Big Winner!!

Went to the chess club yesterday and won 2 out my 3 games. My last game we were playing 25m with a 5s delay. I sacked a Bishop for 2 pawns and a raging attack. I was really beggining to tear him up when I got short on my clock. My flag feel just as I was finishing him off.

So I was very happy with my play after many losses the last couple times I was at the club. I was sitting there enjoying enjoying the moment when the TD comes up and says "Here.". I look up and his is holding out $6. I say "Huh?". The TD tells me I tied for first. So minus the $5 entry fee I won a whole $1.

I have learned some new lessons as well. There is book learning and then there is understanding. I have always read about and some times played for the center and putting rooks on open files. I never really fully understood the importance of it till lately. I always liked the attacking game as I am pretty sure about 90% of the Knights do. I play openings that usually involve taking space and attacking on the king side. It is amazing how many players will castle short anyway. Anyway I would usually play on the flank trying to go for the kill. I have learned that supporting the center aids in these attacks and often allows for attacks from both sides of the board. Doubled rooks on open or half open files in the center are great for this. Plus it often restricts your opponents movement. Seems obvious but now it is more than just a memorized lesson.