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This position is dripping with QF (quiz factor). Over the board, I probably would play too quickly, and go with the obvious C = Cross (bar/24* 10/5). It hits; it puts a spare on the 5pt; it leaves no blots. What is not to like? On reflection, I should also note that it leaves a very stripped outside position. When Blue comes in on the 1pt, and subsequently rolls one of the root numbers like 3, 5, and 7 that block his straggler, he better hope he can play safely inside with his spares. Otherwise, one of his outside points will need to be broken, and that move may come with blots attached. Consider the alternative: entering on the 20pt. The only reasonable ace then becomes 6/5. Blue may get hit after this play, but he will have plenty of return shots, both inside and out. And whether or not White hits, look at the problems White will have trying to unstack his midpoint. The only place for those checkers to go is covered from the 20pt. When Blue is missed, he will be in the driver’s seat. He may have options to escape, attack, or, when he makes the 10pt, to build a prime . Mike | ||||||||||||
