Annotated chess game: Sicilian, Grand Prix Attack

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ANNOTATED GAME

Sicilian, Grand Prix Attack
evilgm (1923) vs. darren6464 (1523)
Annotated by: evilgm

(2037)
Chess opening: Sicilian (B23), Grand Prix attack, Schofman variation

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1. e4

There were a few things about this game that I thought were interesting, and wanted to talk through for my team, Kingslayers. Please add your comments to make the annotation a good learning experience for all. I thought it was a neat game.

1... c5

I have played many matches against id=darren6464, my team captain, and I was expecting a Sicilian, because he likes it. The Sicilian is something I used to adore when I was younger in chess, now I tend to like other lines better, but I do play it from time to time.

2. Nc3

I prefer a more closed response from Black instead of the more common Nf3.

2... Nc6 3. f4

I am a fan of aggressive openings, such as King's Gambit, and like the style of play that the Grand Prix Attack affords.

3... g6

Solid development by Black, preparing for a fianchetto bishop and castle.

4. Nf3 Bg7 5. Bb5

Again, I prefer aggressive play styles, and this opening by White is pure attack, hoping for Black to flinch somewhere.

5... Nd4

I believe that Nd4 is the perfect Black response. A knight outpost, doubly protected.

6. O-O

Castling is always wise. I can't tell you the number of games in which I failed to castle in time and wound up paying the price. Also, the Bishop isn't going anywhere just yet.

6... a6

Generally speaking, you do not want your opponent to be able to camp a piece in your territory for long. Rather than trading a knight for a bishop, Black is pushing development. When you can do two things at once, those are often better moves. I applaud Black's play so far.

7. Bd3

This move repositions my bishop far enough away for safety, potentially looking at a b5 pawn push down the road by Black. It also gives my e pawn some extra protection in case I need to move my knight on c3.

7... d6

Good move by Black. Further protecting the knight outpost and giving some options for his LSB to get into the game. Two things at once!

8. Nxd4

Trading is now the best course.

8... Bxd4+

When given the choice of multiple pieces from which you can retake, the one that gives immediate pressure is almost always the better play. There are, of course, exceptions. The DSB has an attack on my king and can still retreat to g7. Good move.

9. Kh1 Nh6

A good move in principle. Black preserves the escape plan for his DSB to g7 and develops his knight, in preparation of a castle. However, Black has to commit to ensuring his knight has a place to go should he come under attack.

10. Be2

Preparing for a d3 push, giving some space to my DSB.

10... Bd7

Continuing development, and getting ready to have a fully connected back row.

11. Bf3

Threatening an attack on b7 with an e5 play. At present, it's all about possibilities and laying the groundwork for taking advantage of minor inconsistencies or mistakes in your opponent's play. This game is very, very balanced. Black is playing very well.

11... Bxc3

I am not certain if this capture was well advised at this point. It's not a bad play. I probably would have castled instead, or maybe moved e6, to protect against f5. When you have already created an opening in your kingside, you do not want to let your opponent get rid of your bishop when he still has his own to attack that diagonal.

12. bxc3

When given an option of two pawns from which you can choose to retake, as a personal preference, I tend to take towards the center, not away from it. In this instance I don't think it mattered too much.

12... O-O

Finally the castle. Failing to get a king to safety in time can often come back to haunt you.

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