?! l 9.h4 llif5 20.ig2;l; White had an edge in Rogers -Arizmendi Martinez, New York 1 998.

a b c d e f g h 19 . .ih3!?N

1his seemed like an interesting attempt to improve White's play, but Black has enough resources to handle it.

A previous game continued: l 9.ixe7 :B:xe7 20.llig5 W/f4 2 1 .Wlh5 g6 22.W/h6 :B:f8

a b e d e f g h

23.ih3 (23.:B:xe6!?N forces a draw by repetition after: 23 . . . .m.xeG 24.WlxgGt @h8 25 .W/h6t ©g8 26.Wfg6t=) 23 . . . :B:FG 24.©h 1 llid8 25.:B:e3 llif7 26.Wlh?t @f8 27.llif3

19 ... :SafS 20 . .ig4 lllf5 21 .�e2 2 1 .ih5 g6 22.ig4 (22.ixg6? :B:g7 23.ixf5

E!xf5 24.h4 W/f4+) 22 . . . llig7 is equal.

a b c d e f g h 21 ...lllh6! 22.Le6

22.ixh6 gxh6 23 .©h l @h?t gives Black a pleasant game with active play along the f-file.

22 .. . he6 23.�xe6 <;tih7 24.llJe5 llJxe5 25.:Sxe5

25 .W/xe5 W/d7+±

Chapter 22 - 1 O.ib5 297

82) 14.\Wcl !

a b c d e f g h

Another direct approach; this time White plans a sacrifice on h6. Black needs to be careful here.

14 . . . c4 Here White can try either 821) 15.i.e2 or

822) 1 5.ifl .

l 5 .ixh6?? is premature and has never been tested. Black simply has to capture the right bishop to ensure victory: 1 5 . . . cxd3! 1 6.cxd3

( 1 6.'®g5 tt:lg6-+) 1 6 . . . gxh6 1 7.'®xh6 tt:lf5 1 s .'®g5t ©h7 I 9 .'®h5t tt:lh6-+

821) 15.ie2

a b c d e f g h

15 . . . f6 16.if4 1 6.ixh6?!

This sacrifice is not as disastrous as on the previous turn, but accurate defence sees Black emerge with slighdy beccer chances:

1 6 . . . gxh6 1 7.iWxh6 tt:lf5! 1 8 .'®g6t ©hs l 9.'®h5t <±>g7!

le is worth mentioning that Black has an easy draw with 19 ... <±>g8 20.'®g6t= if he wants it.

20.ixc4! The only cry co make something happen.

a b c d e f g h 20 . . . �f7!

Intending ... �hS.

298 7.a4

20 . . . dxc4? 2 l .li:e4 gives White a dangerous attack.

2 1 .�d3 li:h8 22.'1Wg4!" 'tt>f8 23.exf6 li:xf6 111e position is not entirely clear, bur Black

has managed to consolidate and get his pieces out. Although White has duce pawns for the sacrificed piece, which is a fair amount of material, I believe that the extra piece will count for more in the long run.

a b c d e f g h 16 ... lllg6 17.i.g3 f5

A playable alternative is: I 7 . . . fxc5 l 8.dxc5 (l 8.h4!? li:f5 I 9.h5 lL\f4 20.lL\xe5 lL\xc2"t 2 I .:gxc2 :gxh5 gave Black an extra pawn in Nagley - Le Duigou, email 200 I , bur White's initiative gave him about enough compensation.)

a b c d c f g h l 8 . . . lL\ge7! I t is time to regroup the knight and make room for the bishop manoeuvre to g6.

I 9.lL\d4 lL\xd4 20.cxd4 lL\f5 2 I .c3 �e8= Byrne - Korchnoi, Nice 1 974.

a b c d e f g h 18.h4 f4 19.�h2 li:f5 20.hS!?N

·n1is seems more challenging than 20.g4 fxg3 2 l .fxg3 li:af8 22.:gfl .�c8 when Black had a solid position with ae lease equal chances in Nunn - Dolmatov, Pardubice 1 993.

20 . . • li:xhS 21 .hf4 �f5 2 I . . . lL\xf4 22.'1Wxf4 l:%f5 23.'IWg3 lL\e7 24.lL\h4

mfs 25 .• \ll.g4t gives White a slight initiative.

a b c d e f g h

22.i.g3 �ffS! le is worth retreating the exposed rook before

it comes under attack.

23.lllh4 i.es 24.i.g4 Wfd7=

Chapter 22 - I O.ib5 299

TI1e chances are roughly level. Black has a solid position and will eventually be able to activate his bishop on rhe kingside.

B22) 15.�fl

a b c d e f g h 1 5 .. . f6 16.g3

A logical follow-up co Whire's lase move, intending to deploy the bishop on h3.

! 6 .�xh6?!N gxh6 I 7.Wxh6 lll f5D I 8 .Wg6t 'it>h8 l 9.Wh5t 'it>g7 20.�xc4! transposes to rhe l 6.�xh6?! line given in rhe nores to rhe previous variation B2 l .

16 .. . lllg6! l 6 . . . fxe5 has been played in the majority of

games, bur after 1 7.lllxe5 lllxe5 1 8 .l"lxe5 lllc6 l 9 .l"le3 e5 I found char 20.�g2! gives Whire rhe berrer prospects.

17.�g2 l 7.exf6 �xf6 1 8 .�g2 �af8 1 9 .\Wd 1 �e8

reached a balanced position in Giaccio -Fernandez Romero, Sanra Clara 2005. Black has active play on rhe f-file and rhe bishop is on irs way to rhe kingside.

17 ... fxe5 18. CllxeS 1 8.dxe5N is well mer by 1 8 . . . �f5! attacking

e5.

a b c d e f g h 18 . . . CllgxeS 19.dxeS �e8=

Wedberg - Brynell, Gothenburg 2004. "D1e position is approximately equal, although personally I prefer Black, as he has a better pawn structure and an easier game to play. One logical plan is . . . �g6 followed by rhe knight manoeuvre . . . llla5-b7-c5 conrrolling the e4-square. 'The only thing to watch our for is the f4-f5 break, but this should not be too senous.

Conclusion

I O.�b5 is intended to provoke the weakening . .. a6 move, so I suggest that we refuse rhe invitation with 1 O . . . \Wc7, calling inro question the usefulness of rhe bishop on b5. "D1C11 after 1 1 .0-0 I found l l . . .b6!? to be an interesting refinement of the move order, which is likely to lead back into mainstream tcrrirory after Black castles next. White's most interesting and challenging approach seems to be variation B2, where Black must constantly be on guard against �xh6 ideas. However, by blocking rhe centre with 14 . . . c4 and following up wirh a quick . . . f6, Black manages co defend his kingside while obtaining active prospects for the middlegame.

7.a4 9.id2 id7 - IO.ie2

Variation Index 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLic3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 .ixc3t 6.bxc3 lLie7

7.a4 lL!bc6 8.lLif3 11Ma5 9 . .id2 .id7 IO . .ie2

A) 1 1 .�bl!? B) l 1.exf6 gxf6

Bl) 12.lLih4 B2) 12.0-0

C) 1 1 .0-0 fxe5 Cl) 12.lLixe5 C2) 12.dxe5 C3) 12.c4!?

D) 1 1 .c4 11Mc7 DI) 12.exf6

10 . . • £6

D2) 12.cxd5 lLixd5 13.c4 lL!de7 14.exf6 gxf6 021) 15.d5!? D22) 15 . .ic3 D23) 15.dxc5

A) nore ro 1 4.0-0 B I ) afccr 1 4 .0-0 C2) afrer l 7 .Elb3

302 305 305 306 306 307 307 308 309 309 31 1 312 313 314

a b c d c f g h l 7 . . . lligc7!N 1 7 . .. EldS!N

302 7.a4

I e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.'llc3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5 .a3 Lc3t 6.bxc3 'lle7 7.a4 'llbc6 8.'llf3 '11Na5 9 . .id2 .id? IO . .ie2

10 . . . f6 d h 1his is the most straightforw

_ar app

_ro�c

. d I St Popular continuation. A s1mila1 an ne mo. A 6 C . . ca11 lJe reached after 1 0 .£b5 a 111 posmon

d d h . chapter I instead recommen e t e previous · .

'llXt c Bl k) 1 1 .ie2 f6. The difference 1 0 . . . 8c7 10r ac ·

. of having the pawn on a7 should constitute a c Bl I s the b6-square slight improvement wr ac < a.

is not weakened.

h re four main After the text move t ere a A) 1 1 �bl'� B) l l .exf6, possibilities: . .!:!. ·· '

C) 1 1 .0-0 and D) l l .c4.

A) 1 1.�bl !?

1his tricky move was first played by Wedberg back in 1 978.

I I ...'11Nc7! I . Simply defending b7 is the best so unon.

fx 5 might seem tempting, bur after 1 1 . . . e

1 2 ;gxb7 e4 l 3 .lllg5 White had a promising ·

0 ·n Oegerfors . . ·1n Wedberg - rnste1 , posmon . b th that 1 978, and went on to score well m o encounter and subsequent games.

a b c d e f g h 12 . .if4

"Ihe alternative is: l 2.exf6 gxf6

l the Black has a strong pawn centre, m� I position remains complex and dyn�rrnc. t

. I d . firm j·udgement wnh only is 1ar to give a h I d b bur based on t e four games on t 1e ata ase,

following examples Black seems at least okay.

1 3;�x

��O O-O-O 14.;gel c4 1 5 . .ifl h5! 1 6.\Wci lll�6 1 7.Qjih l h4 1 8.h3 �dg8 1 9 . .ic3 lllce7 20.Wla3 "lJ mten 111 • • • "l..l .. r:.. fS . d. g r:..d6-e4 was also

. . . c r Black in Tan - Herzog, qurte prom1s111g IO Guernsey 1 996.

Cha peer 23 - 1 O.�e2 303

1 3 . . . e5 1 4.c4 �e6 1 5 .cxd5 .ixd5 1 6.0-0 0-0-0+

Poretti - Weber, email 2000. Black has good central control and plenty of activity. White, on the other hand, is blocked from creating any counterplay on the queenside and has a difficulc cask defending. "D1e bishop pair cannot realize its full strength in this position.

12 ... lllg6 13.�g3 fxe5

a b c d e f g h 14.0-0 1 4 .. �b5?!

After this inaccurate move Black can exploit White's failure to castle.

l 4 . . . cxd4 l 5 .cxd4 \Wa5"1 "D1e queen escapes the problem diagonal with gain of tempo.

1 6.mn l 6.ltJd2 exd4 l 7 . .id6 \Wd8 l 8.h4?! ( 1 8.0-0 ltJce7+) l 8 . . . \Wf6 ( 1 8 . . . eSN+) l 9.l"i:b3? ( l 9.h5 ltJh4+) 1 9 . . . e5 left Black with a decisive advantage in Hirsig - Jurek, Bad Ragaz 1 993.

1 6 . . . e4 1 7.ll'lg5 This position was reached in Loeffler -Namyslo, Deizisau 1 999, and here I found a strong novelty.

14 ... 0-0 15.�b5 cxd4 16.cxd4 lllf4 Black has a few other ways co achieve an

equal position. 111ey are all of roughly the same value, so I will present the different options and allow the reader to decide which one suits his own tastes.

l 6 . . . l"i:xf3!? is an active option which also involves more risk. l 7.gxf3 l"i:fB 1 8.l"i:e 1 was played in Wedberg - Renman, Sweden 1 979, and here Black can improve upon Renman's 1 8 . . . \Wd8?! with:

a b c d e f g h 1 8 . . . a6N 1 9.�xc6 ( 1 9 . .ifl ttJf4�) 1 9 . . . .ixcG� With sufficient compensation for Black.

1 6 . . . \Wc8 l 7 . .ixc6?! ( l 7.dxe5N ltJce7=) 17 . . . .ixcG 1 8 .Cllxe5 l2'lxe5 1 9 . .ixe5 �xa4 was

304 7.a4

somewhat better for Black in Schmenger - Kipper, Germany 1 997. However the appearance of opposite-coloured bishops makes the position rather drawish, and White's strong bishop on e5 also provides some compensation and attacking potential.

Finally, l 6 . . . :§:ac8 is another decent option: l 7.c3 ie8! 1 8 .l1Jg5? ( 1 8 .:§:el N would keep the game balanced.) l 8 . . . We7 l 9 .Wg4 m5 20.h4 h6 2 1 .l1Jh3 Black was better in Goldberg - Uhlmann, Nordhausen 1 986, and could have increased his advantage with: 2 l . . . h5!N 22.We2 exd4 23.ixc6 :§:xc6 24.cxd4 l1Jxh4+

a b c d e f g h 17.Lc6

l 7.dxe5N can be met by either l 7 . . . ie8 or 17 . . . aG, with equal chances in both cases.

1 7.Cllxe5? l1Jxe5 1 8 .dxe5 ixb5 1 9 .:§:xb5 (l 9.axb5 m5+) This occurred in Karell -Myers, USA 1 990, and here 1 9 . . . :§:f?!N+ is good for Black, as pointed ouc by Watson.

17 ... hc6 18.llixeS ha4 White has established an excellent outpost

for his knight on e5 , but he will need to play well to prove his compensation for the missing pawn.

19.�b4?!

1he most common move, but far from the besc.

l 9.Wg4? is even worse: l 9 . . . h5! 20.Wh4 (20.Wd l Wxc2-+) 20 . . . l1Je2t 2 1 .Wh l

8 i:. � ��·� �� & .illli � if'�. 7 1. A ?51'1 g v..;;, 6 ; ;" :. •.•• ;�

5 � - · � U. .t. 4 ,r� %�f �/ %� 3 u.�. ;.��{{l ' 2 • fj ·'il�ct fj �� 1 �.:� �.:H@ � """ . - 0 ,

a b c d e f g h 111is was Rimnueller - Rolle, corr. 1 988, and

here the improvement 2 l . . .ixc2N 22.:§:b2 :§:f5+ gives Black a significant plus.

111e best continuation looks to be l 9.Wd2!? l1Jh5 with approximate equal ity, as seen in Szyszka - Viberg, corr. 1 986. Black is a pawn up, buc White's strong knight on e5 offers fair compensation.

a b c d e f g h 19 ... Wxc2! 20.Wfxc2

20.�xa4? l1Je2t 2 1 .'i!?h l Wxd l 22.:§:xd l l1Jc3+ turned out badly for White in Bickel -Hund, Germany 1 983. Black's two connected passed pawns should bring him the full point.

Cha peer 23 - 1 O .�e2 305

20.Wg4?N is also an error: 20 . . . h5 2 1 .°®g5 '2le2t 22. 'it>h 1 b5 23 .1Wxh5 '2lxg3t 24.hxg3 ;gf5+

20 .. . hc2 2I .i.xf4 �xf4 22.g3 �ff8 23.�xb7 a5:i:

Whice has the beccer minor piece, bur Black's extra pawn rips che balance in his favour.

B) l l .exf6 gxf6

From chis posicion Whice somecimes goes for immediace kingside play with BI) 12.tlih4, bm che main line, unsurprisingly, is B2) 12.0-0.

1 2.Ei:b 1 N Wc7 transposes co che note co move 1 2 in variacion A above.

l 2.c4 1Wc7 is covered under the move order l l .c4 W c7 1 2.exfG gxfG - see variacion D 1 on page 309.

Bl) 12.lllh4

"l11is has been played a few rimes, bur ic looks like an odd move co me.

12 ... 0-0-0 Afcer this obvious reply ic is hard co find a

convincing concinuacion for Whice.

13.�h5 1 3 .g3 was played in Harcmann - Hercneck,

Germany 1 988. Now instead of 1 3 . . . '2lg6 I would prefer che more dynamic l 3 . . . Ei:hg8N 1 4.0-0 e5 wich an accive game for Black.

13 ... e5 14.0-0 Here I would l ike co improve on che game

Chrisc - Von Herman, Alrenkirchen 200 1 .

1 5.tlif3 1 5 .�xgG? hxgG 1 6.'2lxg6 Ei:hg8 1 7.'2lh4 Ei:g4

gives Black a crushing accack.

15 ... e4 16.tliel ©b8 Transferring che king co safery on a8 is an

imporcanc pare of Black's general plan in order co avoid crouble lacer in the game.

17.g3 1 7.c4 1Wc7 1 8 .cxd5 '2lxd4+

17 ... ©as I c is hard co give a clear judgement of the

position, bm I would rather play Black who has che safer king and accacking chances on che kingside.

306 7 . a4

B2) 12.0-0

s :iU U•U �-1 EiU.t� ., 6 /... . .

/'. •• �."-�. 5 � m 1. a a 4

,,�/'. .. . . . /'.� "g "U 3 U D BtZJU � � :/;.;; �'% �''0. 2

r . . ���.,g�r�P 1� �V�M� a b c d e f g h

12 ... 0-0-0 ll1e main alternacive l 2 . . . c4 is noc very

accracrive co me, as it would encer che line arising after 1 O.id3 c4 l l .�e2 f6 l 2.exf6 gxf6 a tempo down for Black. Instead I have chosen to recommend a more dynamic way of handling the position, trying co make use of che slightly passive placement of the bishop on e2.

13.gel l 3.c4 is che only way to try and punish

Black for noc playing . . . c4 himself. Now after 1 3 . . . \Wc7 1 4.cxd5 tllxd5 we have almost transposed to the lacer variation D l . The only difference is chat in che presenc version both sides have castled, which usually happens anyway in the other line, and indeed after plausible moves such as !4 .c3 and 1 4.dxc5 we immediacely transpose co positions considered under thac move order.

13 ... Wc7 I4.ib5 ll1e alcernacive is: 1 4 .ifl e5 l 5 .dxe5 fxe5<=±

Tjensvoll - Moen, Scavanger 2005. Compared with che main line below, the difference of having the pawn on a7 instead of a6 should noc be a disadvancage for Black.

�·�:i • �� 8 �,�,,,,,,/ , , ,Y.% ,,,?i:.�/· , ,Y. : ·•�1:.-1 5 a�m 1. a a 4 8 u �%/////. u 3 U D -tZJU 2 -� 8 � dl� � ,, . . . . . ��, . . . . ,�,, . . . . . z · . ";/,,;·rJ . .

�� �V�m � a b c d e f g h

14 . . . a6 1 5.ifl e5 16.dxe5 fxe5 17.igS 1 7.tllg5!?N E!:hg8! 1 8.tllxh7 e4 gives Black

a good deal of compensation for the sacrificed pawn in view of his strong pawn cencre and atcacking chances using che open files on the kingsicle.

lhe cext move was played in Rorvall -Helmercz, Scockholm 1 977, and here I suggesc:

a b c d e f g h l 7 . . . ig4N 1 8.h3 ihS 19.ie2 e4 20.Clld2 ixe2 21 .\Wxe2 ghg8=

Black is doing fine.

C) 1 1 .0-0 fxeS

After this nacural move White can choose between Cl) 12.CllxeS, C2) 12.dxe5 and C3) 12.c4!?.

Chapter 23 - 1 O.ie2 307

Cl) 12.llJxe5

This has been White's most common choice, bur it does not pose many problems to Black.

12 ... llJxe5 13.dxe5 0-0

l 5 .f4 has been played in a few games, bur Black is at least equal after either 1 5 . . . icG or 1 5 . . . d4.

l 5.ig5 ic6 1 6.Ei:e 1 was seen in Formanek -De Savornin Lohman, Amsterdam 1 980. Now 16 . . . hGN looks good, as l 7.ixe7 (or l 7.gg4 lllf5+) l 7 . . . \Wxe7 l 8.cxd5 gxd5 is favourable for Black.

15 ... lllxd5 16,gel ic6 17.ic4 Wff7= Black is solid.

C2) 12.dxe5 Wl'c7 13,gel

1 3 .c4 transposes to 1 2 .c4 \Wc7 1 3 .dxe5 , as covered in rhe note to White's 1 3th move in variation C3 below.

1 3 .gf4 0-0 14 .\Wd2 was played in Arkhangelsky - Hietala, corr. 1 989. Here I

suggest the improvement 1 4 . . . h6!N to prevent any tt:lg5 ideas. There may follow l 5.h3 ge8+ with a comfortable position for Black, whose ' French bishop' will soon find its way to freedom.

13 ... 0-0 14.gb 1 14 .gd3 was seen in Jacob

Kleinewillinghoefer, Germany 1 986, and now 14 . . . hG!N= is a good improvement, planning the typical manoeuvre of rhe bishop to e8 followed by g6 or h5.

14 . • . h6! Again this move works well.

15.c4 ie8 16.Wfcl b6 16 . . . d4!?N is a worthy alternative.

17.gb3

8 J•.,,, ,,,m%!)��-7 i� � � r� 6 . . . . . %•ll)m'i--mz . . . . %m s m w�, wru 4 lR�% •. , . . %m �m 3 mMm mll1m � %i";r, �-;r, �-� 2 � �,,Q.-/��J/l��J[j

- � �m �� a b c d e f g h

17 ... gdS!N Black brings his last piece into play and

keeps some initiative. Ir is worth emphasizing the important point

that, after playing . . . ges, Black should be ready ro recapture on d5 with a piece. In the game Damjanovic - Renman, Prague 1 979 , Black erred with 1 7 . . . lDfS? ! and after 1 8 .cxd5! exd5 Black no longer had a secure blockade of the e5-pawn.

308 7 .a4

C3) 12.c4!?

8 �m M•m �� 7 _,_.i.,_ i 6 /, , , , ,/.··l•i• "•

'/"" . �-'/,;O �-'l:' � : 1!1.��.�. 3 � � �ll)­�� ��·� ��-�m·'/,;O 2 - � �iLW� � r8% 1 �� 0•Vai=--- -%

a b c d e f g h l11is has not been as popular as either of the

previous options, but it seems logical to open some lines for the bishops.

12 ... Wc7 13.cxdS l11is is the most consistent way to open the

position.

Less challenging is: 1 3.dxe5

Dvorak - Vavra, Czechoslovakia 1 988. Here I suggest:

1 3 . . . 0-0!N As a rule Black should always think carefully before capturing the pawn on e5, as it costs time and improves the scope of White's dark-squared bishop. On the other hand, by keeping the centre blocked and using the e5-pawn as a shield, Black makes it harder for his opponent to create active play. Although the last move is a novelty, it immediately transposes to another game where White immediately erred.

14 .ig5? l 4.cxd5N exd5 is about equal, but I definitely have more sympathy for the Black position which boasts a sound pawn formation and no weaknesses. One should never underestimate the pair of bishops, but

at the moment they look rather harmless. l11e text move was played in Ketchum -Griego, Boston 1 988.

! 4 . . . h6!N l11e game continuation of l 4 . . . d4 was fine, but i t seems even stronger to challenge the bishop and maintain the central tension.

l 5 .. �xe7 t/jxe7 I ntending . . . ic6 with advantage to Black.

White has several weaknesses and lacks counterplay, while Black has a sound pawn structure and active piece play.

� "�--� 6

/, , , , , %·�-.. ... . , , %_ s M W � - m 4 � • � m m 3 ·�·%��]1%,,, 2 �-�-,,��

a b c d e f g h 13 ... llJxd4

1 3 . . . exd5 1 4.t/jxe5 t/jxe5 1 5 .dxe5 'Wxe5 opens up the position, which means playing into White's hands, who will now strive to make use of his powerful bishops. A possible follow-up is ! 6.ih5t g6 as in Dvorak - Vavra,

Chapter 23 - 1 O . .ie2 309

Czechoslovakia 1 988, and now l 7 . .if3N gives White sufficient play for a pawn. I analysed the position a bit more deeply and concluded chat Black can hold the balance, but overall I prefer the continuation seen in the main line.

14.dxe6 Ude - Schumacher, Seefeld 1 997. Here I

propose a simple improvement.

14 ... he6N 15.lllxd4 cxd4 16 . .ibSt lllc6 17.'W'f3

Preventing shore castling, but che black king can still go the ocher way.

8 :im �•m �� 1 Tf�.�Ti' 6 it_ �m�mlB--jm s m�m - • 4 8 m fl m m � ·.t�e. r·�w "�" 'yxr,;· · ' p� � m:a:�

a b c d e f g h 17 ... 0-0-0=

"Ihe position is in balance. White certainly has compensation for the sacrificed pawn, but Black is solid. In the near fucure he should bring his king to safety on a8, while remembering chat the pawn advance a4-a5 should always be met by . . . a6. Sooner or lacer White will probably have to exchange off the knight on c6 to make progress, which will lead co a position with opposite-coloured bishops and a likely draw, assuming accurate play from both sides.

D) l l .c4

8 !-�-�·w.·J-7 ;;� ' m ..tar ii� ' 6 �-- -j•·m:n,,-�•--jm 5 � _,g � �-- - -?. ;;, , , ,?, 0,,, ,% � 4 8m8D m m 3 -�-�-0-�-�-8 2 � 8 ��'ef� 8 'ef� ���•iif=--- - %-�

a b c d e f g h This is a logical reply to Black's .. .f6 break.

White intends to exchange some pawns co open the position for his bishops. However, Black's position is quite robust and White's centre also becomes weak.

Incidentally, a similar position has often occurred via the move order 1 0 . .ibS a6 l I . .ie2 f6 l 2.c4, as mentioned in the notes in the previous chapter, where I instead gave 1 0 . . . Wc? as my main line. In many cases the rwo variations proceed in parallel, with the placement of Black's a-pawn not making much difference. As a general rule, however, Black should be slightly happier in the present variation with the pawn on a7, as it makes his queenside slightly more secure.

1 1 ...'W'c? From here White can begin with either

Dl) 12.exf6 or 02) 12.cxdS.

Dl) 12.exf6 gxf6 13.cxdS

This exchange has been overwhelmingly the most popular choice. If White delays it then Black should play pretty much as detailed below, with a probable transposition after a few moves.

13 ... lllxdS 14.c3

3 1 0 7.a4

111 is solid set-up has the idea of preventing . . . c5. However, i t's rather passive and Black gets an active game after some srraightforward developing moves. Herc arc a few other ideas:

l 4.c4 l2ldc7 transposes to variation 02 below, but this move order gives Black rhc additional option l 4 ... lt:Jf4!? l 5.ixf4 '\Wxf4 l 6.dxc5 0-0-0 with equal chances, as tested in several games.

l 4.dxc5 0-0-0 1 5 .0-0 c5 Black has a strong centre and promising play. As is typical for such positions, rhc cxrra pawn on c5 has little impact and mighr even hamper rhc activity of White's dark-squared bishop. If he could get his knight to d6 then ir would be a different scory, bur ir is hard to see thar happening. One insrrucrivc example continued:

1 6.c3? Too passive. White should rry something else, bm I believe in Black's chances in any case.

1 6 . . . :!:'lhg8 1 7.lfih l lt:Jf4

8 -��� • .i. 7 � · �.!.�f �· i 6 � ,-��-$,$ .. �.

�- � T . : !�lj��j��. 3 ���-/ib-�.y %%' W&f I., ;:fro; A :{;If� 2 � ��fl.:§§ L..J fl:jj I ��?%%··�-j-�

a b c d e f g h l 8J�.c4?

111e lesser evil is: l 8.ixf4N ih3 l 9.ig3 :!:'lxd 1 20.:!:'lfxd 1 ig4+

1 8 . . . :!:'lxg2! l 9.ixf4 :!:'lg4!+ Lederman - Korchnoi, Beersheba 1 978.

s i.R R•R 2;1 7 iffTu�lilil���- ! 6 •�,�-T�i s m m111a · a 4 � m B a n 3 R t� BllJR

R %i-�� �/% ?*r�

2 ��.1r� a b c d e f g h

14 . .. 0-0-0 15 .0-0 ghg8 16.gel 1 6. 'itih 1 was played in Sucrin - Jahr, Bad

Woerishofen 1 99 1 . Herc 1 6 . . . icS!N looks like a good novelty, activating the bishop and clearing the cl-file.

16 ... eS! A logical breakthrough, making use of the

tactical possibilities in the position ( . . . ih3).

a b c d e f g h 17.c4

l 7.dxc5? occurred in Chen - Ornstein, Buenos Aires 1 978, and here Black missed a good opportunity: I 7 . . . llixc3!N I 8.ixc3 ih3+

1 7. ©h 1 ?! was once tried in the game Rioncgro - Moura, corr. 1 99 1 . Black has a few good moves here, but my preference is I 7 . . . ig4!N with an obvious initiative.

Chapcer 23 - 1 0.ie2 3 1 1

17 ... l2Jf4 18 . .ixf4 exf4 19.dS ih3 20.ifl

s �.�;j m.1� 1 m�; f 'lllllllll lll 6 Jliji? ••• ·� s a•• !�t '• B 4 !a'�'a Bm Ba 3 B D •�a.a 2 - - � lS � >��.:�:fisti .

. /. , . . . . . >'. m , . . . . . >'. ,,,, • . ,/. a b c d e f g h

20 ... ig4! 21 .'!Wb3 Afcer 2 l .£i.e2 Black has ac lease a repecicion,

but can also play on with 2 1 . . . Wb8!?N, bringing the king to safety and intending . . . il,xf3 followed by . . . llid4 at an appropriate moment.

21 ...La 22.\WxB l2Jd4? This position occurred in Vlugc -

Raijmaekers, corr. 1 982, and several subsequent games. Black has some weaknesses in his pawn strucmre, but the strong knight and active play along the g-file offer full compensation.

02) 12.cxdS lLixd5

White exchanges off one of his doubled pawns, before driving che enemy knight back from its central outpost.

13.c4 lLide7 14.exf6 gxf6

"Ihis position has been reached in over a hundred games, but not many of chem are from recent years. I have analysed three main moves, arranged in ascending order of popularity: 021) 15.d5!?, 022) IS.id and 023) 15.dxcS.

l 5 .�e3!? was a speciality of a Uruguayan player named Bernardon Roselli Mailhe. He played it duce times in the 1 980s, scoring two wins and a draw, buc nobody has repeated it since. In any case, after 1 5 . . . 0-0-0 1 6.dxc5 �hg8 17 .0-0 e5 l 8.1Wb3 Black was doing fine in Roselli Mailhe - R. Hernandez, Uruguay 1 985 . Ar chis point chc right cont inuation looks to be:

3 1 2 7.a4

1 8 .. .f5!N 1 9.!'i:fb l f4 20.id2 llif5---+ With good attacking chances for Black.

D21) 1 5.d5!? exd5 16.cxdS Cllxd5

8 XU U•U �� �� & -� A � � & 7 ?.'A% A �'e�.JL� � A 6 Z.. .. %u/�� %� %u s BDmf m' 'a !&I 4 ,. ,. �. "• � ·�.,m. BDWVM "R"i /. y: � / . "' � '

a b c d e f g h White has sacrificed a pawn to improve the

scope of his bishops. I have tested the White side of this plan in the analogous position with the black pawn on a6, in the line beginning 1 O.ib5 a6 l l .ie2. I won the game, but the theoretical verdict was not clear. Besides, in the present position the absence of the move . . . a6 makes the black king feel a bit safer on the queenside. The position offers an interesting starting point for deeper analyses, but so far Black has scored well .

17.\Wc2 A logical move, threatening the c5-pawn as

well as an annoying check on e4.

The less accurate 1 7.\Wc l ?! was played in Hammar - Ostberg, Boras 1 979. Here Black can improve with 1 7 . . . llicb4!N 1 8 .0-0 0-0-0 with the better chances.

17 .. . lllcb4!N This strong and concrete solution has already

been recommended by Watson. However, White has an important deviation which we will need to consider closely.

1 7 . . . \WdG is a solid alternative, and Black can also consider giving back the pawn immediately with 1 7 . . . 0-0-0!? , as played in several games. 'fl1e text move is the most critical though, as Black forces the play.

18.\We4t @ds

8 XU - U �:i 1 mf�t_BD8i' 6 " 'a' 'nDmDD s BDdm' 'DD 4 !�' 'alBDB 3 � � �t[j� 2 DDD.fft!n ••a · "m ·"Ri

a b c d e f g h 19.0-0!

This piece sacrifice is not mentioned by Watson, but it presents Black with some tricky problems. It also seems to be White's only path to equality .

The inferior continuation is: 1 9 .!'i:d 1 !'i:e8 20.\Wc4 b5!? (Watson mentions 20 . . . Wc8 which is also better for Black, but I l ike the forcing approach.) 2 l .axb5 llib6 22.\Wb3

a b c d e f g h

22 . . . !'i:xe2t! 23.Wxe2 �xb5t 24.Wel llid3t 25.Wfl ic4 26.\Wc3 llib2t 27.Wel \We7t

Chapter 23 - 1 O.ie2 3 1 3

28.�e3t (28.Wf e3? lllxd l 29.@xd I llld5+) 28 . . . lllxd l 29 .@xd l :§c8 30.:8e l ;gc6+ White has survived the arrack, bur Black still has an extra pawn.

19 ... :aes 20.\Wc4 a5! Grabbing che piece wich 20 ... lllb6?! is noc

to be recommended due to 2 I .1Mfh4 :8xe2 22.1Mfxf6t �c8 23.�xb4 cxb4 24.llld4 when Black is in trouble.

The cexc move gives stability co Black's position and prepares .. J%a6 co bring the lase piece into che game. The position is complicated and offers mucual chances. The following continuation is noc forced, but it features logical and accurate play on both sides.

21.:afdl @cs 22.hb4 ltixb4 23.ltid2

24.ih5 :ae7 25.\WgSt °1Wd8 26.\Wc4 \We? 27.°IWgSt=

White is not obliged to take the repetition, bur I do not believe he has an advantage in any case.

022) 15.i.c3

15 .. . 0-0-0 16.d5?! A logical try, but concrete analysis indicates

chat Black's chances are excellent.

1 6.dxc5 e5 leads directly to variation 023 below, and this may well be White's best bet.

1 6.0-0? cxd4 1 7.lUxd4 ie8 left White in a troublesome pin in Durao - Eslon, Spain 1 978. Herc White's best seems to be I 8.�g4N bur after l 8 . . . lllxd4 I 9.�xd4 �f7 20.:!:l:a2 ©b8 2 I .:i:l:d2 c5 22.�b2 �xc4+ Black is still better.

16 . • . exd5 17.ixf<> 1 7.cxd5?! is unimpressive: 1 7 . . . �g4 1 8 .�xf6

Wessman - McDonald, Groningen 1 986. Black has several interesting options, but best seems co be:

3 1 4 7.a4

1 8 . . . E:hf8!N 1 9 .ixe7 ( 1 9.llld2 ixe2 20.\Wxe2 E:xf6 2 1 .dxc6 lllxc6 22.0-0 llld4+) l 9 . . . lllxe7 20.0-0 lllxd5+ Black is much more active and has dangerous attacking chances on the kingside.

8 �-�� � �� !§1�t ·;· · · ', ·�··· ' : 11'itt•.�, 5 � -·� � 4 !•�,-�.�. 3 m�m�m�m�·� 2 m -1L�[j 8 �[j �� %.m-lm: . . . . %m��

a b c d e f g h 17 . .. ghf'S!

ll1is has led to two defeats out of two for Black, but these results were certainly not due to the merits of the opening.

Not that Black needs it, but I found another promising continuation giving good chances for an advantage. l 7 . . . E!hg8 l 8.cxd5 E:g6!?N

111e most interesting, although l 8 . . .. �e6 is fine as well.

1 9.dxcG?! Not the best move, but it is the one we need to check to test the viability of Black's play. 1 9 .. �h4 �e6+ 1 9.�xe7 lllxe7 20.0-0 't!?b8!t with a strong initiative for Black.

1 9 . . .. ?J.xcG 20.'W°c2 E!xf6 2 l .'W°xc5 lL'id5 22.0-0 22.0-0-0 'W°g7!+

22 . . . Elg8+ With a crushing attack along the g-file and

a8-h I diagonal.

18.i.h4 Perhaps White could try l 8 .�g5N although

I 8 . . . d4 1 9 .0-0 lllg6 keeps an edge for Black.

White should avoid 1 8 .�xe7? lllxe7 1 9.0-0 as played in Schreuder - Naaktgeboren, Netherlands 1 985 .

8 ··�� �� � 1 � .t. B.i..:IY .,,, 6 /. . /. •. /.�% . . . �. 5 .. �·- -4 lS � lS - . -3 B .//////-�· 2 • -�� LS � I �� .ef&�la«t�f"

a b c d e f g h Black has a few tempting continuations, but

the best one looks to be 1 9 ... dxc4N intending . . . t/Jg6-f4 and . . . i/.c6 with a dangerous attack on the kingside.

18 ... WfaSt 19.tLld2 Here I found a way to improve on the game

Embrey - Halldorsson, corl'. 1 986.

D23) 15.dxcS

Chapter 23 - 1 O . .ie2 3 1 5

1 6.a5 a6 These moves have been inserted in several games, and it remains to be seen which side will benefit from the pawn moves. I will highlight one small difference in the notes below.

1 7 . .ic3 e5 18 .Wid6 After these typical moves I found a strong new idea for Black:

1 8 . . . ;ghg8!N Here is where the placement of the pawns on a5 and a6 starts to affect the evaluation of certain lines. If Black plays by analogy with the main line below and chooses l 8 ... llJf5 , chen after 1 9.Wixc?t ©xc7 White may be tempted to try 20.0-0-0!?. In the main line che same idea would be less appealing as the pawn on a4 would be liable co come under attack at any moment.

a b c d e f g h

1 9.g3 1 9.0-0? llJg6! leads to trouble for White, for instance: 20 . .id2 .ih3 2 1 .Wfxc?t r:Jlxc7 22.gxh3 llJf4H

l 9 . . . .ig4 20.Wfxc?t r.tlxc7 White is a pawn up and has the pair of

bishops, but Black's central control, active piece play and better pawn structure add up to full compensation.

16 • • • e5 17.VNd6 tLJf5 Here too l 7 . . . ;ghg8!? is quite viable, and

1 8.g3 ( 1 8.Wlxc?t leads to the same thing) 1 8 . . . .ig4 1 9.Wfxc?t ©xc7 was equal in Tomorhuyag - Sobura, Gdynia 1 986.

18.Wfxc?t ©xc7 19.0-0 tLJfd4 Black can also play in a more relaxed manner

with l 9 ... ;ghg8!?N� so as not to force matters. Black has a harmonious position and full compensation for the pawn deficit.

8 �W/}}, �� - �� � J .. J � �-- - -� 1 �1. -.tm m1. 6 . . . . . /.mi)m ��1 �m 5 ·� � w m 4 lm�8?. . . . .

. ?.m %� 3 � ��---- - :��� �

��� .. 3� ��-���-� 2 � ��if� � fl§Y. ·- - -��� � ..

.. .. ?.r·�{-- ·/.

�� � � � � a b c d e f g h

20.tLJxd4 tLJxd4 21 ..idl 2 I . .ixd4 exd4 22 . .id3 a5!= fixes White's

a-pawn on a light square. Black has full compensation and in Lacey - Newman, email 1 999, he eventually ground out a win.

2l...©c6!� Black is by no means worse, and here too

he eventually won the ending in Timman -Korchnoi, Leeuwarden 1976.

3 1 6 7.a4

Conclusion

The position after I O.ie2 f6 is one of the most important in the entire French Winawer, at least outside of the main 7.Wi'g4 lines. There is a great deal of tension in the centre, and a variety of different pawn formations may ensue, especially when we consider that c3-c4 may come at any moment. White's primary goal in most of these lines is to activate his dark-squared bishop, but in order to do so he will have to make a concession of some kind, whether it be damaging his structure or exchanging pawns in a way that strengthens Black's centre. This leads to a dynamic and finely balanced struggle, but my analysis indicates that Black's chances are fully satisfactory.

Variation Index Chapter 1 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLic3 i.b4

A) 4.id2 dxe4 5 .\Wg4 ll'if6 6.\Wxg7 gg8 7.\Wh6 ll'ic6 8

A l ) 8 .ll'ige2 8

A2) 8.0-0-0 IO B) 4.\Wd3 ll'ie7 12

8 1 ) 5 .\Wg3 13

82) 5 .ll'if3 14

83) 5 .ll'ie2 15

84) 5 .�d2 1 6

Chapter 2 1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLic3 i.b4 4.Wl'g4 lLif6 5.Wl'xg7 ggs 6.Wl'h6 c5

A) 7.e5 23

B) 7.a3 gg6! 25

B l ) 8 .\Wh3 26

82) 8 .\We3 27

B3) 8 .1Mfh4!? \Wa5! 29

83 1 ) 9.axb4?!N 30

B32) 9.ll'ie2 cxd4! 31

Chapter 3

B32 1 ) 1 0.exd5?! 3 1

8322) 1 0.e5!N 32

1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lLic3 i.b4 4.i.d3 dxe4 5.Le4 ll!f6

A) 6.id3 c5 36

A l ) 7.ll'if3 36

A2) 7.dxc5 ll'ibd7 37

A2 1 ) 8.c6!? 37

A22) 8.id2 38

A3) 7.a3 40

B) 6.ig5 lLibd7 41

8 l ) 7.ll'ie2 41

82) 7.if3 42 C) 6.if3 c5 44

C l ) 7.a3 44

C2) 7.ll'ie2 ll:Jc6 46 C2 l ) 8.0-0!? 46

C22) 8 .a3 47

C23) 8.�c3 47

3 1 8 Grandmaster Repertoire 1 4 - The French Defence I

Chapter 4 I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Cllc3 ib4 4.a3 hc3t 5.bxc3 dxe4

A) 6.f3? 50

B) 6.'®g4 'Llf6 7.'®xg7 l:'!g8 8.'®h6 l:'!g6 51

B l ) 9.'®f4 5 1

B2) 9.'®h4 52

B3) 9.'®e3 'Llc6 53

B3 l ) 1 0.f3? 53

B32) I O.ib2 54

B33) 1 0.'Lle2 '®d6!?N 56

B33 I ) l 1 .c4 57

B332) l l .a4 59

B333) l l .'Llg3 60

B4) 9.'®d2 b6 62

Chapter 5

B4 1 ) 1 0.ctJe2 62

B42) 1 O.'Llh3 63

B43) 1 0.a4 65

I .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.ctJe2 lllc6 5.a3 ia5

A) 6.exd5 70

B) 6.'®d3 dxe4 73

B 1 ) 7.'®g3?! 73

B2) 7.Wfxe4 75

C) 6.b4 ib6 76

C l ) 7.'Lla4 77

C2) 7.ib2 'Llge7 78

C2 1 ) 8.4-Ja4 79

C22) 8 .g3 80

C23) 8.'®d3 81

Chapter 6 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.llle2 lllc6 5.a3 ia5 6.e5 lllge7

A) 7.g3 86

B) 7.'Llg3 0-0 87

B 1 ) 8 .ic2?! 87

B2) 8.'®g4?!N 88

B3) 8 .ig5 89

C) 7.b4 ib6 8 .'Lla4 0-0 92

C l ) 9.b5? ! 92

C2) 9.d f6 93

C2 l ) 1 0 . f4 94

C22) 1 O.exf6 96

Variation Index

Chapter ? l .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.ltJc3 ih4 4.ltJe2 ltJc6 5.a3 iaS 6.ie3 ltJge7

A) 7.b4 JOO B) 7 .f3 JOI C) 7.\Wd3 1 03

D) 7.e5 0-0 1 05

D I ) 8 .g3 1 05

02) 8 .tt:lg3 f6 1 06

02 1 ) 9 .f4 1 06

022) 9.exf6 1 07

Chapter 8 l .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.ltJc3 ib4 4.exdS exdS

A) 5 .id2 1 12

B) 5 .\Wf3 'We7t! 6.tt:le2 tt:lc6 7.'Wd3 tt:\f6 1 13

B l ) 8.a3 1 14

B2) 8.f3 1 15

C) 5.id3 tt:lc6 1 16

C l ) 6.tt:le2 1 1 6

C2) 6.a3 ixc3t 7.bxc3 tt:lge7 8.'Wf3 ie6 1 1 7

C2 1 ) 9.tt:le2 1 18

Chapter 9

C22) 9.E!:b1 b6 1 19

C22 1 ) I O.tt:lh3 1 19

C222) 1 0.tt:le2 'Wd7 120

C222 l ) l l .tt:lg3 120

C2222) l l .tt:lf4 120

C2223) 1 1 .0-0 121

3 1 9

l .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.lllc3 ib4 4.exdS exdS s.id3 lllc6 6.a3 Lc3t 7.bxc3 ltJge7 8.\Whs ie6

A) 9.tt:le2 124

B) 9.ctJf3 'Wd7 I O.lllg5 0-0-0 126

B l ) l l .ctJxe6 126

82) 1 1 .0-0 127

C) 9 .E!:b l b6! 130

C I ) I O.llle2 Wd7 l l .ctJg3 ig4!N 130

C l l ) 1 2.Wg5 132

C I 2) 1 2.\Wh4 132

C2) 1 0.lllf3 Wd7 l l .ctJg5 0-0-0 133

C2 1 ) 1 2.h3 134

C22) l 2. lllxe6 135

C23) 1 2.0-0 136

320 Grandmaster Repertoire 1 4 - The French Defence I

Chapter 10 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5

A) 5.C/Jf3 140

B) 5.dxc5 C/Je7 6.C/Jf3 C/Jd7! 141

B l ) 7.Wd4!? 142

B2) 7.id3 143

Chapter 1 1 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.'1Mg4 llle7

A) 6.a3? Wa5! 146

A l ) 7.id2 146

A2) 7.axb4 147

A3) 7.C/Je2 148

B) 6.Wxg7 l:!g8 149

B l ) 7.'1Mxh7? 150

B2) 7.Wh6 151

C) 6.C/Jf3 cxd4 7.C/Jxd4 C/Jg6 152

C I ) 8 .C/Jf3?! 152

C2) 8 .ib5t 152

C3) 8 .id2 153

C4) 8.id3 154

Chapter 12 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.'1Mg4 ctJe7 6.dxc5 lllbc6

A) 7.Wxg7? 160

B) 7.a3 162

C) 7.ib5 162

D) 7.C/Jf3 1 63

E) 7 .id2 0-0 1 65

E l ) 8 .f4? 165

E2) 8.id3!? f5! 9.exf6 l:!xf6 1 66

E2 1 ) 1 0.Wh4 1 68

E22) 1 0 .0-0-0 1 70

Variation Index

Chapter 13 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.Cllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.Wf g4 Clle7 6.clxc5 llibc6 7.id2 0-0

A) 8.0-0-0 174

Al ) 8 . . . bG!? 175

A2) 8 . . . f5 ! 177

B) 8.lLlf3 f5 1 79

B I ) 9 .Wlg3 179

B2) 9 .\Wh5 180

133) 9 .\Wh4 181

B4) 9 .cxfG 182

Chapter 14 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.id2 llih6

A) 6.f4?! 186

B) 6.�d3!? 186

C) 6.dxc5 187

D) 6.lLlce2 1 89

E) 6.lLlf.3 1 91

F) 6.a3 ixc3 1 92

F l ) 7.bxc3 192

F2) 7.ixc3 bG 193

Chapter 1 5

F 2 I ) 8.b4!? 193

F22) 8 .ib5t 194

1.e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lllc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 s.id2 lllh6 6.hl6!? gxh6

A) 7.ib5t 198

B) 7 .lLlf3 199

C) 7.a3 ia5 201

C l ) 8.ib5t 202

C2) 8.lLlf3 202

C3) 8 .dxc5 d4 9.b4 dxc3 10 .bxa5 \Wxa5 203

C3 l ) 1 1 . lLle2 204

C32) l 1 .\Wh5 205

C33) l 1 .lLlf3 206

32 1

322 Grandmaster Repertoire 1 4 - The French Defence 1

Chapter 16 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ClJc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.id2 tDh6 6.ctJb5 hd2t 7.Wfxd2 0-0

A) 8.lDf3 210

8) 8.c3 21 1

C) 8 . f4 a6! 9.lDd6 cxd4 1 0 .lDf3 f6 212

C l ) 1 1 .lDxc8 212

C2) 1 l .�d3 213

D) 8.dxc5 lDd7!? 211

D I ) 9 .f4?! 217

02) 9 .lDf3 218

03) 9.1Wc3 219

Chapter 17 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.tDc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 ixc3t 6.bxc3 tDe7

A) 7 .. �.d3 222

8) 7.h4 \Wa5 8.id2 1Wa4 225

B l ) 9.l"l:b ! 226

82) 9 .\Wb l 228

83) 9.h5 b6 229

83 1 ) 1 0.E!h4 229

832) I O.h6 gxh6!N J J .ixh6 ia6 1 2.ixaG lDxa6 230

832 1 ) 1 3 .lDf3 231

8322) l 3 .ig5 232

Chapter 18 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ctJc3 ib4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 ctJe7 7.ctJf3 h6!?

A) 8.�e2 238

8) 8 .�d3 239

C) 8 .h4 b6 243

CJ ) 9 .h5 243

C2) 9 .�b5"1 244

D) 8 .a4 0-0N 247

D I ) 9.�d3 247

02) 9.�a3 248

Variation Index 323

Chapter 19 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lt.'lc3 .ih4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 lt.'le7 7.a4 lt.'lbc6

A) 8.�g4?! 253 B) 8 .f4 253 C) 8.a5!? 255 D) 8 .h4 256 E) 8 .. lkb5 257 F) 8 .lll f3 259

Chapter 20 l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.lt.'lc3 .ib4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.hxc3 CfJe7 7.a4 CfJbc6 8.lt.'lf3 Wf a5 9.Wf d2 id7

A) 1 0 .!:J:b l !? 263 B) 1 0 . h4!? 264 C) 1 0 .dxcS 264 D) 1 0.ibS 265 E) 1 O.ia3 266 F) 1 O.�e2 l'k8 268

F I ) 1 1 .dxcS 268 F2) 1 1 .0-0 269

G) 1 O .id3 f6! 272 G I ) 1 1 .exfG gxf6 272

G l l ) 1 2.0-0 273 G 1 2) 1 2.dxcS 275

G2) 1 1 .0-0 fxe5 276

Chapter 21

G21 ) 1 2.lllxeS 276 G22) 1 2.dxeS 277

l .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.CfJc3 .ih4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 hc3t 6.bxc3 CfJe7 7.a4 lt.'lbc6 8.CfJf3 Wf a5 9.id2 id7

A) 1 0.lllg5?! 282 B) 1 0.c4?! 283 C) 1 0.g3 283 D) 10 .�c l 285 E) 1 o.:gb 1 285 F) 1 O.h4!? 286 G) 1 0Jild3 c4 287

G 1 ) 1 1 .�fl 287 G2) l l .Jie2 f6 288

G21 ) 1 2.exf6 288 G22) 1 2.0-0 289

324 Grandmaster Repertoire 1 4 - 1he French Defence 1

Chapter 22 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.ll'lc3 �b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 Lc3t 6.bxc3 ll'le7 7.a4 ll'lbc6 8.ll'lf3 '1Wa5 9.�d2 �d7 10.�b5 '1Wc7 1 1 .0-0 b6!?

A) 1 2.�c 1 293 B) 1 2.Elc l 0-0 1 3 .�d3 h6 294

B l ) 1 4 .g4!? 295 B2) 14 .Wc ! ! c4 297

Chapter 23

B2 1 ) 1 5 .�e2 291 B22) 1 5 .i/Jl 299

1 .e4 e6 2.d4 d5 3.tlJc3 �b4 4.e5 c5 5.a3 Lc3t 6.bxc3 ll'le7 7.a4 ll'lbc6 8.ll'lf3 '1Wa5 9.�d2 �d7 1 o.�e2 f6

A) 1 1 .Elb 1 !? 302 B) 1 1 .cxfG gxfG 305

B l ) 1 2.tt:lh4 305 B2) 1 2.0-0 306

C) 1 1 .0-0 fxe5 306 C I ) l 2. lllxe5 307 C2) l 2.dxe5 307 C3) 1 2.c4!? 308

O) l 1 . c4 Wc7 309 0 1 ) l 2 .exf6 309 02) 1 2.cxd5 lllxd5 1 3 .c4 llldc7 1 4.exfG gxf6 311

02 1 ) 1 5 .d5!? 312 022) 1 5 .�c3 313 023) 1 5 .dxc5 314

Ema n ue l Berg The French Defence VOLUME ONE

The French Defence is one of the most popular and rel iable responses to l .e4. Grandmaster Repertoire 1 4 - The French Defence 1 i ntroduces the Wi nawer Variation after the open ing moves 1 .e4 e6 2.d4 dS 3.ClJc3 ib4, a n d provides expert reco m m e n d ations aga i nst a l l of White's major poss ib i l ities, with the exception of the most critical 7.'\Wg4 l ine which wi l l receive specia l coverage i n Vol u me Two of the series. Vol ume Three wi l l deal with the Tarrasch, Advance a n d a l l of White's other options.

• Hundreds of novelties • A sound yet ambitious repertoire designed to win with Black • Covers all Winawer lines except 7. '\W g4

Emanuel Berg is a Swedish gra n dmaster with a peak rating of 2627. Twice Swed ish Cha m pion, he i s known both for h i s aggress ive playing sty le and for h i s thoroug h ope n i ng prepa ration. He is a l i fe long devotee of the French Defe nce, having played it successfu l ly for more than two decades.

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