CAT of Kilkenny

Name given by Sam Loyd c.a. 1888 to a famous twin problems. The title comes from an old Irish song. (a) diagram (b) all pieces one column left Mate in 4 moves Solution: (a) 1. Sf4+! Kxf2 2. Sxh3+ Kxg3 (2…Ke2 3. c8=Q gxh1=Q 4. Qa6#) 3. Sf5+ Kxh3 4. Bg4# (b) 1. b8=S! Rxg1 (1…d5 2. Sc6 dxc4 3. Se4+ Kxe2 4. Sd4#) 2. Sxd7 f1=Q 3. S7c5 Rh1 4. Sb3#.

CENTRALIZE To develop pieces and pawns towards the centre where they can control the maximum number of squares.
CENTER The four squares d4, e4, d5 and e5 in the middle of the board. Strategically the most important squares of the board. In the opening, the player who controls the centre has the advantage. The control is generally regarded as an essential feature if a complete and sound development. Siegbert Tarrasch advocated that the early occupation of e4 and d4 with Pawns constitutes ‘the alpha and omega of all opening strategy’. Aron Nimzowitch pointed out that this control of the centre was an advantage only as long it could be maintained.