This is a classic example of a deflection play.
White has an advanced anchor and so Red wants one as well if at all possible.
If Red plays on automatic and moves 24/13 it gives White total
Avoiding an Anchor
Unlimited Games. How should Red play 52?
eXtreme Gammon ID: XGID=aBaBBBB--A---AA-ac-cB-bbb-:1:-1:1:52:0:0:3:0:10
Answer and Commentary
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White already has a back game so the last thing Red should do is to send another checker back and give White the chance of making a third anchor.
When playing against a back game it is important