New Year's Eve Puzzles

As we close the end of the year (okay it's not New Year's Eve yet - I know, it's time to stretch our brain muscles! (Answers can be found by highlighting between the brackets)

Puzzle #1: White to move. Evaluate 1. Bg8+ - Do you see a mating attack?

[Yes. 1. Bg8+ Kh8 (if ...Kh6, 2. Qf7 with mate on h7) 2. Qf7 Bg7 (forced) 3. Nxe5! and Black cannot avoid mate]

Puzzle #2: Black to Move. Endgame technique time! What is Black's best move here?[The adage "do not hurry" comes to mind here. 1. ...g4! Now White's pawns are completely paralyzed. Any pawn move and the g-pawn captures and queens easily]

Happy Holidays!!

It's time to take a break from the endless seams of analysis and enjoy the holidays!!

Wishing One And All Seasons' Greetings And A Happy New Year!

Tactics Exercise

This puzzle is a tough one. It is - if you don't see the idea or continuing line. But once you see it, you'll understand it.

This just occurred less than 10 min ago in a blitz game I played online.

I am Black. White is in absolute dire straits but Black must play carefully.

White had his King run up the board to h4 to escape the pin of his Knight on f3.

I did not see the following line unfortunately and missed the opportunity to end this in the most efficient manner.

Black to play and mate (Hint: in less than 5).

Answer can be found by highlighting the brackets
[1... Ng6+

2. Kh5 Qg4 and White cannot stop Nf4# or Qh4#

2. Kh3 Bd6! and White cannot stop Qh2# or Qg3#]