Understanding before Moving 40: The Critical Move (3)

by ChessBase
8/15/2021 – Herman Grooten is an International Master, a renowned trainer and the author of several highly acclaimed books about chess training and chess strategy. In the 40th instalment of his ChessBase show "Understanding before Moving", Herman travels down memory lane and takes another look at critical moves. | Photo: Tommy Grooten
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One of the nicest people I have ever met is Grandmaster Jonathan Tisdall. Born in New York, he moved to  Ireland and later ended up in Norway, where he became national champion three  times (1987, 1991 and 1995).

He combines his profession as a journalist with coverage of major chess events. When he released the book Improve Your Chess Now in 1997, I immediately bought it. Later, he also co-authored the nice book Five Crowns with Yasser Seirawan.

I met Jonathan several  times at tournaments in the 1980s and 1990s and we have played twice against each other. He should have won the second game, which, however, was very complicated.

In the diagram position, the black pieces occupy threatening posts in the center and it seems as if a tactical decision is in the air. I knew I had to do something to counter his attack and after the game I was satisfied with my play but modern engines indicate that Black still could have won brilliantly.

Back then I won the game but the question: what is White's best option in this position?

 
H. Grooten - J. Tisdall, Lugano 1985
White to move

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