Since the previous half-termly chess update, we have played three further fixtures and an extra ‘B’ match. Our latest run of games started with a painful 9.5 to 2.5 loss to the ‘D’ team of Wilsons Grammar School, this was particularly disappointing as we beat defeated their ‘C’ and ‘D’ teams last season. However, as Wilsons are amongst the very best chess schools in England (currently double champions) we took this humbling on the chin, looking to improve.
We bounced back in impressive style by winning our next two matches against the ‘A’ teams of both Trinity School (8.5 to 3.5) and Dunottar School (6.5 to 5.5), the latter an incredibly tight match. Our ‘B’ team also defeated Dunottar 8 to 2 in a comfortable win. As things currently stand, we have a decent chance of finishing second or third in the Surrey League East Division 2, but as we are only at the half-way point in the season there is still a lot of chess to be played. Our aim is to defeat Reigate, Trinity and Dunottar in the reverse fixtures and continue with the positive momentum.
Our team captain Karan (Y12) continues to be an inspiration to the other players, setting a terrific example on our top board, scoring 5 out 6 points over the three league matches. He has been ably supported by Fred (Y11), Dan (Y13), Harry (Y12), Jamie (Y12) and Lila (Y8) who have all picked up vital points over the this run of fixtures. Marcus (Y11) has also played himself into ‘A’ team contention with a run of good form, scoring a crucial victory in the edgy Dunottar fixture.
In the ‘B’ match against Dunottar we were delighted to field two debutants, Christian (Y6) and Alberto (Y10) both scoring double victories. It is very rare for pupils who are in Year 6 to play for the school team (Christian is only the second, following Lila, now in Y8) with a remarkable and very composed, confident, performance. Other players who picked up victories included Tim (Y9), Eddie (Y9), Thomas (Y9) and Manasseh (Y12).
Captain Karan has also been running extra coaching sessions in the Marquand Room of the library at 7.55am on Wednesday morning. This is a great opportunity to improve chess strategy and this new club will continue into next term. Pupils can add themselves to the SOCs register or see me in the library for more information.
Mr Jones, Senior Librarian and Archivist
