by Aviv Friedman

Ponomariov - Vallejo:

Ponomariov - Vallejo:   Looks like even the debacle against Ivanchuk a few days ago didn't change Paco's loyalty to the Paulsen Sicilian. Today, Ponomariov put it to a new test, playing the 5.Nc3 line. It is not clear if Pono wasn't prepared for that or had his own ideas, but as early as move 10 he deviated from the previous moves with 10.Bd2. Well, it turned out pretty well! His idea was to play a quiet move that lures the Ne7 to g6, after which a4 gains in strength. I can't say I was crazy about 13…b3?! Why not 13…Bb7, threatening to take on d5 first? When the N moves b4 isn't under attack anymore. Also, I thought that 16…Bc7 was more prudent, not trading B and keeping an eye on a5, then holding on the vulnerable "b" pawn. Instead, white calmly corralled the poor "b" pawn and won it. With nothing to show for the pawn, Vallejo drifted. Perhaps somewhat demoralized he played somewhat quickly. The pseudo-aggressive 21…f5?! simply brought him a bad structure and some inevitable trades (as did 25…c5?!) On move 29, early but not prematurely, he stopped the clock and resigned.

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