This week was finals week and saw Stourbridge chess club field teams in 2 finals. Unfortunately SCC have been the losing side in several finals in recent years. This year everyone was hoping we could bring home the silverware.

The first final was the Wolverhampton league Humphries cup for players graded under 130 against local rivals Halesowen.

The first serious advantage went to Stourbridge’s Jet Ajimal who capitalised on his opponents’ mistake to force checkmate; 1-0 to SCC.

Colin Woodall was 2 pawns up against Maureen Clarke but his queen was out of play. He then blundered under pressure to give Maureen the win;1-1.

In the quick play finish Halesowen’s Jon Asbury blundered to a knight to give Sam Bradley the win. 2-1 In a 4 board match SCC had won boards 1 and 3 so board count meant Stourbridge had won the match and the trophy. In light of this board 2 agreed a draw in a level position.

The following night, Stourbridge’s Birmingham Division 3 team took their 3.5 handicap to neutral venue Warley Quinborne to face South Birmingham 1’A’ in the Terrill Trophy final. South Birmingham 1’A’ won division 1 with a perfect record and would be likely to clean sweep us. Fortunately for SCC, South Birmingham were missing 3 of their top players but still had a formidable line-up. First to fall was Steve Jukes on board 1. Then on board 3 Julie Wilson gained an advantage when she won a rook and 2 pawns for 2 bishops. As SCC only needed 3 draws to win the match, she offered a draw which was accepted as her opponent was also short of time. Meanwhile on board 4 Paul Sharratt succumbed to a massive kingside attack. This left the remaining 3 games adjourned. Of these Dave Scriven is a pawn down so with best play would probably lose. Tony Shaw’s position looks level and John Foxall may be ahead in his game. So John and Tony both have chances to gain the point needed to lift the trophy. All 3 games resume on April 30.

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.