Theoria
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French Defense

St. George Defense, Sanky-George Gambit

C00gambitoffbeataggressive

  1. 1.e4e6
  2. 2.d4a6
  3. 3.c4b5
523 games48%49%

A French Defense gambit where Black meets the Three Pawn Attack with ...b5, offering a pawn for an open a-file and quick development.

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About the Sanky-George Gambit

The Sanky-George Gambit arises when Black persists with 3...b5 against the Three Pawn Attack, offering the b-pawn to the c4-pawn that already attacks the b5 square. The usual reply, 4. cxb5 axb5, reaches the St. George Gambit. There the bishop on f1 can take on b5, and Black relies on the open a-file and fast development for compensation. White's second choice, 4. c5, declines the pawn and gains queenside space. Engines give White a slight edge, yet Lichess results are almost even.

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