THE ATENEO Women’s Chess Team began the second stage of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) Season 86 Chess Tournament with a hardfought effort, finishing in a deadlock with the Far Eastern University (FEU) Lady Woodpushers, 1 (2) – 1(2). The contest was held earlier today at the FEU Institute of Technology Building in the City of Manila.

This result puts the Blue Eagles at a win-draw-loss record of 2-2-3 with a total of six match points.

Today’s lineup for the Katipunan-based squad consisted of Jiessel Marino, Elayza Villa, Kristine Flores, and Glesit Tatoy in boards one, two, three, and four respectively. 

To start off proceedings, rookie Villa conceded the victory to FEU’s Mary Joy Tan. Meanwhile, in boards three and four, Team Captain Flores and veteran Tatoy both endured lengthy bouts to capture draws against Mhage Sebastian and FEU Team Captain Bea Mendoza respectively.

Bagging the Blue and White’s lone victory today was veteran Marino, who delivered once again, defeating Glysen Derotas.

When asked about his thoughts on the team’s performance, Coach Yves Rañola emphasized the team’s need to improve their decision making under time pressure. “D’un sila [kailangang pagbutihin], nagsama-sama ang nerbiyos at saka ang pressure. Minsan, ang mga reminder ko, sa totoong laban, nakakalimutan nila,” Rañola stated.

(That’s where [they need to improve], their nervousness and the pressure comes together. Sometimes they forget my reminders during the actual games.)

Despite not capturing a win, Rañola remained optimistic about the team’s chances moving forward, sharing that he believed the Blue Eagles would be able to adjust accordingly and do better for succeeding rounds.

Looking to get back in the win column, the Ateneo Women’s Chess Team will face the UST Lady Woodpushers next Saturday, November 11. Meanwhile, the Men’s Chess Team will return to action tomorrow, with them also set to face UST. Both games are scheduled at 1:00 PM in the same venue.

STANDINGS

1. FEU 13.0 [19.0]
2. NU 11.0 [18.5]
3. Ateneo 6.0 [14.5]
4. DLSU 6.0 [12.0]
5. UP 6.0 [12.0]
6. AdU 3.0 [10.5]
7. UST 3.0 [9.5]