After the mauling at the hands of Altrincham B, it was probably a good time for the C team to take a month off. The short trip across the county was made in brilliant sunshine and a far cry from the darkness that prevails in the winter months. Having won the first fixture against Stockport by the narrowest of margins, another nail biter was expected. Tom was first to finish, he never got going and was mated by an unholy bishop. David S was quick to equalise, having won the exchange he was able to make his material advantage tell. Another competent performance, well played! 2 wins required and glancing at the boards I thought that we might take all three. Unfortunately, Marc lost a white knuckle ride of a game that had the locals and bystanders analysing long into the night. A quieter game was being played out by the Man with the Hat whose opponent resigned 2 pawns down ( obviously not aware of my propensity to self destruct)! All eyes on board 3 where Ray had pushed his king far up the board to support his passed pawn. However, after his youthful opponent gave up his last piece (a Rook) to take the pawn, Ray’s rook was then needed to stop the advance of 4 pawns (2 x doubled up) waddling up the centre of the board. Nobody seemed to know what the outcome should or would be but a masterclass in temperament and technique from Ray wins the match for Macclesfield C.
Man with Hat