Removing the defender is capturing or chasing away a piece that guards something, so that what it guarded can be taken. It is also called undermining.
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Start0/1
Most targets are defended. Instead of adding attackers, take away the defender, and the target falls to the attackers you already have.
How to do it
- 1Find the piece you want and the one piece defending it.
- 2Capture that defender, or attack it so it must move.
- 3Take the target before the opponent can defend it again.
For your level
Before giving up on a defended piece, look at its defender. Take it, or chase it away.
Check you have it
Question 1 of 2
Play the moves through and count. How much material has the attacker won?
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Question 2 of 2
Find the strongest move in this position and play it.
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Play your move on the board.
Common mistakes
- Counting a pinned piece as a defender when it cannot legally take back.
- Taking the defender when a second defender can step in.
Questions
- Is removing the defender the same as deflection?
- They are close. Removing the defender captures the guard or chases it off. Deflection forces the guard to leave its post, usually by offering it something to take.