Anstey 2 celebrated their first home game of the season with an impressive victory against Braunstone 1, securing a 3.5 – 1.5 win in Division 2 of the LRCA League. A much changed team than a fortnight ago, Anstey 2 was captained by Boris “The Toaster” and featured debutant Bob (newly transferred from Melton), Matt “The Dark Destroyer,” Rob, and Brian “The Griller,” who made a return to competitive chess after a long break. Braunstone 1 arrived with a slightly weaker lineup than in the first round, and Anstey seized the opportunity for a positive start to their home campaign.

Brian “The Griller” Fires Up the Q-side

Brian was first to finish, facing a lower-rated opponent in what initially seemed like a quiet encounter. However, he spotted a clever opening on the Q-side (queenside), sparking a strong offensive that left White’s position in shambles. After seizing a decisive material advantage, The Griller comfortably closed out the game and chalked up the first point for Anstey 2.

Boris “The Toaster” Holds Firm in a Tactical Battle

Captain Boris was next to conclude his game, which quickly evolved into a sharp, tactical contest. Although The Toaster kept pressing to make something happen, his opponent managed to counter with strong defensive and counterattacking play. In the resulting tense position, our teammate sacrificed a pawn for activity, only to overestimate the risks and exchange down to what appeared to be a losing endgame. His opponent, however, missed the winning opportunity, and they agreed to a draw—securing another half-point for Anstey.

Matt “The Dark Destroyer” Strikes on the Q-side

Returning to action for the second team, Matt “The Dark Destroyer” took a slower approach in his game. For a long while, it seemed locked in a stalemate of progress, with both players even keeping an eye on the developments in Boris’ game. Yet, with meticulous planning, The Dark Destroyer gained control on the Q-side, exchanging favorably to set up a dangerous pair of passed pawns. Under time pressure, the away team player launched a counter-attack on the K-side (kingside), but Matt’s tactical accuracy shone through, allowing him to promote a pawn. Faced with the overwhelming force of our teammate’s queen and rook pair, the Braunstone player resigned, marking another point for Anstey.

A Tough Outing for Rob

In what eventually ended being a wild game, Rob also brought the action to the board after a cautious opening. He built a promising position and nearly cornered his opponent’s rook, but the Braunstone player escaped with some sharp tactical moves. Seizing a chance with his knight, Black gained a crucial material and positional advantage, and our teammate found himself in a difficult position. With limited options, he opted to resign, bringing Braunstone their first point of the night.

Debut Delight for Bob

In his debut game for Anstey, Bob faced returning Braunstone player Richard Hanscombe. The game began with both players showing restraint, but our teammate steadily maneuvered his way to create a strong passed pawn. This advantage forced his opponent to sacrifice a rook, leaving Bob with a clear path to consolidate his position. After a solid finish, Richard offered his hand, and our top board player marked his debut with a well-deserved victory.

Final Score: Anstey 2 – Braunstone 1 (3.5 – 1.5)

This remarkable win gives our second team a strong start to their home campaign, bouncing back confidently from their initial setback at Loughborough. With solid performances across the board, Anstey 2 looks ready for an exciting season ahead in Division 2.