TEAM HERALD
PANJIM: Goan CM Leon Luke Mendonca (1327) remains a medal contender after taking a lead of one point by winning his last game in the seventh round and remaining unbeaten with seven points at the ongoing Under-9 National Chess Junior Championship at Pondicherry, on Saturday.
Leon defeated Arya Bhkata (1435) of West Bengal. Sunday’s eight round match is very crucial for 26th seeded Leon as he is clashing with the top seeded and higher rated player FM Praggnandhaa R (1969) of Tamil Nadu, who is on six points and presently on third position.
Gunjal Chopdekar (1440) won against Aditi Mohanty (1255) of Orisa and now she is on joint second position with six points. She has also kept hope of medal for Goa live.
Alaya D’Cruz secured four points. Alaina Pereia and Tanvi Hadkonkar remained on four points as they lost in last round. Charuta Shetye and Sanvi Gaonkar are on three points and Mayuri Chari on 2.5 points.
