Bexhill 1 entertained East Grinstead on April 7th.
This was a particularly important match as East Grinstead were lying 2nd in the league with Bexhill 1 just behind in third.
East Grinstead won Division 3 when the leagues were last played, so would represent a strong challenge.
First to finish was Steve Merchant, who played well to go 2 pawns up and eventually forced a resignation.
Janis on board 3 played a strong attacking game, sacrificing 2 pieces to try to get the win, and despite
mounting a strong attack had to settle for a draw.
Steve Blewitt was next to finish. He and his opponent found themselves with 5 pawns each with Steve having a very active Knight to his opponents Bishop. Steve played the end game to perfection and forced a resignation from the East Grinstead number 2.
Last to finish was Andrew on board 1. Andrew capitalised on an error by his opponent which saw Andrew
go up by a Bishop to 2 pawns. Despite the East Grinstead number 1 having a lead in development Andrew calmly nullified all efforts from his opponent and eventually with Andrew in an overwhelming position his opponent resigned.
This means that with 2 matches remaining, Bexhill 1 are in second place in the league.
The next match on 14th April at home to Horsham will be another stiff challenge as they currently lie in 4th place just a couple of points behind us.