Diag. 126
Black allows his opponent too much latitude on the King’s wing. He should prevent White’s P-B5, which obstructs his QB, by P-KB4. After P-K5 the game would be equalised by B-B4, BxKt, and B-K3.
A draw would then be practically certain, with the Bishops of opposite colours. Black probably thought White would not risk weakening his KP by P-B5. But with unfailing judgment Lasker foresees that, in consequence of the greater mobility of his pieces, his attack will be successful before a counter attack on the weak KP can be instituted.
11. Kt-Kt3 P-B3
Even now P-KB4 was imperative, though it would keep the Bishop from that square. The continuation could have been 12. P-K5, B- Kt5; 13. Kt-K2 (or R4), Kt-Q4, and the Bishop is safe.
12. P-B5!!
This move has a twofold aim. It shuts in the Bishop, and allows B-B4, exchanging the Black QB.
12. … P-QKt3
The diagonal QR1-KR8 is the only one in which the Bishop has any prospects of action. However, as soon as he relinquishes his present diagonal, a White Knight settles at K6 and the Black Rooks are very much hampered.
13. B-B4 B-Kt2