An Easy Solution to the Stafford Gambit | Climbing the Rating Ladder vs. 1821

In this continuation of the "Climbing the Rating Ladder" series I take on players of various ratings levels while pointing out typical mistakes and spots for improvement along the way (possibly my own!? :)). Here I commentate a 10+0 game against a player rated 1821 on Chess.com. The Stafford Gambit (1.e4 e5 2.Nf3 Nf6 3.Nxe5 Nc6) was popularized by IM Eric Rosen, and you can expect to run into it frequently online if you're a 1.e4 player. Although 4.Nxc6 is the engine-approved refutation, I propose you meet this tricky gambit line with 4.d4. This simple move, defending the knight on e5, promises White a good game without having to fight in murky, heavily analyzed tactical territory that the Stafford player loves. Moreover, our would-be gambiteer opponents are likely to have to defend and avoid traps themselves!

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