Discovery - Opening Trap

DISCOVERY


PETROFF DEFENSE


1.e4 e5
2.Nf3 Nf6
3.Nxe5 Nxe4
4.Qe2 Nf6??

WHITE TO MOVE

Scenario : Black has walked into a crushing discovery. White gains Black's Queen with 5. Nc6+, when White's c6-Knight, though in the discovered check unleashed by White's Queen. Nor can Black save his Queen by interposing it at e7, for, while blocking the check, Black's Queen is still imposed on by White's c6-Knight.

Interpretation: The second player can't play symmetrical chess forever. Sooner or later, the first player will introduce a move that cannot be duplicated, either a check or forcing capture or threat. So it is unwise to concoct one's plans on a copycat strategy. Once Black commits the error of capturing White's e4-pawn on the third move, he has to answer 4. Qe2 ironically by 4....Qe7, prolonging the mimicking course for one move longer. After 5.Qxe4 d6, Black regains his piece but still comes away with an inferior position. At least, however, he doesn't lose his Queen. Best for Black after 3. Nxe5 is not to take on e4 immediately, but first to drive back White's e5-Knight with 3...d6. After the Knight retreats, it is then perfectly safe for Black to take White's e-pawn. Don't copy your opponent's moves unless at that time it's best for you. Symmetry is mainly for the "Tiger! Tiger! burning bright / In the forest of the night" - William Blake.

(source: Chess Openings: Traps and Zaps by Bruce Pandolfin)