On Monday Wolverhampton division 2 team hosted Wolverhampton, who are struggling in this division.

When they arrived their captain informed us of a default on board 6, 1-0 up in what appeared on paper to be one of our easier matches became even more so when we exchanged teams as Wolverhampton were missing some players.

First to finish was Eric Horwill who was a large amount of material ahead before his opponent reluctantly resigned.

Dave Scriven had a massive attack which his opponent tried to blunt by exchanging queens but his resulted in Dave winning a pawn and improving his position at which point his opponent resigned.

This was followed by 2 more wins for John Foxall and Julie Wilson.

Also on Monday Dudley Division 3 team hosted Walsall Kipping. They all lost relatively quickly.

Wednesday Birmingham division 1 team travelled to Boldmere who were in serious danger of relegation.

It must be said that we were also too close to the relegation zone so a loss to Boldmere would make the remainder of the season very nervous.

Both teams were missing their top player which made us slight favourites. Stourbridge won in style with wins for Jeremy Fallowfield, Greg Dyett and Eric Horwill and draws for Nick Arkell, Nic Fallowfield and Ron Evans.

We are now 5 points ahead of the two teams in the relegation zone, so not yet mathematically safe but looking far better than if we had lost to Boldmere.

Whilst our top team played at Boldmere our Wolverhampton division 3 team hosted Lichfield. Wins for Jet Ajimal and Sam Bradley with draws for Tony Shaw, Colin Woodall and Martin Wood gave us a 3.5 – 1.5 win. This win pushed us into the promotion places, but we are unlikely to stay there as Walsall Kipping are only one point behind us and have three matches in hand.

If you are interested in playing for Stourbridge or would just like to improve your game, phone Dave Scriven on 01384 423642 or visit www.stourbridgechess.f9.co.uk for more information about the club.