Wimbledon A away is always a difficult fixture and so it was a shame we were unable to field our strongest side to give them more of a test. Nevertheless everyone who played did their very best and we might have even got something out of the match had it not been for a late reversal of fortunes on Boards 1 and 7.

Mark Josse had White against Russell on Board 1 and, pretty much as usual for Russell, the opening was very sharp. Mark had a serious advantage after about 20 moves with Russell’s position looking rather loose. Unfortunately Russell is the absolute master of stirring up complications and chances out of nothing. He managed to do that here and Mark went wrong at the crucial moment. Unlucky, Mark.

Stef had a very tough assignment against FM Steve on Board 2 but he defended excellently and managed to get down to a rook and pawn ending in which Steve had an extra pawn but it was doubled and he was not able to make progress. They agreed a draw before the planned resumption. Well played, Stef.

Ian seemed to start off quite well against Robin on Board 3, although the position was extremely sharp, which is to Robin’s taste. Castling on opposite sides ensued. Ian felt he missed a chance along the way but unfortunately Robin managed to land his attack first. Unlucky, Ian.

The captain was up against Ian on Board 4. I was in the process of trying out a new defence but unfortunately found myself out of opening prep after move 8 in a position that you just have to “know how to play”. Sadly I did not “know” and made a few instructive errors that gave Ian a strong initiative. I somehow got to the time control with material still equal but, sadly, few squares for my pieces. The machine gave me minus 9 points (a bit harsh I thought!!) so I decided that I would not resume.

Board 5 saw Angus pressing to obtain an advantage throughout. Towards the time control he was a pawn up with two rooks and a bishop vs. two rooks and a knight. Sadly his sealed move was not the most accurate and subsequent analysis cast doubt on his ability to win. As the match was already gone Angus agreed a draw without resuming. Well played, Angus, unlucky not to win.

Board 6 saw Malcolm playing a solid game with the Black pieces against Nick. Well played Malcolm.

Michael spent the entire session battering Paul on Board 7 and was a piece up and contemplating his 35^th move when…..he forgot all about the clock and let his flag fall! This was a real tragedy. Unlucky, Michael.

Board 8 saw Rob up against the dangerous Victor. A full-on battle ensued which went to and fro before they decided to split the point. Well played Rob.

Paul Shepherd 3 April 2011