Women’s World Ch Game #3

High Tension in Game 3

After yesterday’s loss, Ju Wenjun played ‘all in‘ in today’s game. A sharp King’s Indian soon appeared on the board (following a Lagno game from 2017) but then Ju Wenjun threw caution to the wind, sacrificing material for the attack. White quickly built up a superior position, full of promising tactical possibilities.

Then nerves began to tell. Both players started to play second best moves, and while Lagno’s position did not deteriorate, White continued to stay on top. Then the clock began to play a role as both players rushed to make time control.

By this time an ending had been reached, but with several passed pawns on the board! Ju Wenjun must still be better, but her margin for error has been greatly reduced if she intends to win today.

In the end, Ju Wenjun, despite Lagno’s help, could not find the winning moves. The game is now completely drawn. She has only herself to blame…she had a winning position at one point (or two) and about 15 minutes more time.

Probably they will play on a few more moves, but the opposite colour Bishops means that there are 0.000% chances of winning. The players agreed to a draw after 68 moves.

Tomorrow is the final game. Ju Wenjun will need to win with the Black pieces, a draw being sufficient for Lagno to take the World Champion title! Should be a real struggle!

 

Ju Wenjun – Lagno,K Game 3 21.11.2018 (game in progress)