Owen Defence
Owen Defence (1…b6)
Definition
The Owen Defence is a chess opening that begins with the moves:
1. e4 b6
Black immediately fianchettoes the queen’s bishop to the long a8–h1 diagonal (usually after …Bb7). The opening belongs to ECO code A40 and is classified among the “Irregular” or “Semi-Open” games because Black does not answer 1.e4 with the customary 1…e5, 1…c5, 1…e6, or 1…c6.
Typical Move-Order
The most frequently seen continuation runs:
1. e4 b6 2. d4 Bb7 3. Nc3 e6 4. Nf3 Bb4 5. Bd3 Nf6, when Black has completed development of the kingside pieces and is ready to challenge the center with …c5 or …d5.
Strategic Ideas
- Long-Diagonal Pressure – After …Bb7, Black seeks to exert influence on e4 and d5, discouraging White from an over-extended center.
- Flexible Pawn Structure – Black keeps central pawns fluid. Depending on White’s setup, Black can break with …c5, …d5, or even …f5.
- Delayed Commitment – Because …b6 does not immediately define the pawn structure, Black retains the option of transposing to French-like or Queen’s Indian-like formations.
- Risk of Passivity – If Black mishandles the opening, the fianchettoed bishop can become “biting on granite” while White seizes space with c4, d5, and e5.
Historical Background
The defence is named after English master Rev. John Owen (1827-1901). In an 1858 London consultation game versus the legendary Paul Morphy, Owen surprise-armed himself with 1…b6, scoring a notable upset. Morphy later defeated Owen in a famous exhibition, but the opening had earned a permanent place in opening theory.
Despite sporadic appearances through the 19th and 20th centuries, the line never became mainstream. Nevertheless, several strong grandmasters—Tony Miles, Bent Larsen, and more recently, Vadim Zvjaginsev and Magnus Carlsen (in rapid/blitz)—have used it as a surprise weapon.
Modern Evaluation
The Owen Defence is considered sound but slightly inferior; engines typically give White a small edge (+0.2 – +0.5) after best play. It thrives on surprise value, rich middlegame complexity, and Black’s readiness to steer play into less-charted territory.
Main Variations
- Classical Line: 1.e4 b6 2.d4 Bb7 3.Nc3 e6 4.Nf3 Bb4 5.Bd3 Nf6
- Double-Fianchetto: 1.e4 b6 2.d4 Bb7 3.Bd3 g6 4.Nf3 Bg7
- Immediate Central Clash: 1.e4 b6 2.d4 Bb7 3.Nc3 e6 4.Nf3 Bb4 5.Bd3 Nf6 6.Qe2 d5!
- English-Knight System: 1.e4 b6 2.Nf3 Bb7 3.Nc3 e6 4.d4 Bb4
Illustrative Games
Owen vs. Morphy, London 1858
Although Morphy eventually triumphed, Owen’s choice of 1…b6 startled contemporary spectators. The game popularized the idea of challenging the classical center from a flank.
Short vs. Miles, British Ch. 1980
Miles uncorked 1…b6 and defeated Nigel Short in 25 moves, proving the opening’s practical venom.
Interactive Miniature
This sample shows typical motifs: Black’s queenside pressure, the active long-diagonal bishop, and dynamic pawn breaks.
Practical Tips for Players
- For Black:
- Memorize the basic set-ups rather than long forced lines; flexibility is your biggest asset.
- Strike the center with …c5 or …d5 before White can consolidate with c4 and d5.
- Avoid automatic …g6 setups until you’re sure White cannot grab too much space.
- For White:
- Build a strong pawn center with d4 and c4, then consider e5 to cramp the b7-bishop.
- Be alert to transpositions into French-like positions after …e6 and …d5.
- Piece activity matters more than preserving the two bishops—don’t fear exchanging on b7 or g2 if it gains time.
Interesting Facts & Anecdotes
- GM Bent Larsen used 1…b6 so often that in Denmark the defence is sometimes jokingly called the “Bent Larsen Defence,” though the official naming remains Owen.
- In the 1970s, database statistics showed that club players scored significantly better with 1…b6 than with mainstream replies, largely because opponents were unprepared.
- The move 1…b6 can transpose to the English Defence (1.d4 b6) if White plays 2.d4; thus a single opening preparation can serve both sides of the board.
Conclusion
The Owen Defence is a resourceful, offbeat answer to 1.e4. While objectively granting White a small pull, it offers Black a playable middlegame rich in tactical chances and psychological value—perfect for players who relish steering the game away from well-trodden theoretical highways.