2008 Doeberl Cup - Round 4

Small controversy about the anti-draw rule, selected games and videos

Temperature at the O2C Doeberl Cup is increasing as the competition goes on. Introduction of the anti-draw rules was wonderful move by the organizers and the percentage of decided games remains high even at the stage when titled players are paired against eachother. There was some controversy regarding the rule and in the game GM Antic - IM Kizov, see the first Ian Rogers' video for clarification.

Local fans are certainly pleased after Darryl Johansen defeated the 2nd seeded Belgian Vadim Malakhatko in the 4th round. Australian Grandmaster is sitting alone on the top of the crosstable with perfect score. Five Grandmasters are closely following from the half point distance after all of them achieved wins in the 4th round.

Round 4 standings:
1. GM Darryl K Johansen (AUS 2475) 4.0
2-5. GM Zhong Zhang (SIN 2617), GM Gawain Jones (ENG 2562), GM S. Ganguly (IND 2579), GM Dejan Antic (SRB 2480) and GM Varuzhan Akobian (USA 2599) 3.5 etc

Top round 5 pairings:
2599 GM Varuzhan Akobian (3.5) - GM Darryl K Johansen (4.0) 2475
2562 GM Gawain Jones (3.5) - GM Zhong Zhang (3.5) 2617
2579 GM S. Ganguly (3.5) - GM Dejan Antic (3.5) 2480
2600 Vadim GM Malakhatko (3.0) - IM Hafizulhelmi Mas (3.0) 2382

Amiel Rosario reports that unfortunately two Grandmasters had to withdraw from the event for different reasons. You can also follow live updates on his blog before and after each of the rounds.

GM Ian Rogers, who is holding a record of 12 first places at the Doeberl Cup, is impressing the audience with analysis during and after the live games. Here are two videos, more can be found on the official website.