Opposite-colored Bishops |
Written by Administrator | ||||
Tuesday, 16 November 2010 | ||||
Following Capablancas advice, it is better to start studying the intricacies of opposite-color bishops positions by reviewing endgames. At this stage opposite-colored bishops are often a sign of a draw. Sometimes even being a few pawns up may not be enough for a win since the weaker side may build a fortress. However, my experience from watching online broadcasts from tournaments (or commentating myself) shows that people often overestimate this concept and are eager to announce a dead draw in ANY opposite-color bishop position, which is not the case. The theory of opposite-colored bishop endgames is quite extensive and beyond the scope of a single article. Today we will consider just one feature, although very important positions with two extra pawns. To win, there normally have to be at least 3 files between the pawns and neither pawn should be on an a or h file if your bishop doesnt cover the 8-th square of that file (otherwise you might end up in a well-known bishop of the wrong color + a or h pawn drawn endgame). There are some exceptions (lost positions with less than 3 files), but this rule is still useful. Two connected pawns, although formidable looking, are not enough for a win if the weaker side achieves the correct defensive setup. It is also important to note that having other pieces (queens, rooks) on the board usually increases winning chances. This has more to do with the placement and coordination of the pieces than with potential pawn promotion. In the middlegame the placement of the bishops is a critical factor. Having got an active bishop vs a passive one, you may win the whole game. Pogonina vs the World is a nice illustration of this concept. Another critical aspect is an opportunity to attack the opponents king. As your partners bishop cant protect light (or dark) squares, you have great chances to penetrate into his position. Taking all this into account, a few simple rules may be suggested:
In the following game of mine played at the recent European Club Cup vs IM Elena Zaiats an opposite-colored middlegame occurred: I had a few promising chances to attack the opponents king, but didnt make use of them. Just like in soccer, if you dont score, then the opponent scores. I had to switch to defensive mode and play for a draw. Treating such positions too shyly is against its nature, so its no wonder that I ended up being worse and, eventually, happy with a draw.
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Last Updated ( Tuesday, 16 November 2010 ) |
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