In this continuation of the “Climbing the Rating Ladder” series I take on players of various ratings levels while pointing out typical mistakes and spots for improvement along the way (possibly my own!? :)). Here I commentate a 10+0 game against a player rated 1810 on Chess.com. The Alapin Sicilian (1.e4 c5 2.c3) is my go-to recommendation for players at the amateur level, as it’s a fundamentally sound line intending to build the e4+d4 pawn duo, which Black will often allow. In this game, my opponent chooses one of the strongest replies, 2…d5, which you may consider to be an “improved” Scandinavian. I decide to develop my queenside knight to a3, which soon leads to a tactical opportunity.
Review this game on Chess.com: https://www.chess.com/game/live/70158135111
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1950 Dubrovnik reproduction set (Bobby Fischer’s favorite!) on Chess Bazaar: https://www.chessbazaar.com/the-repro… You can use coupon code JOHN30 for 30% off!
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Life and Games of Mikhail Tal: https://amzn.to/2zq741X