World Chess Championship Game 6: Anand draws, maintains a point lead

Vishy Anand maintained his one point lead over Bulgarian Topalov on Saturday. In a well contested game, Topalov impressed with his stubborn play not withdrawing failed tactics of previous games. Anand, who seemed to be coming to his own after increased preparation and focus, looks unlikely to drop the vital one-point lead in the coming six games. However, it would be underestimating Topalov to rule him out just now.

It is all about black and white!

Playing with white pieces, Anand was expected to cash on the good run that white pieces had generated so far. A win in game six and a consequent two point lead would have sealed the fate of this World Championship. However, Anand will have the white pieces again in the seventh game today. This will hence be a critical game and will have a direct influence on the larger result.

Topalov will have to continue the impressive middle game he displayed in the sixth game to cause Anand any possible trouble. This draw in the sixth game was one of the better performances put by him, after his win in the first game. Topalov must draw the next game as well to negate Anand’s advantage with the white pieces. He can then go on the offensive with 5 games to play.

Anand is in the groove now with increased preparation and the advantage of white pieces.

Anand will try to secure a win on Monday to gain a two point lead and then sit back and let his dynamic defense skills complete the job for him.