Playing solid chess against a stronger opponent can often lead to a draw, even if the stronger player has a significant rating advantage. The key is to avoid making any glaring weaknesses or inaccuracies in your play, as these can be ruthlessly punished by a higher-rated opponent.
This is the theme employed by my opponent during round three. He maintained a solid pawn structure, keeping his pieces actively placed and coordinated which made it extremely difficult for me to make progress. The outcome was a draw.
While drawing a lower-rated adversary may not be the most glamorous outcome, it demonstrates the sound positional judgment and tenacity of my opponent. These are hallmarks of a skillful chess player capable of frustrating even formidable opposition.