How to Play the Bird Opening – Myers Defense
The Bird Opening, characterized by the initial move 1. f4, aims to control the e5 square, establishing strong central control from the flank. The Myers Defense is a less common and bold response to this opening, starting with the move …b5. Below, these initial moves are broken down:
- 1. f4: This move advances the f-pawn to the f4 square. It is the start of the Bird Opening, aiming to control the center indirectly and prepare the development of the king’s bishop.
- 1… b5: In response, Black plays b5, an aggressive and unorthodox move that seeks to counterattack from the queen’s side and potentially disrupt White’s central control.
Variations of the Bird Opening – Myers Defense
While the Myers Defense is not as explored as other responses to the Bird Opening, it presents some interesting lines that Black can consider:
1… e5
The From Counter-Gambit, played with 1… e5, aims to directly challenge White’s central control. Although not a variation of the Myers Defense, it is a popular alternative to consider after 1. f4.
2. e4 bxe4