"The fourth round on Sunday morning is possibly the toughest game of a weekend tournament, coming immediately after Saturday's tiring three games; it usually defines success or failure in the event. Win on Sunday morning and assuming Saturday wasn't a disaster, then you are reasonably assured a share of the prize fund. Lose and you're playing for pride in the afternoon.
Originally I was paired as White against Shaun Munson, a tough competitor at the best of times. At least I was fortunate to have the benefit of a double White as his higher grade meant that he followed the colour sequence. My record as Black against Shaun is abysmal. I had mentally prepared to play him when just before the round was about to start the draw had to be re-done as it was realised that a player that had requested a bye on Sunday morning had been included in the draw.
My day suddenly got tougher; not only did I have to play Black, I also faced Dagne Ciuksyte, the top seed. With no time to reassess this change of events the clocks were started and we sat down to play. Unsurprisingly (to me) I managed to mix up my move order early in the opening, played a dubious seventh move and was faced with an inferior position by move eleven. The prospect of trying to hold this against a stronger opponent was not appealing; drastic action was required! The result was the following game:"
Many thanks to Ian for this detailed analysis (and well done on beating an IM/WGM).
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