Round 6 saw the B division commence another five game Swiss system tournament with the Hedgehog. The Hedgehog is an extremely resilient opening but it is also quite difficult to handle, whether you are playing against it or with it. Black’s plan in the Hedgehog is to shuffle his pieces usefully, preparing the breaks with b5 and d5 as well as generating pressure on the e4 and c4 pawns while ensuring that white cannot break through. White’s task is just as difficult, he must restrain the d5 and b5 breaks as well as countering the threats against his c4 and e4 pawns while trying to find some way to make progress. It is very easy for white to overpress and find himself worse. On the other hand, it is also very easy for black to run out of useful moves and begin to drift, which is not advisable. The key to playing either side of the Hedgehog is an understanding of piece manoeuvring. As ususal results for the A Division are updated here, and for the B division here. More fun and games next week — dont miss out. And feel free to participate in the B division tournament even if you havent done so to date.
1.c4 c5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.g3 b6 4.Bg2 Bb7 5.Nc3 e6 6.0-0 Be7 7.d4 cxd4 8.Qxd4 d6.
Hamilton Chess Club 
