Blockade

[Taken from Krulik, Rudnick p. 72 with additions by Stephanie Wilcox.]

Playing pieces are placed on cells A and B in Figure A-7 for player 1, and on cells C and D for player 2. Players take turns moving one playing piece along lines on the playing surface into any vacant, adjacent circle. No jumps or captures are permitted. A player loses when he or she cannot move either or his or her two pieces in his or her turn. Is there any way to ensure success? Is this simply a game of play to play strategy or it is consistently winnable? Suggest strategies for this game and discuss which player would be in the best position-the player that begins or starts second.

Needs picture.