The Complete Chess Course From Beginning To Winning Chess! (2016)

Book Seven

How to Play the e-pawn Openings

Falkbeer Counter Gambit

Counter gambits must be viewed with skepticism. It is generally doubtful that Black can snatch the initiative at an early stage. In this opening, for example, Black’s policy of temporarily - and in some cases permanently - sacrificing a pawn, does not seem to be justified.

Falkbeer Counter Gambit

White - Black

1.e4 e5 2.f4 d5 3.exd5 e4 (D)

Position after 3…e4

This is the position Black aims for with his key second move. Black hopes to use his e-pawn as a stumbling block to White’s development. Hence White’s reply.

4.d3 Nf6

After 4…exd3 5.Qxd3 Nf6 6.Nc3 Bc5 7.Bd2 0-0 8.0-0-0, Black has no compensation for the lost pawn.

5.Qe2!

The pin on the e-pawn is very effective.

If instead 5.Nd2 Black gets a good game with 5…exd3 6.Bxd3 Nxd5 etc.

5…Qxd5 6.Nc3 Bb4 7.Bd2 Bxc3 8.Bxc3 Bg4 9.dxe4! Qxe4 10.Qxe4+ Nxe4 11.Bxg7 Rg8 12.Be5 Nc6 13.Bd3

Black has no compensation for the pawn minus. (D)

Position after 13.Bd3

White’s extra pawn gives him the advantage.