Boardwalk Open 2013

NM defibaugh

Updated: Nov 8, 2013, 2:42 PM | 9

Hey Chess.com!

After a brief hiatus from tournaments I played in the Boardwalk open with some good results, and I'd like to share the games and analysis with you.

Round 1 (Game/90)

Defibaugh(2289) - GM Kacheishvili(2662)

In round 1 I was paired with top seeded monster Kacheishvili. After an equal opening I managed to put some pressure on the veteran, and after a couple innacuracies by black was able to score the point.

In round 2 I faced another tough opponent with the black pieces, but I was determined to continue my wins! I played the opening smoothly and obtained a fair edge, but squandered all advantage with a series of 2nd rate moves and was even worse at one point. But with time trouble imminent, white made a couple innacuracies in a tactical ghost fight and allowed me to start 2-0.

Round 2 (Game/90)

FM Rubenchik(2363) - Defibaugh(2289)

In round 3 I faced the eventual tournament winner IM Justin Sarkar. I made a mistake early in an unusual opening, and although obtaining some counterplay was never able to fully equalize again.

Round 3 (Game/110 SD/30)

Defibaugh(2289) - IM Sarkar(2507)

Round 4 turned into another interesting game. After getting the better of the opening battle after white's move 13...b4?!, I missed a clever defense and had to scramble to remain equal. A dangerous king walk in the middlegame eventually ended in a 3-fold.

Round 4 (Game/110 SD/30)

Katz, A (2374) - Defibaugh(2289)

In the 5th and final round I was paired with an on-fire Goldenberg. On top of being in the USCL MVP race (finishing 3rd), his recent play has put him near the 2400 USCF mark. The winner of this game would go on to tie for 2nd place...well, if there was a winner.

Round 5 (Game/110 SD/30)

Defibaugh(2289) - Goldenberg(2380)

Boardwalk Open 2013

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