Traps, Tricks & Mistakes: The Hunter Hunted

In the initial part of the game, it is advisable to develop pieces and fight for central squares. That is what chess manuals and coaches recommend. Nevertheless, it is a player’s decision which piece is more convenient to develop.
There are situations where the concept of ‘piece development’ is not enough because the player needs at the same time, evaluate the consequences of his/her move.

In today’s example, White plays according to the opening basics but fails in the appropriate evaluation of his move.

White’s mistake was to fight for one square which his opponent had absolutely under control. With an accurate evaluation, White would have found that another developing move like 4.Nf3 would be more convenient because of the e5-pawn weakness.

In these uncertain times of COVID-19 pandemic, chess fans can not enjoy games over the board. But our virtual Chess.com club organizes online tournaments and matches. Register now and join it.
Check regularly the website World Health Organization for updates about COVID-19. Stay safe!