Sometimes we have opponents of a similar strength to us but who we struggle to play against. There can be a number of reasons for this, for example they can play very quickly and this puts us off. There can also be personality issues, for example it might be that we get intimidated by someone with a confident demeanour.
The issue that can be handled systematically is an opponent's style being awkward, for example we might like to create complications but then meet a good calculator who is not intimidated. One of the most famous examples of this was Mikhail Tal's difficulties against Viktor Korchnoi, the Tal magic just didn't work like it did against other opponents. Another case was that Paul Keres struggled against Mikhail Botvinnik, who didn't allow Keres the free flowing play in which he revelled.
In my own career the best example was how Mark Berkovic learned to play against me, after losing the first one he made subsequent encounters very dry and technical. I've featured two of our games in this week's Chess Questions Answered video and this was very good work by him. It's also something we can all learn from.
Vimeo Closing Its Video On Demand
Unfortunately Vimeo is closing its Video On Demand service in November, so I'll no longer be offering any titles through them. Those who have purchased one of my videos on this platform will be able get access to the materials at Tiger Chess by sending me their receipts, these are available here when you are logged onto your Vimeo account.
Sam's Youtube Chanel
My son Sam runs a Youtube channel in which he streams his live games on chess.com. This shows considerably more bravery than I'm able to muster, so please check it out and subscribe. I think he's doing a nice job.
Upcoming Events
This is how things look right now having withdrawn my availability for the European Senior Team Championships. I might get invited to the English Senior Championships in October, in which case I will probably play:
August 1-9: British Championships, Coventry, UK
I've accepted an invitation to this one (the Championship itself) and look forward to playing.
August 21-23: Manchester Summer Congress, Bolton UK
This is a long standing event which is now run in a nice venue and with good prizes. Details can be found here.
September 25-27: Hull 4NCL
The 4NCL Congresses are always well run, so I'll be playing in this one. Details can be found here.
October 23-25: Scarborough Congress
I'm intending to play in this one if I can. Details are here.
October 26-31: English Senior Championships, Peterborough
This is also up in the air unless and until I get invited. Details can be found here.
Tiger Chess Themed Training Tournaments are organized on a weekly basis at Lichess, featuring selected opening variations. You can check out what's coming up here.
Have a good weekend.
Nigel
