THE ATENEO Women’s Chess Team toppled the University of the East (UE) Lady Warriors, 3-1, in the 11th round of matches in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines Season 82 Women’s Chess Tournament on Saturday, October 19, at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila City. 

Despite an unfruitful first-round encounter with the Lady Warriors, the Lady Eagles succeeded in today’s redemption match, allowing Ateneo to improve to a 6-2-3 record with a total of 26 points. The Lady Eagles still remain at third place alongside the UST Golden Tigresses while the UE Lady Warriors trail at fifth place.

Team Captain Merlene Membrere led the charge, securing a win at the first board. Alexis Oseña followed on the second board, but failed to fend off UE’s Cristine Medenilla. Manilyn Cabuncag and Laila Nadera took control of boards three and four, respectively, delivering a point each to complete Ateneo’s payback run against the Lady Warriors.

Membrere admitted that their unexpected first-round loss to UE was due to a lack of preparation. “But this time, as soon as we got home last Sunday, Coach [Yves Rañola] told us about our opponents and what openings to study,” she said. Membrere added that the team has been fighting to secure their spot in the Top 3. “The team’s confidence has always been there and I trust my teammates. I know that they are giving their best,” Membrere confidently said. 

When asked how the team manages to maintain their spot at third place, Membrere said that they will need to exert more effort as the tournament winds down. “We just need to focus [in our games] and do our best [in every game] no matter who the opponent is.” 

The Lady Eagles seek another victory in their next match as they face the University of the Philippines Lady Maroons on Sunday, October 20, 1:00 PM, at the UST Quadricentennial Pavilion in Manila City.