Indonesian men settle for tie at Chess Olympics

JAKARTA (JP): Indonesia's chess players only managed to force a 2-2 tie in the men's event against Mexico while the women's team succumbed to Slovakia 2.5-0.5 at the 34th Chess Olympics in Istanbul.

The result on the men's side was disappointing as the team had defeated Turkey on Thursday. Earlier on Saturday, Indonesia bowed out to Japan.

Grand Master (GM) Utut Adianto beat R. Espinosa in the 23rd move of a tense match where Utut sacrificed his knights, bishops and rooks in his attempt to corner Espinosa's king.

GM Edi Handoko tied with Gonzalez Garcia in the 12th move when they became trapped in a complicated formation.

Meanwhile, Ruben Gunawan's king bowed before Estrada Nieto's in the 46th move after several evasion attempts.

International Master (MI) Danny Juswanto gave Indonesia a breather when he forced J. Russek to agree to a draw after they finished their 38th move.

After Monday's results, the Indonesian men collected 7.5 VPs and were in 34th place. Germany and Hungary shared the lead with 10.5 VPs.

Indonesia met Latvia in the fourth round on Tuesday.

Unfortunately, the Indonesian women's team was beaten by Slovakia. At least, the Indonesian women played more moves than their male compatriots.

Redgina Pokorna beat Upi D. Tamim in the 46th move.

Ai Zakiah grabbed the only points when she tied her match against Elena Mrovava in the 48th move.

Evie Lindawati's king had to kneel before Elena Chorvatona after finishing their 57th move.

Collecting 4 VPs, the Indonesian women are currently in 47-56 place. The Netherlands and China lead the pack with 8 VPs.

The Indonesian women faced Finland on Tuesday. (nvn)