Poole V Southbourne

Press / Admin Comment

Possibly the largest match between 2 local clubs in a social, friendly yet competitive environment, the real winner was chess and everyone connected to it. Everyone enjoyed themsleves and it was a great, fun evening. Even the few gusts of wind (a few boards had to be reconstructed!) added to the friendly spirit and atmosphere. Poole were the deserved winners. Having gone 3-0 up early on, it looked like a lead they would not relinquish and so it proved as all their players fought very hard and bravely, many securing very good draws against higher rated opposition. It was fantastic to see all the juniors perform well on both teams. In worsening light (floodlight failure!) the last game between Joe and Finn finished around 9.30pm (the mass of spectators were already extremely close to the pitch / board - they thought it was all over - it is now!) to wrap up proceedings. Southbourne did have their chances but Poole were the worthy winners of this inaugural summer chess competition. Many thanks to all the Poole players for making this a pleasurable evening and for ensuring the Southbourne players were made to feel most welcome, also to non-playing captain Eric for organising the match to be played at such an excellent venue. Hopefully, we can run the summer league again next year.

Martin J Simons

On an evening played in

On an evening played in comfortable surroundings that is the Canford pub/hotel which now has surely become our summer outside venue a very enjoyable evening was had by all. After taking an early 3-0 lead with an excellent win by Duggs aka Tal when James overreached in the opening with his Q and paid the price. Quick wins followed by Simon and Tony and despite a spirited fightback by most of the Southbourne players which were mostly draws with the Poole team digging in the result I think was deserved. The final game as the light was disappearing was an end game show stopper where both Finn and Joe were either going to Q pawns or be mated - a fair draw was agreed to both improving players. 24 players competed, 4 very strong juniors, other stalwarts and a great evening of chess. Thanks for bringing 12 players Southbourne and as always good to see chess colleagues and in a social environment. Looking forward to next season and thanks to all for playing.

eric sachs