From: TCobbs <TCobbs@aol.com>
Date: Mon, 19 Jan 1998 20:16:24 EST
Subject: More discussion of Move #3
Message-id: <663d0230.34c3faeb@aol.com>

After reading other players' commentary, I have a few more points to add to my earlier post.

(1) Concerning leave, I did make the mistake of stating the case more in terms of generic optimal leave rather than what is best for this board position. Aaron Long noted the row 6 hook N-OD, a possibility I had seen (though I didn't mention it in my original post), but didn't consider a cogent enough reason, all by itself, for keeping the N -- especially since I expect another N to show up very soon (but those who would respond that a tile in the rack is worth two in the bag, do have a point). BLipton makes a good point that N works better with the J than does D. On the other hand, we shouldn't pin all our hopes on getting that J play, as opp may get it first.

Still, based on the combination of these two factors (NOD and J-N synergy), I would have to revise my opinion and say that NL is a better leave in this position than DL.

(2) Rich Baker and I seem to disagree about how to evaluate an opp's response on row 13 after JADES/JANES. I see that opening as a way for opp to pick up cheap points, he says we're better off after opp plays on row 13. I don't see the reasoning behind that, unless it has to do with new hook opportunities on row 14 after opp's play. Please elaborate, Rich.

I'd like to request that someone with Maven, when they sim this position and post results, please provide statistics for each of our choices about which hot spots opp uses, what percentage of the time and for how many points on average. My experience tells me that the VCV pattern should be avoided, but perhaps I'm too fixated on an idea that's either wrong or not as important as other considerations in this position. (Putting the E at 12D may be one such consideration -- good point, Rich.)

In closing, I have to say that I am loving the consensus game -- what a great new forum for learning more about our favorite game!! I am very grateful for the opportunity to ask the experts the questions I have always been too shy to ask them in person! No more lurking for me!

Tracy Cobbs (MadMax)