Press Report 23rd April 2021

With the season drawing to an end and warmer weather approaching, the South Hams Chess Club, after a busy and hectic season, games are running out fast.

Over the past week there has been has been no major surprises but Phil McConnell has pretty much secured his place in the club’s Homan Leagues Championships play offs after beating Quentin Thwaites. After a great run of wins he could spring a few surprises in the four player play off and becoming club Champion is not beyond him. No doubt standing in his way is Steve Levy, present Champion and odds on favourite; he beat David Archer to chalk up his 22nd win from 22 games played. With one place still yet to be filled, James Schofield is also amongst the runners, having already qualified he beat James Fowler. In other games played Steve Levy beat Chris Willcox, Tony Tatam beat Trevor Hurt, Clifford Peach and James Fowler drew, while David Archer beat Quentin Thwaites. This followed a very lively on and off the board semi-final. The previous week in the club’s Cookworthy Cup knockout tournament, the game had everything taking club members back to the Fischer days. Who said chess is boring? It wasn’t until a few days later that the result finally stood and David Archer now plays Tony Tatam in what should be an exciting 2 game final. It’s worth noting that David is the only player to have beaten Steve this year.

With the club having to adapt to online chess this season, it’s great. Competitions have reached the final stages with just a handful of games left to play. Anyone wishing further information or wanting games please check out www.southhamschessclub.com.