AThe Los Angeles Times Los Angeles, California Sunday, May 17, 2015 - Page 64
Chess: A Knight's Tour - Castling and Pawn Storming
As in any race, timing is everything. A few sharp tactics to hasten one's advance or miscalculations slowing one down can prove decisive. This column's featured game is an excellent case in point. It took place between 15 year-old Bobby Fischer and Bent Larsen, one of the top non-Soviet players in the world. The event was the Interzonal, a meeting of the best players from each geographic area on Earth. The 21 competitors were hoping to be one of the final six to qualify for the Candidates tournament to select a challenger for the world champion. Few thought the teen would qualify, but he did.
In Fischer's encounter with Larsen, a Dragon Variation of the Sicilian Defense occurred. Both sides pushed forth their pawns supported by their major and minor pieces. With Larsen threatening to break through, Fischer struck first, sacrificing a Rook for Knight (move 22) to quickly open lines for a successful King attack. Given one extra move, Larsen would have played a4 attacking the Bishop and followed with a break into the King's pawn shield. As it was, Fischer's pawn protection was untouched and Larsen's was obliterated.
Chess: A Knight's Tour
Castling and Pawn Storming 17 May 2015, Sun The Los Angeles Times (Los Angeles, California) Newspapers.com
