Dorset Juniors win and draw in Round 3 of the Junior Online 4NCL

Dorset Juniors 1: Won 5.5 – 2.5

This was our toughest match in Division 2 so far. Although our team outrated the opponents based on their 4NCL ratings, their actual ratings were much higher.

Two nice wins each for Zander and Hugo, and a win and a draw (threefold repetition) for Jack, guided the team to what was in the end a reasonably comfortable win but at one stage it was much closer. Michal had two tough games: but these will be a good learning experience for him in advance of the Dorset Junior Chess Championships on Sunday.

The result means that Dorset Juniors 1 remains top of Division 2 Group A after 3 rounds.

Dorset Juniors 2: Drew 4 – 4

The team’s best result this season, with a nice 4-4 draw against a much higher rated team. A number of the players in this team are inexperienced and are playing competitively for the first time. It’s so exciting and inspirational to see how they are developing. I’m very proud of you.

There were two excellent wins for Arthur, beating a player rated over 200 points higher, so well done! Plus there were good wins for Harry and Louis in their first games. Beatrice unfortunately had a strong opponent; but equally for her, it will be a good learning experience.

A big thank you to Arthur who is away on holiday with family, and to Harry who is on holiday in Cancun, for coming out of the pool in the middle of the day to play for us! Between the two of you, you scored 3 points so your dedication is very much appreciated. Enjoy the rest of your holiday!

The team remains in 6th place in Division 3 Group A but we now have a match point and a good level of game points. Hopefully, some of the team’s toughest matches are now in the past.

Well done everybody from both teams.

Nikki Forster 15/2/2024