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Solution of problem 60
White: Kd4, Ra6, Pc3, Pg2
Black: Kh4, Bc4, Pa5, Pb5, Ph5
With a rook for a bishop, White seems to have the game in hand. Yet, after 1.Rxa5 Kg3, Black as good drawing chances as White will have to give back his rook either for the bishop or the h-pawn.
However, White has a winning combination:
1. Rg6 !!
This move blocks the black king and h-pawn. It now appears that Black is powerless as his a-pawn is too far from pomotion and the bishop cannot give any serious threat.
1. ... a4
2. Ke3 a3
3. Kf4 a2
Although the a-pawn is only one move away from promotion, White has just enough tempo to give a fatal thrust:
4. Rg3
Threatening checkmate with 5.Rh3#. Black has only one answer...
4. ... Be6
5. Rh3+ ! Bxh3
6. g3#
Very nice finish.
Winning material may not be sufficient to win an endgame, but blocking all counterplay and threatening the king safety is usually decisive.
Evaluating correctly the tempo is also key to many endgames where pawns are on a run to promotion.
Problem 61 - Ultimate resort
White to play and draw
Two pawns and a bishop down, with his king cornered in a mating net, White's position seems completely hopeless. Yet he has one unexpected move that can save him the game.
Can you see it?
h
g
f
e
d
c
b
a
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
If you want more hints or if you think you have found the solution and cannot wait to check it, please feel free to e-mail us.
