A Gareth Oliver Special

FM Vladimir Smirnov doesn't appear to be having a positive tournament at the SIO. He lost twice in a row now, first to a GM (which is to be expected), then most surprisingly to ACT player Gareth Oliver.

Mr Oliver, a bright young man who is currently studying Computer Science at the ANU, is a humble fellow and a gentleman. Tonight I had the good fortune of having dinner with him, along with about 20 other SIO combatants at some pizza place in Parramatta. His game today against Smirnov caused a little discussion among some guys that included no less than GM Ian Rogers.

Take a look at this! Gareth drops the Lady but is left with a surging attack. Smirnov cannot hold for much longer.


Black will be left with a whole piece up after, say, 23. Kf1 Ne3+ 24. Qxe3 Bxe3 25. Kxg2 c1=Q