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The players were ready for battle and both displayed their game faces as they alternated between indifference, calm reflection, or a ‘just happy to be here’ expression
Though one cannot call Sergey Karjakin's choice of 1.e4 as a shock, considering his significant and varied repertoire, it did bring a few small thrills
It was obvious Carlsen had prepared for it but seemed unsure where the game was heading
The move above brought tears of joy as no effort was made to suggest that dreaded opening: the Berlin (knock on wood).
The appearance of the Ruy Lopez was an interesting choice
The first sign that things were not 'normal' was the huge line outside the building prior to the game's start. Hundreds upon hundreds came to see the great event
It was hardly a gathering of geeks in chess, rather it was family day as the number of children all over the venue was not a little surprising
Screens such as the one above, with the position on the board, the players, and Judit Polgar doing live commentary could be found all over the venue to ensure no one was left outside
The many benches were now packed with children and fans everywhere
Though some did watch the game unfold on the TV screens, many chose to enjoy the inspiration the match caused
Spain's most prominent chess reporter, Leontxo Garcia, was more than happy to share stories and anecdotes
Although, many chose to watch the games on Playchess live...
... others preferred to analyze as they always had: a board to set up and follow the action
Finally, the game was over. Far from thrilling it did bring in the fans
Sergey Karjakin - Magnus Carlsen (annotated by GM Ruslan Ponomariov)
Sergey Karjakin was happy to draw the game
The fans milled around the press conference area
Even Magnus was amazed at the sight
The players analyze some key moments briefly
Norwegian TV is in New York with a clear mission of promoting their favorite son
Maria Emelianova, a specialized chess photographer, is also there taking photos, except not for any news site. Instead, she is the private photographer of Sergey Karjakin!
Sunday is a rest day. Play will resume on Monday, November 14.