2008-10-13

Problem diagram.
White plays.

Source:
Blueprint 361 , Miyamoto Naoki 9p
Go World #2, Jul-Aug 1977, pp. 54-57

Solution follows    (or click here to download SGF)






























Correct.
Although Black's framework in the upper right looks scary, the key point is at the bottom where a weak White group lies between 2 weak Black groups. White 1 defends and threatens to cut off the Black group's base. And to add insult to injury, White 3 defends and threatens to push through to cut off the 5 Black stones.

The sequence from Black 4 to White 13 is one continuation. White's light response gives flexibility for either reducing Black's upper framework or attacking the lower right Black group. Meanwhile, Black's 2 stones in the lower left have become weaker.


Unimaginative.
White 1 and 3 are too slow. With 2 and 4, Black has reinforced all his weak groups. If White tries to reinforce his own weak group with 5, Black caps with 6. With a weak White group and the threat of Black's upper moyo, Black takes command of the game.


Not urgent.
Reducing the upper framework with White 1 seems urgent. White can also play lightly with 3. But Black calmly protects one of his weak groups with 4. With 2 weak White groups, the issue is whether White can save both. White has no time to think about moves like A.


Email the Problem Of The Week editor at potw@usgo.org

Hits: 764