Four teams still in contention for three NCAA chess semis slots

A DOGFIGHT among Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU), Jose Rizal University (JRU), University of Perpetual Help (UPHSD) and College of St. Benilde for the last three Final Four slots (CSB) is looming in today’s ninth and final round in NCAA Season 100 Chess at the Ayala Malls Manila Bay. LPU and JRU are currently Nos.

2 and 3 with 21.5 and 20 points, respectively, while UPHSD and CSB are at joint No. 4 with 19.



5 points apiece. But only three will advance after San Beda booked the first semis seat and the twice-to-beat incentive that went with it. LPU is paired with Mapua, JRU with Arellano University, UPHSD with San Sebastian and CSB with San Beda.

The final elimination round was supposed to be played yesterday but was rescheduled due to Typhoon Pepito. “We’re hoping to make it to the Final Four for the second time under my watch,” said JRU coach and FIDE Master Nelson Mariano III. The Final Four is set tomorrow while an extra semis game, if necessary, is slated for Wednesday.

If not, the one-game finals will be played that day. — Joey Villar.