To use a Star Trek metaphor, Spock would concede when the outcome of the match was decided (mathematically/logically), but Kirk would play to the bitter end, because - hey, he's Kirk.

There is a quiet dignity in Spock's concession, and something to be admired in undying, though desperate, spirit.

That was well stated. If we were playing Spock and he conceded, no one would look down on him.

If we were playing Kirk and he kept on to the bitter end, you would still respect his spirit.

If you were playing Bones... well, he's going to complain through all of it and you don't know if he's gonna play the whole game or quit in the middle...

I wouldn't respect Kirk at all

considering how he deals with a no win scenario, I'd accuse him of cheating