Board 1, James O'Fee defended against Paul McNaughton. James
established a strong position but Paul fought back to regain balance. A
tough battle ensued with both players threatening to claim the
initiative; nip and tuck all the way until the end-game promised a
stale position. Exhausted, both players grateful agreed a draw.<br>
<br>
Philip Todd was on sparkling form against Calum Leitch on board 2.
Philip took the game to Calum who had to keep his wits about not to
lose initiative. As the end-game approached, Calum relaxed and Philip
pounced to add a Knight capture to his pawn advantage; the game looked
won. But Calum came back fighting and with a series of checks drained
away Philips time until the pressure caught Philip in an ugly pawn fork
costing him his Queen; Calum stealing the game at the last moment.<br>
<br>
Martin Rogers was in great form too, defending against Stewart
McConaghy on board 3. Stewart came under immediate pressure as Martin
marshaled his forces to exert control. When it came, the end was swift,
Martin claiming a strong win.<br>
<br>
Board 4, David Symmington faced the indomitable Bill McKitterick, not
best known for giving youngsters their head. David tried all the tricks
he could to gain advantage but Bill negated all threats. Eventually
both agreed at draw.<br>
<br>
Final board featured last minute replacements Ken Browne defending
against Bombardier's Ken Haddock. Ken Browne built up his defences
calmly almost waiting for the dreadful moment when Ken Haddock gave up
a piece. The material disadvantage was too great and Ken Browne
exploited Ken Haddock's weak position leaving his ears singing.<br>
<br>
Overall a 3-2 win for the Barracudas; a great result for the Bangor
team even better considering the performance on top boards that nearly
demolished the Bombardier team. The Barracudas recent performances,
both home and away, suggest they may have underestimated their
potential; next week against RVH Hawks will be a telling test of their
real strength.