It has been an eventful period for Stonehaven Chess Club, marked by resilience, surprises, and a clear sense that the club is continuing its upward trajectory.
SNCL: A Breakthrough in Round 4
Our Scottish National Chess League campaign began with a tough run, losing our first three matches against strong opposition. The team, however, showed real resolve. In Round 4 we produced the performance we had been threatening for weeks, securing a well-earned victory and getting our season properly underway.
What stood out was not only the result but the manner in which it was achieved. The team played with purpose, composure, and a willingness to take calculated risks when the position demanded it. It was the response we needed—proof that the squad has the quality to compete and push higher up the table in the rounds ahead.
Club Championship: Two Results Nobody Saw Coming
Round 2 of the Club Championship delivered drama of its own, with two unexpected draws shaking up the standings:
- Lewis Matheson ½–½ Tate Randle – despite a rating gap, Tate defended resourcefully throughout and earned a deserved share of the points.
- David Watkins ½–½ David Bridges – another upset on paper, and another reminder that consistency, not just rating, decides club championships.
These results inject real intrigue into the competition. The top spots are far from settled, and every round now carries extra weight. Upsets are becoming a theme this season, and that is healthy for the depth and competitiveness of the club.
North-East League: Strong Early Engagement
The newly re-established North East League has quickly found its footing. Teams are engaged, match nights are lively, and early rounds have already generated close contests across the board. The league table is tightening, with only a few points separating the middle pack. The appetite for team chess in the region is clearly there, and we are well on track to build this into a long-term fixture of the local chess calendar.
A Club Growing in Confidence
Across all competitions, Stonehaven Chess Club is showing momentum. Membership is healthy, match participation is strong, and players at every level are taking on new challenges. The atmosphere on Wednesday nights reflects a club that is expanding its ambitions and strengthening its identity.
The coming weeks promise more competitive SNCL fixtures, decisive Club Championship pairings, and a rapidly developing NE League race. If recent results are anything to go by, the story of the season is still very much being written—and Stonehaven is firmly in the mix.