A short report this week as we only had one match, but it turned out to be a good one.

Our Thames Valley B team entertained Hounslow B, not one of the stronger teams in the division, and, outrating our opponents by about 200 points a board, the result was never in doubt.

Most of the games were hard fought. Raghu was first to score, using the Dutch Defence to record a crushing win. Maxim and Pablo were both a good pawn up, and, although Sampson also had an extra pawn, his opponent had more than enough compensation in the ending. Meanwhile, Alastair was building up a strong kingside attack, while Simon’s game always looked level. Sampson was more than happy to agree a draw, while Pablo and Alastair both broke through decisively, and Simon duly shared the point. Maxim had looked like he was going to win quickly as his major pieces were surrounding the white king, but his opponent defended tenaciously, surviving to the end of the session.

Thanks to Hounslow B for an enjoyable match. We look forward to taking on their A team on Monday.