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Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit

+100%
A001.g4 d5 2.Bg2 Bxg4 3.c4 d4
Mar 25, 2026
TL;DR

An uncommon opening classified under ECO A00 (Irregular Openings). a variation of the Grob's Attack.

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Chessiverse
Chessiverse TeamOpening Guides

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Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit: A Complete Guide
Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit - Opening Moves
Summary

The Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit arises after 1.g4 d5 2.Bg2 Bxg4 3.c4 d4 and falls under ECO code A00. With 23,073 Lichess games across all rating levels, it is a rarely played opening.

History and Notable Players

It arises from the Grob's Attack: Fritz Gambit.

Statistics

Based on 23,073 Lichess games across all rating levels:

  • White wins: 57%
  • Black wins: 40.4%
  • Draws: 2.6%

White has a significant statistical advantage in this line, reflecting the initiative that comes with the first move.

Practice on Chessiverse

The best way to learn the Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit is through practice. On Chessiverse, you can play chess against computer opponents that specialize in this opening. Our AI bots range from beginner to grandmaster level, each with unique playing styles — from aggressive attackers to solid defenders. Choose a bot that matches your rating and work your way up as you master the opening's key ideas.

Quick Facts

Main Line1.g4 d5 2.Bg2 Bxg4 3.c4 d4
DifficultyIntermediate
Parent OpeningGrob's Attack: Fritz Gambit
Style

Unorthodox openings deviate from classical principles to surprise opponents and lead the game into unfamiliar territory. They can be highly effective when the opponent is unprepared.

23,073games on Lichess
57%
2.6%
40.4%
White wins Draws Black wins

Data from Lichess opening explorer (blitz & rapid)

Most Popular At2500
SharpnessVery Sharp

Popularity by Rating

Percentage of all games at each rating bracket that feature this opening.

Data from Lichess opening explorer (blitz & rapid games)

Theory Adherence by Rating

How often players choose the single most popular move at this position. Higher = more predictable play.

White to move after the opening line

Popularity Over Time

Share of all Lichess blitz + rapid games featuring this opening, by year.

Top Moves by Rating

White to move after the opening line

RatingMost Popular2nd3rd
400Bxb783.1%Qb38.4%Qa4+3.1%
1000Bxb787.9%Qb36.3%Qa4+2.3%
1200Bxb786.5%Qb38.2%Qa4+2.6%
1400Bxb783.8%Qb311.6%Qa4+1.8%
1600Bxb779%Qb316.7%d31.9%
1800Bxb780.6%Qb316.9%d31.7%
2000Bxb786.9%Qb310.5%d31.8%
2200Bxb793.3%Qb35.5%d31%
2500Bxb792%d35%Qb33%

Popularity by Time Control

Bullet
<0.01%14K
Blitz
<0.01%19K
Rapid
<0.01%4K

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit?

The Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit begins with 1.g4 d5 2.Bg2 Bxg4 3.c4 d4 and is classified under ECO code A00.

Is the Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit good for beginners?

The Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit can be played at any level. Beginners should focus on understanding the key strategic ideas rather than memorizing long theoretical lines. Our AI bots at various rating levels provide a great way to practice the opening concepts.

What are the win rates for the Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit?

Across 23,073 Lichess games, White wins 57% of the time, Black wins 40.4%, and 2.6% are drawn.

How can I practice the Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit?

On Chessiverse, you can practice the Grob's Attack: Romford Counter-Gambit by playing against our 600+ AI bots. Each bot has a unique playing style and opening repertoire, so you can find the perfect sparring partner for any level.

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Written by

Chessiverse
Chessiverse TeamOpening Guides

Expert chess content backed by opening theory and our database of 600+ AI bots with unique playing styles and opening repertoires.

Practice This Opening on Chessiverse

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