Hastings fielded a very strong side on their top boards and the match depends on the outcome of the board 1 clash. John Cannon has Kt & 4 pawns against Kt & 5 pawns in a close endgame – there being no passed pawns. Initial analysis suggests a draw. Elsewhere, Melusi was the hero with an inspired Rook for Bishop and 2 Pawns sacrifice to create a winning endgame.
Full result: Horsham White on odd boards --
1 Jerry Anstead (176) Adj v John Cannon (153)
2 Ollie Willson (161) draw v Mick Harris (151)
3 Stephen Blewitt (161) 1 – 0 v Nick Warren (141)
4 Derek Cosens (130) draw v Richard Moorhouse (138)
5 Gary Willson (111) 0 – 1 v Melusi Nkomo (131)
Mick Harris
3rd Team Capt
UPDATE: Board one was adjudicated a win for Jerry Anstead, so Horsham lost 3-2.