Daily chess puzzle: best of 2017

For the last few years I have, each day, posted a problem from one of a series of chess puzzle books. I have now chosen the next one to use, but before I start that series, I am going to introduce a bit of variety into my daily postings, by picking a pot pourri of chess highlights from 2017.

There is no structure to these selections: the common theme is that they are all positons or games that I have enjoyed, found interesting, or been amazed at during 2017.

I hope my readers find this series enjoyable: either being reminded of moves or games they enjoyed during the year, or by being introduced to interesting, challenging, or fun positions for the first time.

White to play: what would you play? what candidate moves would you consider?

So-Rapport, Tata Steel, 16/1/2017

Solution

Wesley played 19 f3, followed by 20 g4 and 21 Rh1, and won a fine game. But apparently 19 Rh1!! is even stronger. I would never, ever, consider such a move. But once seen, it makes sense. Chess is a limitless game.

Tomorrow’s puzzle is another move from the same game.

FEN

The game is on my ChessBase cloud database.

Comments

If any reader spots typos, faults, or (more positively) has comments, please add them. Such comments help the quality of the blog and are always appreciated. Thank you.