First steps on the big board: Repeating the “Springer” strike and learning the Half-Moon (Fabra) strike. Part 3

27.01.2026

When taking their first steps on the large board, every beginner checkers player learns about a variety of combination mechanisms that can be used in their game. One of the next combination moves in the mandatory training program is the “Springer” move. Today, we will review it and learn about the Half-Moon (Fabra) move.

The Half-Moon (Fabra) is usually performed from a classic stance. We will show you the first examples, but try to figure out the last positions on your own.

Let’s get started with the training!

Example 1

Let’s review Springer’s move from the previous lesson and recall its mechanism on our own.

Black decided to apply “forcing” and did not notice Springer’s move for White.

  1. ……       21-27??
  2. 31:22    12-18
  3. ……..    How did the white respond?
Example 2

Springer’s strike
Example 3

Springer’s strike. But in this example, you will have to use a little “force” against your opponent and force them to fall for a strike that you are familiar with.
Example 4

In our new lesson, let’s learn about the Half-Moon move. Many novice draughts players miss it even in its most basic form, as shown in the diagram. This is because they overlook the majority in the classic position.

How can you give up a piece in order to win later? – coaches of young talents are often asked. And the keen eye of a talented student immediately notices with a squint: “Here’s how!”

  1. 33-29!!  24:31  (Please take three pieces!)
  2. 30-24!   19:30
  3. 28:6    (It’s time to surrender to the black guys.
Example 5

Sometimes, a crescent strike is just one threat short. In draughts, preparatory moves with a combination threat are called “forcing.”

So, let’s create a threat:

  1. 44-40! (We threaten to give up two and beat either a lot or a little, but on the field 10. And from there it’s not so far to King.)

1. …..  18-23 (Where to go?)

And the whites will strike back at the position like a Half-Moon!

2. 33-29!  24:31

3. 30-24   19:30

4. 28:37  (how beautiful!)
Example 6

And sometimes there are checkers. Everything is so crammed together. And suddenly, Half-Moon appears out of the fog, as it seems.

  1. 34-29  24:31
  2. 30-24  19:30
  3. 28:6
Example 7

If you look closely, you can’t see the Half-Moon. But if you look even closer, you can summon it using magic and the power of magical “prayer beads.” Just kidding! A simple “forcing” comes to our aid.

  1. 27-22!  18:27
  2. 35-30!  20-24  (Black’s attack 27-31 is ineffective, as White responds with 30-25 and gains a winning position)
  3. 33-29  24:31
  4. 30-24  27:38
  5. 43:32  19:30
  6. 28:6
Example 8

Now try to solve the following three problems on your own.
Example 9
Example 10

 

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