Rook endings · advanced
Rook behind the passer
Advance a protected passer while keeping the rook active behind it.
The rule
Keep the rook behind your passed pawn so every pawn move opens more of the file.
How to play it
- 1
Keep the rook behind
Do not block the pawn by putting the rook in front.
- 2
Bring the king
Use the king to attack the blockading rook and shelter from checks.
- 3
Choose the push
Push when the enemy rook cannot get behind the pawn.
Study the line, then play it
Step through the example. Then play your moves from the same position.
8
7
6
5
4
3
2
1a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
Move 0 of 5
Starting position
Play through the line one move at a time.
Before you play
Moves to calculate
- 1.Check for a rear-rook entry
- 2.Answer any rook check
- 3.Advance after the blocker moves
Check each reply because
Check for a capture or a rook move behind the pawn before advancing your king.
Stop when
A check forces a king reply or the enemy rook reaches the rear of the pawn.
Common mistake
Putting the rook in front blocks both pieces and invites rear checks.
Promote the a-pawn without allowing perpetual rook checks.
Start with a comfortable clock. Reduce it when the position feels familiar. Your record is 0/0.