48
THE OPPOSITION
Example 28. — The following position is an excellent proof of the value of the opposition as a means of defence.
White is a Pawn behind and apparently lost, yet he can manage to draw as follows:
1. K—R1!
The position of the Pawns does not permit White to draw by means of the actual or close opposition, hence he takes the distant opposition: in effect if 1 K—B 1 (actual or close opposition), K—Q 7; 2 K—B 2, K—Q 6 and White cannot continue to keep the lateral opposition essential to his safety, because of his own Pawn at B 3. On the other hand, after the text move, if
1. ........... K—Q7
2. K—R2 K—Q6
3. K—R3! K—K7