By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Iloilo Kisela Knights managed to settle for another 1-1 split during the recently concluded 2021 Professional Chess Association of the Philippines (PCAP) San Miguel Corporation-Ayala Land Premier Association Cup playoffs.
Facing two tough teams in PCAP playoffs Day 17, the Kisela Knights fell at the hands of the PH Paralympics team, 11.5-9.5, and bounced back in their second game against Olongapo, 18-3.
After the first seven playing boards, the Kisela Knights tried to recover from an early deficit, 1.5-5.5 against the Paralympic team.
However, Iloilo had a magical run in the Rapid category as they were able to regain their rhythm finished the category, 8-6, but wasn’t enough after the final score tally.
Meanwhile, against Olongapo, Iloilo was able to dictate the pace as they jumped to an early 6-1 lead in the blitz category.
The onslaught continued in the last seven playing boards as Iloilo, courtesy of hot performances from GM Rogelio Antonio Jr. and NM Giovanni Mejia, was able to snowball their way for the victory.
Due to two straight 1-1 splits, Iloilo is now back at the no. 2 spot of the Southern division with 315.5 points.
