Mamedyarov a half clear

Andriasian is having a hard time so far in Hoogeveen, but it might be too early to conclude that this tournament is too strong for him. The lowest-rated player had to start with two Blacks against the two strongest and lost twice. Yesterday it was Mamedyarov, twice world juniors champion himself, who beat the boy, scoring his second win. Van Wely and Ponomariov played a not too intersting draw and in the open group GM Jan Werle is leading.

Standings after two rounds:

In the open group, the Dutch player Roi Miedema attracted some attention in the last two rounds. First he beat ChessVibes editor IM Merijn van Delft (sorry Merijn!) and then he played a fantastic game against GM Luc Winants:

Jan Werle had no trouble against Amon Simutowe and is the only player on 4/4 now. He will be put to the test today, with Black against GM Postny. Standings here.