Sicilian Scheveningen Part X (Classical Variation)

18 Qf2



The Queen and e3 bishop take aim at b6, plus,
her ladyship and the rook assume double
control of the f-file. If White should open
up this line via an unchallenged f4-f5,
the duo's power will be felt on f7.

18 a5
18 Kg1
18 Qd1
18 Qe2
18 Rad1
18 Rae1
18 Rf2
18 Rf3

18 ... Bf8



Now the e8 rook gets a better view of the e-file.
The bishop can also be used to defend against
White's kingside threats (... g6 followed
by ... Bg6).

18 ... Bc8
18 ... Kh8
18 ... Nb4
18 ... Nc5
18 ... Rbc8
18 ... Rbd8
18 ... Rec8
18 ... Rf8

19 Rad1



Rooks love half open files, in addition to
open ones!

19 f5
19 Kg1
19 Qg3
19 Qh4
19 Rab1
19 Rac1
19 Rae1

19 ... Nb4



(i) Gives the b7 bishop a clearer view of the
a8-h1 diagonal.

(ii) Keeps an eye on c2.

(iii) Aids a ... d5 break. The offensive and
defensive potential of Black's "humble"
center will shortly be unleashed!

19 ... g6
19 ... Be7
19 ... Kh8
19 ... Nc5
19 ... Ne7
19 ... Ra8
19 ... Rbc8
19 ... Rbd8