Matt Cornelisen - Chess

I had some time for extra chess today. I completed a Puzzle Rush and 5 rated puzzles, as watched some training videos. Additionally, I was able to play 2 games - 1 as Black and 1 as White. The first game, as White, was a disaster. No way to get around that evaluation. The second game, as Black, went much better. I felt more focused and got things back on track. Analysis for both games tomorrow.

Analysis of yesterday's game as Black. I used Stockfish and Chess.com. (Alternate lines are from Stockfish.) The game was 10 minutes per side. I need to play slightly longer games in order to take my time as I work to improve. Blasting through a bunch of short games hasn't helped me much to date, so I need to focus. 1. e4 e6 The French defense. Generally, as Black, I play 1...e6 and see what happens. I tried for a period of time trying to play 1...g6, but never had much success. 2. Nf3 d5 3. exd5 exd5 4. c4?! Inaccuracy. Best move was d4. (4. d4 Nf6 5. Bd3 Bd6 6. O-O O-O 7. Re1 Bg4 8. c3 Nbd7) 4... dxc4? Mistake. Best move was d4. My opening knowledge of the French defense (or any other) is minimal and so I'm lacking any book knowledge already. I liked the look of giving my opponent the isolated d pawn and thought I could try to play against it. (4... d4 5. Bd3 Nf6 6. O-O Be7 7. Re1 O-O 8. Bc2 d3 9. Bxd3) 5. Bxc4 Qe7+ With zero development, I go for the chec...

I found the time to do some puzzles and play a game. I struggled with the puzzles, completing only 17 during my first Puzzle Rush, with a max rating of 1009. My game went better, I played good chess and capitalized on a tactical opportunity to win a game with the French . Analysis to come tomorrow. In the meantime, I'm off to practice more puzzles. This weekend, I'll sit down to some focused tactical study.

I did much better at today's puzzles.  5/5 with good times. 10 right in a row now .