Rediff

Bonn, Oct 18: Viswanathan Anand crushed Vladimir Kramnik with black pieces to score the first victory in the 12-game World Chess Championship final in Bonn on Friday.

Anand, who had played Kramnik in the Slav Exchange in the first game of the 12-game match, found himself in the same opening once again. This time, unlike the first draw, the Russian was outwitted by the Indian in 41 moves.

Kramnik also seemed to be in time trouble as Anand squeezed him.  The Indian ace appeared well-prepared and went all out in a very aggressive manner. Kramnik did try to fight back, but Anand was always better-placed, even though in a disguised manner, which later made it clear that his preparation was designed to deceive his opponent.

Defending champion Anand now leads 2-1 in the 12-game match, where the first to reach 6.5 will be declared winner.

Both players will however share equally the prize purse of 1.5 million euros.

In the fourth game on Saturday, Anand will have white pieces.