I was hoping for a draw

SAMUEL SHANKLAND: I DID NOT EXPECT THAT I COULD DEFEAT LEKO!

http://chess.ugrasport.com

The main sensation of the 1 day is the victory of the young American Grandmaster Sameul Shankland playing Black over one of the favorites of the World Cup Peter Leko (Hungary).

Inspired by his success, Shankland showed his initiative and came to the commentators Anna Sharevich and Konstantin Landa to tell about the game. — Of course I never expected to defeat with Black Peter Leko! I was hoping for a draw but everything could happen. That is why initially I prepared for my game with White a very sharp variation. Obviously I will reconsider my plans for Leko playing Black will surely do his utmost to make complications.

After the opening Leko had got an advantage and his position was better during the whole game. When the game started to be presice we did not manage to avoid mutual blunders but I operated with tactical variations better. We faced the endgame with the position of a good Black Knight against a weak White Bishop. But even here I was ready for a draw until Leko started making several unlucky moves in a row. When my opponent offered a draw he had already a very bad position and I continued playing for I was not risking. Obviously I am very happy that could defeat Leko with Black.