Kooistra levels the score again after a spectacular eighth World Championship game
Harlingen – Taeke Kooistra has won the eighth game of the Frisian draughts world title match, thereby bringing the score back to a dead heat. After a game full of surprises, complex variations and chances for both sides, the challenger came out on top in the endgame. With three games remaining, the score stands at 4–4.
The ceremonial opening move was made by Stephan Rekker, chairman of the Friese Rijwiel Elfstedentocht Foundation. Rekker is no stranger to the Frisian game of draughts; in his youth, he played the game in Winsum. In his opening address, he reflected on the fact that this cycle tour has been visiting the beautiful eleven Frisian towns since 1912. The annual Elfstedentocht cycle tour now attracts around 15,000 participants, making it one of the province’s largest sporting events. Both world title contenders, Marten Walinga and Taeke Kooistra, have also completed the tour on multiple occasions. With the eighth match game, the symbolic route of the World Championship match has now reached Bolsward.
Early on in the game, a never seen variation appeared on the board, immediately forcing both players to go to extremes. What followed was a fascinating tactical battle in which attack and defence constantly alternated. Threats had to be carefully neutralised on both sides, whilst in the analysis room too, a feverish search was underway for opportunities to uncover a decisive advantage somewhere. For a long time, none appeared to be forthcoming.
It was only in the endgame that Kooistra gradually managed to take control. He built up both a tempo advantage and a comfortable lead on the clock, thereby putting Walinga under increasing pressure. It was precisely this time pressure that ultimately proved the reigning world champion’s undoing. In an endgame with five pieces remaining on each side, there was not enough time to find the only draw variation. Kooistra capitalised fully and flawlessly steered the remaining endgame to victory.
This victory has brought the tension back in full force to the world title match. With the score level and only three games remaining, both players are still very much in the running for the world title. Everything points to the outcome only being decided on the final day of play, meaning fans can look forward to a thrilling conclusion to this remarkable contest.
Photo 1: Stephan Rekker opens the eighth game of the Frisian draughts world title match
Photo 2: Kooistra is playing on the left with the black pieces and Walinga on the right
