Sunday, March 15, 2020

2020 Mark Oestreich Memorial (Thoughts and Lessons)

I was actually hoping to win all three games of this tournament like I did back in 2012. I prepared an opening with my coach (IM Turzo) the day before for a player that beat me back in 2014. We analyzed the Scandinavian Defense. I was ready for him and he didn't show up.

I played a life expert the very first round. It was a great game but I resigned when I shouldn't have. I give up too easily (and not just in chess). We analyzed the game together in the Skittles Room afterwards. I was pleased with my play overall.

The second round I played a 1400 and won easily. I had the white pieces and he played the Sicilian Defense. He blundered a pawn in the middle game which allowed me to crack open the position.

The third round, I played against a 1700. It was one of the worst games I've ever played in a tournament. I got to play the King's Indian Defense (which I love). But, due to poor play a ways into the opening I got my Rook pinned to my King and lost miserably.

I talked to my buddy who was also in the tournament and told him I just wasn't in the fighting spirit today. He said he's had plenty of those days. Yup, just one of those days...

Next tournament: Chicago Open in May.. going to play in the Under 1900 section again.

No comments:

Post a Comment

Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.