MANILA, Philippines---The San Juan Predators and the Iloilo Kisela Knights are set to meet in the Professional Chess Association of the Philippines-PCAP grand finals dubbed as GM Wesley So Cup to be held virtually Wednesday night, August 4, 2021 at chess.com platform.
Northern kings San Juan, led by GM Oliver Barbosa, GM Viktor Moskalenko, IM Ricardo De Guzman, WIM Jan Jodilyn Fronda, FM Arden Reyes and NM Michael Gotel, will clash against the southern rulers Iloilo, spearheaded by GM Rogelio "Joey" Antonio Jr., GM Hovhannes Gabuzyan, WFM Cherry Ann Mejia, NM Fritz Bryan Porras, NM John Michael Silvederio and NM Cesar Mariano.
The Predators, who are shooting for their first-ever PCAP title, earlier swept the defending champion Laguna Heroes, 12-9 and 13.5-7.5 in 2 sets, Saturday night, July 31, 2021 en route to the Northern Conference Finals crown.
"The win versus Laguna was closer than it seems. The Laguna Heroes is a formidable and talent-rich team and could have won over us at any given day. It is through constant training, positive mindset and a touch of good fortune that we Predators were able to prevail this time around. The win really belongs to the coach, the players and its supporters." said San Juan Predators Team Owner Michael Angelo Ong Chua.
The Kisela Knights, for their part, beat the Cordova Dagami Warriors, 13-8 and 15.5-5.5 in 2 sets to conquer the southern division.
"Congratulations Team Iloilo for superb performance during the crucial match tonight against leading team in the southern division, Cordova! The iron man of chess is back - key wins by GM Joey Antonio and Karl Ochoa. Thank you for the continued support of our partner, Iloilo Science and Technology University, Pres. Muyong and VPEA Mabaquiao. My personal kudos to IKK management team - Hyubs P. Canto, Gil Libu, Chiri Mia - you all are incredible - can’t thank you enough for all your hard works. Iloilo ang banwa ko! Our win tonight is heartily dedicated to all Ilonggos and Guimarasnon - bato, kaya ta ini! Next stop, grand final, stay tune." said Iloilo Kisela Knights Team Owner Leo Sotaridona.