It was a solid comeback for both Iloilo Kisela Knights and Negros Kingsmen in the ongoing Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) – GM Wesley So Cup over the weekend.
This, after the two powerhouse teams registered two victories each against their rivals.
The Ilonggo squad made sure to extend their winning streak after dominating Cebu City Machers, 15-6. They ruled the blitz game behind GM Kamil Dragun (Board 1), Fiona Geeweneth Guirhem (Board 3), Cesar Mariano (Board 4), John Michael Silvederio (Board 5), Dennis Bernas (Board 6), and Mark Mariano (Board 7).
GM Rogelio Antonio (Board 2), Cherry Ann Mejia (Board 3), Cesar Mariano (Board 4), and Silvederio (Board 5), and a draw from Dragun (Board 1) completed the first game victory.
Cruising for an 8-3 win loss card, IKK also banked on their locals to demolish the Trojans in the blitz game, courtesy of Dragun (Board 1), Antonio (Board 2), Mejia (Board 3), Cesar Mariano (Board 4), and Mark Jossel Mariano (Board 7) and a draw by Silvederio (Board 6).
Trojans also bowed in the rapid with wins from Dragun (Board 1), Mejia (Board 3), Cesar Mariano (Board 4), Bernas (Board 5), and Mark Mariano (Board 7) and draws from Antonio (Board 2) and Silvederio (Board 6).
For owner Leo Sotaridona, he said it was an impressive finish for the team, especially Mariano who did the best moves.
Meanwhile, the Kingsmen also won two matches. They defeated Palawan Queen’s Gambit, 12-9, and a 17-4 beating of Mindoro Tamaraws for a 6-6 win loss record.IMT
