De La Salle University played the role of spoilers for Far Eastern University as it handed the latter its first loss with a 2.5-1.5 victory in Round 11 of the UAAP Season 86 Women’s Chess Championship at the FEU Tech Gym on Sunday.
With this win, DLSU solidified its bid for a podium finish, increasing its match points total to nine. FEU, who had eight wins and a draw before Round 11, remained atop the standings with 17 match points and is already assured of at least a second-place finish.
Woman National Master Sara Olendo [5.5/9] executed a massive queen sacrifice to launch an unstoppable mating attack, forcing FEU’s previously undefeated Woman National Master Mhage Sebastian [8/10] on Board 3 into checkmate.
Woman National Master Rinoa Sadey [5/9] then outplayed Woman National Master Bea Mendoza [2.5/6] in the endgame after 59 moves of a Robatsch Defense on Board 4. On Board 2, Woman National Master Francois Magpily [4.5/9] settled for a draw with Woman National Master Mary Joy Tan [7.5/10] after 74 moves of a rook endgame to complete DLSU’s triumph.
Woman National Master Vic Glysen Derotas [7/10] secured the lone win for FEU as she outplayed Checy Telesforo [3/9] on the top board.
University of the Philippines also scored a massive upset in Round 11 by dominating the defending champion National University, 3-1.
Jerlyn San Diego [4/8] and Geraldine Guyo [3.5/8] each earned a point against Woman FIDE Master Allaney Doroy [7/9] and Natasja Balabbo [5.5/9] on Board 1 and 4, respectively.
Precious Ferrer [5/9] and Jallen Agra [3/8] then split the points with Princess Ballete [3.5/7] and Jesca Docena [4.5/9] on Board 2 and 3, respectively, to complete the win.
It was NU’s second loss, with its only other loss coming at the hands of the league-leading FEU.
Meanwhile, Ateneo de Manila University remained in third place, thanks to a 4-0 sweep of Adamson University.
Jiessel Marino [7/9], Ma. Elayza Villa [5/9], Alphecca Gonzales [4/7], and Glesit Tatoy [1.5/2] all prevailed over Zheilleen Jain [0/2], Robell De Jesus [3.5/10], Phoebie Arellano [2/9], and Jashua Patria [2/10] on Boards 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively, for the shutout victory.
Round 12 is scheduled for Wednesday, November 15.
