This was a Gambit Fantasy Tournament game set from this position. White: BigDoggProblem; Black: moonbus; notes by moonbus. Initial ratings within 50 points.

I did not fancy the more natural-looking e6, as this would critically weaken d6. Also, the Black KB has few prospects on the f8-a3 diagonal.

To prevent a White R from coming to c1 and harrying the backwards c6 pawn.

White now completes his development naturally and has no obvious weakness. Black's position, on the other hand, is cramped, ill-coordinated, and there is a critical hole at c5. Moreover, White threatens to break up the Black pawns with e6.

This is necessary to stabilize the Q-side, otherwise White plays a5 and the b4-pawn is weak.

Trying to keep the White QN off of c5; the more natural … e6 would allow the White KN to invade via e4 and then f6 or d6.

! This is most uncomfortable for Black; White has got much the better position out of the opening.

Of course, the e6-pawn is doomed, but Black must try to make White yield some ground in exchange for it.

If instead Rxe6, then … Rf6 holding the position. The N move seizing c5 is much stronger. White can pick up the e6 pawn at his leisure.

Again, much stronger than taking the e6-pawn immediately.