Interesting to read GM Rogers comments on the match per his interview with Ushenina coach
GM Khalifman. Naturally, upon defeat, most coaches wonder “what could I have done better to
prepare my charges ??” Khalifman mentions various factors which may have led to Ushenina being
uncomfortable, such as Ushenina’s constantly being in time trouble, which led to not as well played
tactics. But given the match dominance, of 5.5 to 1.5, factors such as breakfast times seem hollow.
At this level, other than basic theory advice, what difference can a coach really make between rounds
in an effort to improve results??
As one who has been a “fly on the wall” listening to parents bash coaches for their kids not playing well in major events, while I am working on the tournament in which their darlings are currently playing, and
as a youth coach myself, I find this subject fascinating.
Rob Jones