IM Michael Concio Jr and FM Mark Jay Bacojo eyeing on the title in the PSC-NCFP Men's Selection Chess Championship Grand Finals
IM Michael Concio Jr and FM Mark Jay Bacojo are both making significant strides in the PSC-NCFP Men's Selection Chess Championship Grand Finals. Currently, they share an impressive score of 6.5 out of 9 rounds in the 13-round tournament. This performance puts them in prime position among the ten titled players competing for the coveted title.
IM Michael Concio Jr is riding a wave of momentum in the tournament after fresh off with his impressive victory at the Philippine National Junior Championship last week.
His recent triumph has undoubtedly bolstered his confidence, and his current performance in the grand finals is a testament to his growing prowess in the chess world. Concio's success is characterized by his strategic acumen and ability to remain composed under pressure, qualities that have helped him secure his position as a top contender for the title.
IM Concio on the move with IM Ricardo De Guzman
In the diagram above, Concio played a nice 28...c4! pawn destruction and the game continued 29. 29. a5 cxb3 30. axb6 bxc2 31. Kd2 a6 32. h4 Ke7 33. g4 d5 34. c4 dxe4 35. Kxc2 a5 36. c5 Kd7 0-1
On the other hand, FM Mark Jay Bacojo has been equally formidable, bringing his unique tactical acumen and creativity to the board. His indifferent approach to pressure situations and ability to convert challenging positions into favorable outcomes have been pivotal to his success thus far. His adaptability and focus in every match have secured him a top position alongside Concio, making this a nail-biting finale
FM Mark Jay Bacojo on the move with IM Roland Nolte
In the diagram above, Lim played 20. Ba5? miscalculated the tactical fireworks after 21...Qxa5 22. Rxc4 d5! 23. Rc2 (If 23. Rh4 g5! -+) Qxa4 -+
The result of the latest (9th) round
The ranking after 9th round
Tomorrow, in the 10th round, IM Concio will compete against FM Christian Gian Karlo Arca, while FM Bacojo is set to go up against FM John Merill Jacutina.
As the tournament progresses, all eyes are on Concio to see if he can convert this momentum into a championship victory. With just a few rounds remaining, his quest for the title continues, and his fans, along with the wider chess community, eagerly await the outcome.
Chess has always been more than just a game to us; it is a journey of self-discovery, a test of character, and a source of endless fascination and joy.
Thanks for reading and good luck to our chess and life journey.
by Coach Gerald Ferriol