ACP Cup Riga 2013 Part III

Chessbibliophile offers the third instalment of the report on ACP Cup, Riga.

The first two instalments are here and here for those who missed. -Ed.

September 15 Semi Finals

“How do I get past Peter?”

Sasha had every reason to feel concerned as Peter proceeded to outplay him altogether to reach the following position:

Here is the game in pgn

Of course he is winning. But in time trouble he made an impatient move handing over initiative to his opponent. Here is what happened:

“I have blown it.”

It’s all over!

The other meeting Nepomniachtchi – Ponomariov was first evenly contested with each player winning a game.

Sadly, in the third game Ponomariov allowed himself to be outplayed with White after the queens were exchanged. In the fourth game Nepomniachtchi conducted a blitzkrieg attack and Ponomariov capitulated.

(A tense encounter, Ivanchuk remains an interested spectator)

Here is the game in pgn

Nepomniachtchi played enterprising chess and deserved to win this minimatch.

Results:

Grischuk-Svidler 1½-½

Nepomniachtchi-Ponomariov 3-1

Thus the stage was set for the final contest, Grischuk-Nepomniachtchi.

Credits:

The images in this report are by the talented photographer,

Lennart Ootes who also took care of the official site.

Thanks, Lennart!