Following the excellent friendly performance against the Reform, the NLC looked forward to the Hamilton-Russell Cup match against the Chelsea Arts Club with a degree of optimism. After all, last year’s match marked our first Hamilton Russell victory.
But fate was not with the NLC warriors this time. The Chelsea Arts fielded a strong side, and the match was only five boards. Despite superior NLC neckware, the chess didn’t quite come through. The Chelsea Arts finished comfortable 4-1 winners, with only Mister Giffin QC MA (Oxon) coming through
with the point.
Ready to play
Board 1
Doctor Kirby played white against the Bermuda number one Richard Black in what turned into something like a Caro-Kann/French. The Doctor didn’t play well, running out of ideas at about move ten, and was beaten easily by an excellent opponent.
Doctor Kirby absent and looking for his positional sense
Board 2
Mister Chamberlain had Black against the very dangerous Izzie Thomas. The thing with Izzie Thomas is that he shows you exactly what he’s going to do, (usually d4, Nf3, Bd3, c3 and an eventual King’s Side attack with the f or h pawn being shoved up the board). The opponent just has to stop it, which is easier said than done. Mister Chamberlain had a reasonable King’s Indian set-up but blundered into a skewer.
Mister Chamberlain getting the Izzie Thomas treatment
Board 3
Mister Giffin QC MA (Oxon) secured the only point on Board 3 against Matthew Flowers. Our legal star has taken up a simple plan. Throw the pawns forward on the Queen’s Side and press the opponent into a mistake. For the second time in a week it worked like a charm. He’s having a good season.
Mister Giffin QC MA(Oxon) coming through with more points
Board 4
Mister Dias had a hard game on board 4 against Mike Radcliffe. Considering the opponent and the ring rust Mister Dias is still feeling, it’s no surprise that it was a swift victory for the Chelsea Arts player.
Hard luck Mister Dias!
Board 5
Despite playing himself on bottom board against Jo Coles, Captain Hamme couldn’t quite come through with the goods. Despite his Morphy-like performance the previous week, our skipper sadly went down to defeat.
One week you’re playing a Count, the next week you’re brought to account
Dinner
But this is NLC chess, and we can’t feel down for long. This is especially true when you’re playing a sociable bunch like the Chelsea Arts team. The Dining Room came through in fine style, with Cauliflower Soup, Jerk Chicken and Rice and Apple Cake. That’s the sort of thing we like.
Far more balanced than the match