Exeter Chess Club:

For:	Fri. 25 ^th Feb. 2000

Cornish chess is certainly on a high this season, with the county team providing a stiff challenge for all their opponents in the WECU Championships. After wins against Hants and Wilts, they must fancy their chances in their last match, against Somerset at Exminster on 11 ^th March.

The domestic activity is reflecting this bullish mood, with an increased entry in the annual CCA Championship Congress, held recently at Truro College. The Championship itself, the Emigrant Cup, was won by Andrew Greet, (St. Austell), although David Saqui had it within his grasp - he only had to win his last round game against Malcolm Pridmore to win the title on tie break, but it was not to be. The Falmouth Cup, (U-125) was won in super fashion by Christopher Reeves.

Cornwall runs 2 leagues. Div I is currently headed by Truro A (19 pts from 11 matches) ahead of Camborne A (15 pts from 11) while perhaps Penwith A (14 from 9) pose the greater threat.

Penwith B lead Div II with 16 pts from 10 matches, with Camborne B in 2 ^nd place with 14 pts and two matches in hand.

The East Devon Congress starts next weekend. Late entries or enquiries to Alan Maynard on 01363-773313

White's sharpest continuation in last week's position was to sacrifice his rook by Rxf7, allowing the Queen to check decisively on e6.

This week's position is a traditional, though tricky, 2-mover.