#12 Same Direction Cannon Double Headed Snake Pawn Formation vs Double Ranked Chariot - Red R2+4, Black R9=4 variation.

#12 Same Direction Cannon Double Headed Snake Pawn Formation vs Double Ranked Chariot - Red R2+4, Black R9=4 variation.

Outcome: Advantage to Black

  1. C2=5  C8=5    2. H2+3  H8+7
  3. R1=2  R9+1    4. R2+4  …………

I have seen many Xiangqi beginners like to play R2+4 in this situation, however this is not the smart move for Red.As discussed, the most effective move for Red would be P3+1.
In this point, how can Black gain the advantage?



  4. …………  R9=4    5. H8+7  H2+3

Correct move. Also a tempt for Red to play R2=7.

At this point, there are two main variations for Red.
a) R2=7
b) P7+1

a) R2=7

 6. R2=7  P3+1

Key move.

  7. R7+1  H3+4    8. P3+1  …………

To prevent Black play H4+6 in next move.


  8. …………  E3+1

Key move.

  9. R7+1  R1=3

Excellent move. Black to force Red exchange his chariot.

 10. R7+3  E1-3

Current board status analysis:
1) Black's main pieces are well developed, the chariot is ready for the battle.
2) Red can play C2=3 in next move to threaten Red left's horse.

Outcome:
Advantage to Black



b) P7+1

 6. P7+1  R1+1

Black just follows the 6 steps for double ranked chariots formation.
The difference is Red played R2+4 instead of P3+1.

  7. C8=9  C2+4

Key move! In the surface, Black is plan to play C2=7 in next move.

  8. R2=3  …………

Red uses his chariot to protect 3rd pawn, in the same-time threatening to capture Black's 7th pawn.

  8. …………  R4+5    9. R3+2  R4=3
 10. R3+1  R3+1   11. R9=8  C2=3

Key move! Red will lose his left elephant.

Current board status analysis:
1) Black's main pieces are gather at Red's left flank for attack.


Outcome: 
Advantage to Black