PROMOTION SECURED AFTER DERBY TRIUMPH

Shrewsbury B have secured promotion from division three of Shropshire Chess League and given themselves a real shot at the title thanks to a 3-1 win away to local rivals Darwinian Knights C.

Captain Richard Vernon, David Edwards and Ian Davies secured the victories to ensure Shrewsbury – needing a point to guarantee a top two finish – moved level on points with long-time leaders Newport B heading into the final round of fixtures.

Nick Holmes lost to Shane Sweeney on top board, but it was no more than a consolation for the hosts, who must now settle for a mid-table finish.

Shrewsbury now lead the table by virtue of having 25 game points to Newport’s 24.5 – meaning matching Newport’s result in the final round of fixtures would secure the division title

Shrewsbury made two changes to the side that beat Newport Junior B last time out, with Holmes and Davies coming in on the top two boards to replace Ivor Salter and Fred Bennett.

Captain Vernon put his side ahead with victory over junior Zac Herd on bottom board, and Edwards doubled the lead by beating Paula Sharp with the white pieces on board three to make sure of at least a drawn match and promotion.

Holmes’ defeat put Darwinian back in the match, but Davies beat Martin Ayres on board two to secure victory.

All three of the division’s fixtures will be played in Tuesday next week (April 22). Newport B will host Darwinian Knights C while Shrewsbury B travel to Darwinian Knights Junior.

Full scores (Shrewsbury colours in brackets):

Darwinian Knights C 1-3 Shrewsbury B

1. Shane Sweeney 1-0 Nick Holmes (w)

2. Martin Ayres 0-1 Ian Davies (b)

3. Paula Sharp 0-1 David Edwards (w)

4. Zac Herd 0-1 Richard Vernon (b)