Middle game tactics: Mere control over d5 square will not ensure success
In our series of articles on middle game strategy, we have been discussing about the isolated queen pawn and the importance of the two central squares – d4 and d5 – to have effective control over the game.
The d5 square which a black pawn usually occupies in an isolated queen pawn structure in some of the openings and the square before the d5 square, the d4 square, if effectively controlled, can provide immense opportunities for either of the pieces to gain a hold on the game and dictate the terms. It is not the prerogative of the black pieces to have advantage of controlling the important d4 and d5 squares. The same principle applies to white pieces as well, but the key or very important point, is that the central squares of d4 and d5 should be used effectively. Not only one should have effective control over the pieces, but at the same time, take care to develop the other pieces such that they revolve around the important d4 and d5 squares, so that a firm grip on the game can be had. If, as a novice or a skilled chess player, you were to presume that mere control or occupation of the central squares of d4 and d5 would be a passport to success, then you need to have a rethink again. Mere possession or control over the central squares will not ensure success, but, to the contrary, it might be a hindrance to your prospects.
This point is explained in the following game, played between two grandmasters, where control over the d5 square by black without any development of other squares had ultimately led to his loss of the game.
A cursory look at the position indicates that the vital d5 square is occupied by black’s Knight and with the support from the knight at f6, black has firm control over the d5 square. On the other hand, white’s isolated queen pawn is located at d4. Using the d4 square effectively, white has posted its knight at c5.
The game continued as follows :
18. Ne5 …… White now uses the d4 pawn to support its other knight
18. …. Qb6
19. Qf3 Rf8
20. g4 Qd8
21. g5 Ne8 Black is clearly giving back the control it had on d5
square, and steadily falling in to the hands of White
22. h4 g6
The position after 22 moves is given hereunder:
White continues to exert pressure and develop the pieces effectively, exploiting the inability of black to effectively deploy the pieces and use the d5 square. You may also recall that the square in front of the d5 square has unique properties. White effectively uses this point to his advantage as his pawn at d4 is providing able support to the two knights at c5 and e5.
The game continued as follows:
23. g6 h6
24. Nf7 Rxf7
25. gxf7 Kxf7+
26. Nxe6 Bxe6
27. Rxe6 Kxe6
28. Qe4+ Kf7
29. Bxd5+ 1-0
Black’s inability to exploit the control of the d5 square to his advantage by not developing his other pieces and white’s advantage of occupying the d4 square is better explained in this game. The isolated queen pawn as well as control of the vital squares d4 and d5 in the middle game is very important to have an upper hand over the opponent.