Lessons From Tegernsee II

THERE are two types of 'automatic' move in chess.

One comes in the opening, when following theory and/or preparation.

I know there are some players who, even when they have the white pieces, like to spend a minute or two getting themselves into the right mood before starting the game (why they cannot do this before the clock starts, rather than afterwards, I do not understand).

The other kind of 'automatic' move comes when a move is forced, eg a recapture.

But be sure the move really is forced.

James Mason, who was the strongest player in the world for part of the 1880s, according to Chessmetrics, wisely stated: "Never make a good move too soon."

My opponent in round two would have done well to bear that in mind when the following position arose in our game.

I have just captured a pawn on c6

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Almost without pausing my opponent replied 19...Qxe3+?, but after 20.Kd1 he was completely lost.

The a8 rook is hanging, and White threatens 21.Re1 with 22.Re8# to come.

Black should have played 19...Rb8, after which White is well on top, but the game goes on.

CONCLUSION: before playing an 'automatic' move, make sure it really is forced. It might be a mistake, or, as Mason pointed out, even if it is a good move, there might be a better one.