Ruslan Ponomariov: “I WILL NOT PLAY TOMORROW”
The first game of the semi final games between Ruslan Ponomariov and Vladimir Malakhov was ended in a draw. One did not want to risk with black, another did not strive to win.
• R.P.: It is very difficult to estimate the position without serious analyses. There was a solid and quite game and we squared up with piece.
• V.M.: At one point the white pieces had a shaky position, but the white should play very precisely to prove an advantage. I chose the safest way – a Bishop endgame. This is a logical end.
• Ruslan, you played the tie breaks yesterday. How are you today?
• R.P.: I was not exhausted today. We did not have a sharp fight today. I was playing white and let myself play quietly.
• Vladimir, how did you spend your rest day yesterday?
• V.M.: I walked around the city, but not for a long time, it was cold. Then I saw the games in Internet and started preparing for a game. It is important that I managed to recover. You have a rare chance to rest during the tournament.
• Whom did you consider the most preferable opponent in the semi final games?
• V.M.: There were no preferences. Moreover it was clear who my opponent will be. Ruslan won his first game against Vugar and he had a serious advantage in the second after the opening. Already then I was 95% sure that will play against him.
• How did you prepare for your match?
• V.M.: One should not prepare much playing black. As it is known my opening repertoire is not that wide. So, I refreshed some variations and worked on the problem points.
• Ruslan, are you proud of the fact that the two Ukrainian chess players have qualified to the semi final games?
• R.P.: As far as I know Karjakin represents Russia now. Personally I am very glad that now I play better than two years ago, when I lost to Kamsky in quarter finals.
• Vladimir, do you think that your opponent is a favorite of the tournament?
• V.M.: We shall see. There are no random players left here. All participants are in good shape.
• Whom would you like to see as the second finalist of the Cup?
• R.P.: Both Gelfand and Karjakin are interesting players. I would gladly play against any of them.
• V.M.: My first consideration is my match. Otherwise I will follow the final games from home.
• Is this marathon difficult for both of you?
• I have no strength left at all. I will not come to play tomorrow, – sarcastically jokes Ruslan.
Pono is a chess genius. He would have beat Kasparov if they played.
He needs a rest after a few games, what a profession!