French Defense · C00

St. George Defense

1. e4 e6 2. d4 a6

In the centre, White holds d4 and e4.

The first 4 moves, explained

• 1. e4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling d5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 1... e6 Supports the centre, adding control of d5. Theory calls this the French Defense.
• 2. d4 Stakes a claim in the centre, controlling e5, and frees the bishop and queen.
• 2... a6 Takes b5 away from White's bishop. Theory calls this the St. George Defense.

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