Press Report 26th November 2021

South Hams Chess Club had their second Torbay League match in as many weeks after a two year absence from any over the board activity due to Covid.

This time South Hams “B” entertained Torquay Boys Grammar School, always a threat of the unknown. The Grammar School got off to a flying start when their board two beat Tony Tatam in quick time, with Tony getting in a right muddle in the opening with his opponent moving at rapid speed and causing fluster in Tony. This is something he is pretty good at doing himself, so it now needed steady play from (match Captain) Trevor Hurt to pull things back level. Then Arthur Doble also having a struggle in the end game, eventually won putting the South Hams 2 - 1 up. Everything then hinged on Roy Greenhalgh on top board, but he also looked in deep trouble, being two pawns down in the end game. However, after a loose move from his Grammar School opponent, Roy somehow found a way in forcing a draw giving the South Hams victory 2 ½ - 1 ½. It was a relieved South Hams’ team at the end of the evening.

In other games David Archer beat Phil McConnell, even though Phil beat Steve Levy a few days earlier, ending his long unbeaten run. These two now hold 2nd and 3rd spots in the Homan League. Also, this game was played over the board at the Regal Club; James Fowler beat Ken Ashby, Trevor Hurt beat Alan Davis, a good result for Trevor, and Steve Levy got back to winning ways beating Richard Thomas. In addition playing out a friendly was Clifford Peach and Eugene Bellard. This game also played over the board at the Regal.

Anyone wanting further information about the chess club, which meets at the Regal Club, Kingsbridge please check out their website at www.southhamschessclub.com or ring Phil McConnell on 01803 834135 or Clifford Peach 01752 407757.