Iloilo Kisela Knights wrapped up the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) All-Filipino Conference with a second place finish.
The Leo Sotaridona-owned professional chess team bowed to perennial rival San Juan Predators in the finale match.
In the first match, the Ilonggos struggled to get points in both blitz and rapid, ending the game 16-5.
It was a scintillating match in the second game with both teams trying to eke out each other. However, the game tied at 10.5 all, which resulted to Armageddon.
GM Joey Antonio, Karl Ochoa and NM Rolly Parondo Jr. bannered Kisela in the do-or-die game, but unfortunately, it was only Perondo who scored, giving San Juan the coveted title.
“It was a very close fight. While our best is not enough this time, I can tell the whole team worked very hard to reach this far – our team is a work in progress; our efforts were never in vain for as long as we keep learning and improving. With that I’ll say we’ll be back, but for now, congratulations to team San Juan for a terrific back to back championship crowns despite the overwhelming obstacles,” shared Sotaridona.
This was the second consecutive PCAP championship for the Predators after also defeating the Kisela Knights for the Third Conference title last year.
To recall, this was the fourth post-season clash between Iloilo and San Juan with the Ilonggos winning the third place trophy in All-Filipino Conference and championship in Wesley So Cup.
Meanwhile, Pasig City King Pirates ranked third place after a 13-8 domination over Davao Golden Eagles.
With the successful turnout, PCAP organizers eye to open the second conference on July 2022.IMT Sports
