Double Attacks in the Endgame

Double Attacks in the Endgame, by, Mrs Jessica E Prescott (aka BoundingOwl)

 

Hello darlings!  Did you know that tactics are always possible, no matter what stage of the game?  Some people think endgames are easier, because there are fewer pieces on the board.  Some think they are harder because you have to know specific positions really well to know if it's a win or draw, and how to do it!  In either case, you can always keep your eye out for tricks!

Here are 6 puzzles where a double attack occurs in the endgame.  Good luck!

 

1.  Black to move.  Checkmate or win a bishop in 2 moves.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You do remember how to win with a king and rook, right? Surprised

 

 

2.  White to move and win the queen in 3!  Start with a rook sac that skewers the king to the queen.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.  White to move and win a bishop in 2 or 3.  First sac, then double attack!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.  White to move and win a rook in 2.  Do you see a pin?  Remember:  pinned pieces do not protect.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.  White to move and win the queen in 3!  Two forks in a row!  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.  Check then fork with a pawn!  Promote, then fork with the rook!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Results:

1 out of 6: termite

2 out of 6: log

3 out of 6: stalagtite

4 out of 6: poison dart frog

5 out of 6: dynamite

6 out of 6: Tibetan Mastiff (the most expensive and awesome looking dog in the world)  Would you pay $1.5million dollars for a dog?