Questions, Analysis and whatever are appreciated

Sicillian Defense (Overview)

I used to like playing the Sicillian, until Robert Donald introduced me to the Morra Gambit. Now I don't play it anymore, except as a suprise thing for beginners. It is sharp, but Black will be hanging on for his dear life if the other person plays either the Morra or the Wing Gambit correctly.

Sicillian Defense - Morra Gambit

1. e4 c5
2. d4!? cxd4
3. c3 dxc3
4. Nxc3

For White : I think this is the best way to refute the Sicillian Defense. This defense leaves black with no options to speak of! White is two and a half tempi up, while black's options are severely limited. Black has a pawn...and thats it :-P. For a good example of the Morra Gambit Deferred, look up my game versus Justin Powell.

For Black : I used to play the Sicillian until Robert smashed me with this one! So I've adopted it, and never went back to the Sicillian. The only time I've ever beat the Morra is when I fianchettoed my king bishop and held out until endgame. This is the best way to meet it, if you still want to play the Sicillian. Moron.

Sicillian Defense - Morphy Gambit

1. e4 c5
2. d4 cxd4
3. Nf3 Nc6
4. Nxd4?! e5
5. Nb5?!

For White : Why? 4. c3 is much, much, better! In this variation, its very difficult to defend yourself, unless you're Paul Morphy. But you aren't, so don't even try, unless you enjoy losing.

For Black : Be happy. White wastes tempi for no compensation! Just do simple developement, as in the Morphy - Anderssen game, but concentrate on development. Anderssen lost because he was being a moron.