Mongoose Variation

The early 2...Qa5 places the queen on the a5-e1 diagonal, pinning the d2-pawn so that the usual 3. d4 is illegal. The cost is time, since the queen develops ahead of the minor pieces and can become a target. 3. Nc3 is the most common reply and is also the engine's top choice. 3. c3 blocks the diagonal and prepares d4, and 3. Bc4 is another option. White scores well, and the engine gives White a slight edge.