Our SNCL campaign hit a rough patch this weekend, as we suffered back-to-back defeats—first a tough 5–0 loss to Queen’s Park in Round 7, followed by a 3–2 defeat to Forth Valley C in Round 8. Not the results we’d hoped for, but as always, there were valuable lessons and a few bright sparks along the way.
Personally, I was left frustrated after both rounds. In each game, I had built up a strong advantage—positions I would take any day of the week—only to let things slip away with late blunders. It’s a painful reminder of how unforgiving chess can be, but also how much I still have to learn. I’ve taken some ironic comfort in flipping Emanuel Lasker’s famous advice:
“If you see a good move, find a better one.”
Well, in my case, I saw a great move… and found something worse!
That said, it’s still my first full season playing over-the-board chess competitively, and weekends like this are all part of the journey. There’s no substitute for experience.
The rest of the team showed real fight. Keith Emery scored a fine win in Round 8, navigating a tricky endgame with confidence and precision. His experience really shone through and stood as a highlight of the day. Alan also pulled off a bit of an escape act—his position looked lost at one point, but he kept his cool and managed to turn the game around for a full point.
Special mention must go to Robbie’s friend Alex, who stepped up at the eleventh hour to complete our team. The night before, we only had four players available, but Alex agreed to come along—despite never having played competitive chess before. After a crash course in notation on the drive to Dunfermline, he sat down and played two solid, convincing games. He didn’t manage to find a win, but he enjoyed the experience and definitely didn’t look out of place.
As for Robbie, it wasn’t his weekend either, with two tough losses. But we know what he’s capable of and we’ll bounce back together.
We’ll regroup now and refocus for the final round next month. Before that, we’ve got an away match against St Andrews C this Thursday, where we’ll aim to get back on track and finish our season strong.
Thanks to everyone who played, travelled, and supported us—especially those who stepped in on short notice. Tough weekends are part of the game, but the way we respond to them is what defines us.
Onward to the next challenge. Let’s come out fighting. 💪♟️
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