In an extensive and thorough session Michael introduced us to styles of opening; differentiating between openings which required deep thoeretical understanding and those where knowledge of games is more useful. Central to building a personal opening repertoire is an appreciation of the implications of move order on particular openings and how this places demands on your own theoretical knowledge. Michael elaborated on how the choices you make early on allow you to control the development of the game by playing on your personal strengths while exploiting your opponents weaknesses.

Second and Third parts of this detailed session focused on two particular lines from the Nimzo-Indian. Using examples from Master games Michael emphasised the key elements in each demonstrating how control could be exercised without placing too many demands on theory. As each opening made the transition to the middle-game, the characteristic arrangement of pieces became clear exposing the opportunities for exploiting small advantages to dominate the game.

Frequently in the example games, opportunites arose from the pawn arrangements to be addressed by later speakers; isolated pawns, doubled-pawns and pawn levers. A key aspect of Michaels presentation was the focus on positional development rather than tactical devices and manoevering thereby ensuring the middle-game was reached with clear tactical objectives in-hand and a firm foundation set for a winning end-game.

Later this month, Michael will be competing in the British Championship as lead nominee for the Ulster Union.