Ian takes the crown by winning a thrilling rapidplay play off against John Duggan!
Unfortunately Michael had to default his last 2 games due to health issues, which took him out of the running.John had to win his final game against yours truly last night to force a playoff against Ian and have a chance at regaining his title.
Unfortunately for Ian, I played an absolutely shocking game and John took full advantage.
Ian and John decided to play the deciding rapidplay games immediately after and played 2 very complex games. Ian managed to win his game with white and draw his game with black, taking the title from John 1½-½.
Final standings:
- Ian Snape, John Duggan 5½
- Michael Prizant 4
- Nick Briggs and Richard Selway 3½
- Andrew Ponting and yours truly 2½
- Graeme Plato 1