Blindfold Chess Match: Levy Rozman vs. Anna Cramling

Introduction

• Levy Rozman plays a blindfolded chess match against Anna Cramling (ELO 2100).
• Anna's mom, Grandmaster Pia Cramling, makes the moves for Levy.

Opening Moves

• Levy opens with Knight F6, Anna responds with Bishop G5 (the Trompowsky Attack).
• Sequence progresses:
  • Levy: D5, E6, Knight E4
  • Anna: E3, D3

Early Game Strategy

• Levy wants to avoid unfamiliar positions; prefers positions with known tricks from the Trompowsky.
• Critical early moves: Knight C6, Pawn takes E4
• Anna moves Bishop to D3; Levy responds with C5.

Middle Game Developments

• Tension builds with Anna's Bishop G4 move, creating chaos on the board.
• Exchange of pieces: Knight takes C2, King D1, Knight takes A1, Bishop takes E5

Turning Points and Critical Decisions

• Levy notes tunnel vision; considers trading Queens to simplify but aims for a checkmate instead.
• Complicated sequence: Queen B5, Queen D7, Queen C4

Time Pressure and Mistakes

• Levy starts making mistakes under the impression he has only 9 seconds left; actually has more time than Anna.
• Tactical errors: Rook C1 (bad move), Knight A4 sacrifice complications.

Endgame

• Anna blunders her Rook; Levy finds renewed hope.
• Sequence leads to: Queen C2, Rook D8, Knight C7, tactical exchanges.

Conclusion and Draw

• Intense pawn endgame: King maneuvers, pawn promotions, and final stalemate threats.
• Draw agreed upon as both players realize the position is locked due to perpetual check possibilities.

Reflections

• Levy reflects on visualizing the entire endgame while blindfolded.
• Anna explains why the draw was logical due to her King's opposition.

Key Takeaways

• Blindfold chess requires excellent memory and visualization skills.
• Time management and psychological factors (perceived time pressure) can significantly impact gameplay.
• Chaos and tactical creativity can sometimes lead to opportunities even in challenging positions.