Next Steps

At first glance there are lots of options and lots of things to do here. White has a decent board but several blots, and you have ammunition in the right places. What’s the right theme?

You could blitz with 6/2 6/3* (unstacking your 6-point) or 24/20 6/3*. But you just don’t have the board yet, and the resulting blot-hitting contest is one you’re likely to lose. What’s your most important tactical move right now? It’s got to be preventing White from making their 5-point. With that made they have a big advantage in the game. So you must hit 24/20*. Then you’re left with either 20/17, 13/10, or 10/7 - all of which offer different risks & rewards. The answer comes from thinking about that upcoming blot-hitting contest. If you do get hit back, where do you want your checkers to be?

Hopefully that guides you to leave your half-anchor on the 5-point alone, and instead build your outfield prime with 13/10.

24/20* 13/10 it is. Anything else is a huge blunder.