Originally posted by Eric LeFavour
I was hoping I could get some suggestions on where I lost this game. My opponent is a friend and suggested at white move 43, I should have traded pawns with him. I was white. He has good advice, I was just hoping for some more feedback. I seem to be struggling when I get a good advantage. I can't seem to close the deal. Any help would be apprecia ...[text shortened]...
Thank you "Oh grand wizards of chess"!
humbly..........
Eric
Game 6364695
3. e4 was better – 3. a3 does nothing for your development.
4. Any development move is much better Bf4, Nf3, e4, etc.
6. Na4 or Ne4 look better than moving your Knight back to its starting square.
8. f4? Not another pawn move. If you want to play a pawn move, it at least should help with development such as 8. e3.
Up to the 14th move, Black has missed chances and allowed White to equalize the game. Later on in the game, White had a huge advantage and allowed Black back in the game.
Jumping ahead to White’s 43rd move. You should have captured the pawn. 43. Rf3 is a horrible move, which places your Rook on an inactive square.