Standard Chess #23: IM Bartholomew vs. hek (Giuoco Pianissimo)

A relaxed Giuoco Pianissimo where Black chooses to develop the bishop to g4 - something that is usually avoided in this line. I achieve the d3-d4 advance, but despite a powerful pawn center, Black could have struck back on move 22 with 22...d5!. Instead, he opted for a passive move (22...Nd8?) and his position rapidly deteriorated.

[@TheStimuli]

Ahhhh, 4. Ng5!!! I was holding my breath to see it. Maybe next time :-)

[@robertsweeney1162]

I love these longer Games John. Very instructive. Thanks!

[@mattforchi]

Hey man, love how instructive your videos are! Thanks for the great content!

[@mokudan]

Really enjoyed this game. You played some moves which really made me think, and your analysis at the end about your opponent's time usage was also interesting. (I play only correspondence chess, which has time issues of its own, but still...)

[@MetroWord]

As someone who plays the Italian Game I loved this game. Nice share.

[@JohnBartholomewChess]

Glad you enjoyed it, MetroWord!

[@md65000]

Shucks, for a second there I was hoping to see what an IM can do with the fried liver attack :)

[@JohnBartholomewChess]

Ha :) If I was more confident in my 4.Ng5 theory I would have given it a go.

[@drazmestar858]

Which recording system do you use, if you don't mind me asking?

[@JohnBartholomewChess]

I use XSplit.

[@pplm0853]

Hi John,
Doesn't 26. Qd2, ... 27.Rec1 trap black's queen? Is there an intermezzo on move 26 that black can play to parry the treat?

[@pplm0853]

Oh, just saw it. Rxe4

[@thecityofjoy]

Can play B--e3 also after queen sack on h3

[@johnstevenson9956]

I'd always heard the theory that too many blitz games could ruin your standard games. Perhaps leading to some bad habits?

[@malegupta8404]

game was aweeosme and very instructive dear john sir but in the end it is very hard to breakthrough you are playing great in this game i respect you and salute you for your hard work sir

[@knottreel]

Just what I needed. Thanks!