Press Report 10th Decembeer 2021

South Hams Chess Club’s “A” team travelled away to Newton Abbot for their Torbay Chess League fixture. Although heavily out rated, they came away triumphant 3-1 winners, much to the surprise of both teams. Winners for South Hams were David Archer on top board, James Schofield and Ben Wilkinson, while Phil McConnell lost his game against Joshua Blackmore. This win gives the “A” team two wins from two games with their next fixture against Torquay Boys’ Grammar School on the 6th January, while the “B” team travel away to Newton Abbot a week later 13th January 2022.

Nearly all club games continue to be played online and some major surprise results have made the Homan League very interesting indeed. Steve Levy suffered his second defeat against Chris Wilcox, being completely outplayed. So what was looking a formality for Steve, he now has become engulfed in a scrap for a top two finish before the first half of the season finishes at the Christmas break.

The player making ripples at the moment is Trevor Hurt beating and outplaying Phil McConnell, following this beating James Fowler. If he only had found his form a little earlier he could have been in the shake up for a challenge on one of the top slots. James, also not out of form, drew against Alan Davies. Alan followed this with a loss against Clifford Peach.

Tony Tatam lost his game against Ben Wilkinson. Ben now is the only player on a 100% record played 5 win 5, but trailing behind on games played. Tony also drew against Richard Thomas, while a few days earlier Richard lost to James Schofield. The player having a dip in form is Arthur Doble who lost both his games against David Archer and Steve Levy, after a strong start to the season.

Anyone wishing further information about the South Hams Chess Club, who meet when covid allows at the Regal Club, Kingsbridge at 7pm on Thursdays, please ring Phil McConnell 01803 834135 or Clifford Peach 01752 407757.