Sidcup’s third team were back at the board against Gravesend 5 in the Tom Fuller Cup on Wednesday night. The evening started with the bad news that Peter Houching had had to withdraw at the last moment in unavoidable circumstances. The only alternative was to bring in a higher rated substitute, David Gilbert, on board two and concede a full penalty point to Gravesend. That point gave the away team some impetus, and Gravesend were more than holding their own on all four boards for most of the evening. But as time ticked away, Chris Cheeseman struck in a complicated position to force his opponent’s resignation, then captain Lee Brockwell agreed a draw in an equal position on board three. David Gilbert created two connected passed pawns in the centre which proved too powerful as they marched forward. And finally David Helps’ extra piece was good enough to seal overall victory on top board. Sidcup 3 Gravesend 5

David Helps (145) 1 - 0 John Flowers (115)
David Gilbert (130) 1 - 0 Alan Evans (110)
Lee Brockwell (99e) ½-½ Peter Belka (100)
Chris Cheeseman (95) 1 - 0 Bernard Lis (80)

Next up for the third team is an away trip to Beckenham 5 on Thursday, 17 January 2013.

Lee Brockwell