Iloilo Kisela Knights put extra effort on the board as they successfully eliminated rival Cordova Dutchess Dagami Warriors in two straight sets, 15.5-5.5 and 13-8 in the Southern Division Finals clash of the ongoing Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) GM Wesley So Cup over the weekend.
Owned by Leo Sotaridona, the Iloilo City-based squad was triumphant in the finals, thanks to the leading scorers GM Hovhannes Gabuzyan, Karl Viktor Ochoa, Cesar Mariano, John Michael Silvederio, and Dennis Bernas, GM Rogelio Antonio Jr., and Cherry Ann Mejia.
“It’s a very impressive team performance during this crucial match against Cordova. Everyone delivered on their respective boards but most notably, GM Joey Antonio and Karl Ochoa, for winning against GM Nitzan Steinberg, the import of Cordova. Tonight, GM Joey proved once again that he is the true iron man of chess,” shared Sotaridona.
With the victory, IKK punches the ticket to the finals wherein they will face San Juan Predators of the Northern Division in the two-leg championship bout on Wednesday night. The Predators advanced to the finals after beating first conference champion Laguna Heroes.
To recall, Kisela Knights have previously faced the Predators but suffered a 13-8 defeat. However, Sotaridona said it will be a different match in the finals as they will prepare for it.
For Antonio, he said they won the game but they need to prepare for the most important game this season, the finals. “I do not want to disappoint our owner Leo Sotaridona so I need to give my best. This is for him,” he added.IMT
