THE ATENEO Women’s Chess team concluded the fifth day of the University of Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 85 on a high note after beating the University of the Philippines (UP) Fighting Maroons. The tournament was held earlier today at the Far Eastern University (FEU) Tech Gym in the City of Manila. 

It was a nail-biting affair for the Blue and White as they triumphed against the UP Fighting Maroons with a final score of 3-1. Following the result at the end of the day, the Women’s Team improved to a 2-0-2 (win-draw-loss) standing.

Looking to continue their winning streak after defeating the De La Salle University Lady Woodpushers last Wednesday, the Blue Eagles had a shaky start with two consecutive draws. Blue Eagles Laila Nadera and Glesit Tatoy tied with Fighting Maroons Precious Ferrer and Jarel Lacambra, respectively. 

To avoid settling with a draw for the overall matchup, the Blue Eagles fought hard on the next boards to pick up two wins for Ateneo. Team Captain Alexis Oseña and Kristine Flores outplayed UP’s Justin Macapuno and Jallen Agra on boards three and four, respectively. 

“I was not nervous waiting for the result of Alexis’ match, because aside from trusting each other, we know that we are prepared,” Flores said about her initial reaction after securing the first win of the day. “I am extremely happy [about the win], because my performance is better compared to the previous season,” she shared.

The Women’s Chess Team will play their next match on Wednesday, November 23, against the defending champion National University Lady Bulldogs. Meanwhile, the Men’s Chess Team will have a short break as their next bout against the Adamson Soaring Falcons will be next Sunday, November 27. Both games are scheduled at 2:00 PM at the FEU Tech Gym in the City of Manila.