A quick chance to avenge their defeat from the previous week presented itself via the Charnley Cup. Chorlton were without Hope at 7.30pm and half an hour later their star player had still not arrived prompting a lesser graded opponent to be installed as a last minute replacement. Robert informs me that his opponent acquitted himself very well and came close to holding on for a draw. It wasn't to be though and Macc were 1-0 up. Around the same time, Man with the Hat and Phil Cat were returning draws. I had a strong position only to blunder a piece but somehow I managed to whip up enough counterplay to create an unclear position and a draw was agreed. Phil and Dennis had clattered off too much wood early doors and despite a bit of jousting, neither was going to concede an advantage. 2-1 to Macc. At this point, I had thought that the Secretary would secure the winning point from Board 3 but it was Chris that won in unfortunate circumstances. His opponent, not realising how or when the 10 second increments were being added, had unintentionally allowed his digital flag to fall. The Secretary, despite having material advantage, had allowed his opponent to shepherd a runaway a pawn and clever end game play enabled the Chorlton player to earn a draw. Tony had lost out in a blitz finish to a strong and in-form opponent but the team win had been secured. A Merry Xmas to all !
Man with the Hat