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Game of the Month
White: Phil Jarrette 1800
Black: Josh Dubin 1715
1. g4?! This is the Grob Defense, an unorthodox opening. Theoretically
dubious, it is a potent psychological weapon. Black often feels White is
playing without respect for his opponent, and therefore feels an
imperative need to punish White for his arrogance. This can lead Black to
overextend his counterattack and falter by being too hasty. Another
consideration White might count on is superior preparation in opening
variations, in case Black has not put much time in the study of this
obscure opening, which is likely. However, to obtain these advantages
White accepts a severe and permanent structural weakness in his kngside.
Against two such quality players as in this game, the resultant clash is
sure to be interesting.
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1... d6 This move is a bit too conservative for Black. Preferable was 1...
d5 2. e3 e5 3. d4 Nc6 4. Bb5 a6 5. Bxc6+ bxc6 6. dxe5 Qg5 7. Nf3 Qxg4. But
as is typical of hypermodern openings, there are many variations and
transpositions possible. It makes for an unpleasant situation to be in.
Especially in such unfamiliar territory, it is dangerous to be
overconfident. The best approach is to recognize that some openings are
unusual for a reason, determine the reason, and stick to basic principles
of play.
2. Bg2 c6 Black should be developing his pieces with 2... Nc6. He needn't
be concerned that White would capture, as exchanging the light squared
bishop would leave the Kingside very weak. Further, this move will make it
hard to find a good place for the knight later.
3. h3 g6
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4. c4 Bg7
5. Nc3 Nd7
6. d3 Ngf6
7. Bd2 O-O
8. Qc1
White looks to attack the Black kingside by removing the defending Black
bishop and prying open the pawn cover with the already advanced g pawn.
This plan is attractive but has only a small chance of working. Black
could react by pawn thrusts in the center and developing his pieces toward
the center, where the white king makes a juicy target. White would be
forced to castle and thus depriving the rooks access to the h file.
8... Re8
9. Bh6 Bh8 Black is just not giving White anything he's aiming for. In an |