OLYMPIAD. FIDE Master Sander Severino banners the Philippines in the ongoing 1st Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities in Belgrade, Serbia. The Philippines rolled to its third straight win on Wednesday (Feb. 1, 2023). (Contributed photo)
MANILA – The Philippines rolled to its third straight win on Wednesday to keep its share of the lead in the ongoing 1st Chess Olympiad for People with Disabilities in Belgrade, Serbia.
Bannered by FIDE Master Sander Severino, the Philippines defeated Serbia 2, 3.5-0.5, to remain in the company of India and Poland at the top of the standings with six points.
Severino delivered the first point when he defeated Mile Bjelanovic in 44 moves of Caro Kann defense.
National Master (NM) Henry Roger Lopez and Stefan Mitrovic split the points on board two after 42 moves of Old Indian Defense.
Playing-coach, NM James Infiesto beat Luka Bulatovic in 57 moves of Bishop Opening while NM Darry Bernardo conquered Vladan Petrovic in 42 moves of Caro Kann defense to complete the Filipinos' victory in the tournament held at the Crown Plaza Hotel.
In other results, India outclassed Israel, 3-1, while Poland downed FIDE, 3.5-0.5. to remain perfect after three rounds.
The Philippines' next assignment on Thursday is Poland, represented by Grandmaster Marcin Tazbir, FM Marcin Molenda, Pawel Piekielny and Piotr Dukaczewski.
The Philippines' earlier victories were over Uzbekistan, 3.5-0.5, and the Czechia (Czech Republic), 2.5-1.5. (PNA)
