King, Rook pawn and Knight vs King

Why should I learn it?

Rook pawns are fickle creatures, and they often require a lot of support (emotional and otherwise) in order to make themselves worth their full potential (which, as for any other pawn, means a brand-new Queen fresh out of the oven). Even when you have an extra Knight to help push these little creatures forward, you must be careful about not stalemating the opponent’s King.

When do I use it?

This scenario would most likely be the outcome of a Knight and pawns vs Knight and pawns ending where you got the upper hand. It’s more or less uncommon, but still fully worth understanding. You never know when the need will arise for masterfully playing this endgame.

Link to Practice Problems

King, Rook pawn and Knight vs King problem #1

Step-by-Step Guide on King, Rook pawn and Knight vs King

White to move. Gradually bring your king and gain space. Then re position your knight in order to spring a quick checkmate: h7 and Nf7, once the the time is ripe.

Moving in to support the pawn’s advance.

…Kf7

Black did this move to try and trick White into a draw. At a glance, one might think that pushing the pawn here would be alright since the knight could support it from f6, and that taking the knight would let the pawn promote. Yes, the pawn would be safe but it wouldn’t be able to promote either.

Gaining some space.

(2. Kh5 also wins)

(2. h7 Kg7 3. Nf6 Kh8 4. Kg5 Kg7 5. Kf5 Kh8 6. Ke6 Kg7 7. Ke7 Kh8. This is the reason why we mentioned the pawn wouldn’t be able to promote earlier. It either becomes a stalemate or both kings would just go back and forth.)