Cockermouth Chess Club
Problem 45 - Clothes pins
White to play and win
White has inferior material. Even if he gains the black bishop, he would not be guaranteed a win. How can he engineer a winning position?
Solution of problem 44
8
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1
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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.
White: Kg1, Qd5, Ra1, Re1, Nf3, Bb2, Bg2, Pa2, Pb3, Pf2, Pg3, Ph4
Black: Kh7, Qc7, Ra8, Rf8, Bc8, Bd6, Nc6, Pa6, Pb7, Pf4, Pg7, Ph6
The black king is a little isolated but Black's position looks solid enough as all important squares are covered. When looking to a possible win, always consider first the forcing moves, usually a check or a threat of checkmate, even if it involves a piece sacrifice. In this position, the best move is:
1. Ng5+! hxg5
The best answer. For instance, if instead Black plays 1...Kh8 2.Ne6 fxg3
(not 2...Bxe6 which is deadly: 3.Rxe6! followed by the unstoppable mating attack 4.Be4 Kh8 5.Rxh6# or 4...g6 5.Bxg6+ Kg8 6.Re7+ Rf7 7.Qxe7#)
3. fxg3 Qb6+ 4.Kh1 and White has an overwhelming attack with both Black f8-rook and g7-pawn attacked.
2. Be4+! g6
Or 2...Kh8 3.Qxg5!
3. Bxg6+!
Another forcing sacrifice. Very nice!
3. ... Kxg6
4. Qxg5+ Kh7
5. Qh5+ Kg8
6. Qh8+ Kf7
7. Qg7#
All of White's moves were forcing.
Note that the white bishops were the most important pieces in this position. The knight sacrifice had only the purpose of opening the lines for the bishops. This is thematic when attacking with bishops.
Last update: 13-07-2008
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