U.S.

Champs.

2007

IM Pruess - WFM Zenyuk

White has gained the upperhand by the time he played 26. Nd4. This move came at the heels of a checking maneuver by White on d7, trying to force the Black king into the corner for a possible queen sac on d8 for the mate. No cigar. In light of this, one would expect Black to consider a loophole at a7. However, WFM Zenyuk went for 26... Qe2? What? Am I missing something here? Isn't that ... ? I think IM Pruess went for it like a tiger for a wounded gazelle! WFM Zenyuk resigned on the next move. Now, how come my much lesser-rated opponents never get into such gift-giving? I guess better players have better luck.