Top seeded International Master Tania Sachdev (Air India) won her game against Shruthi K of Karnataka in the Ramratna 42nd National Women's Challenger Chess Tournament here today.
At the end of the second round, 22 players led the table with 2 points each in the tournament in which players of different strengths and of different age groups are taking part - from 56 year-old Jayashree to eight-year old Siya Sagar.
Playing with black pieces, Tania answered with Queen's Indian Defense against her lesser fancied rival. The game was heading for draw with opposite colour bishops, but Tania used all her experience to outwit her opponent in 78 moves.
Second- seeded Woman Grand Master Soumya Swaminathan, playing with white pieces, against Bala Kannamma P attacked on the queen side and created a passed pawn on B file. She then forced her rival to sacrifice her rook to win the game in 50 moves.
Third-seeded WGM Mary Ann Gomes was forced to spit the point with Vantika Agrawal in English opening.
The top 8 finishers in the tournament, carrying Rs 3 lakh in prize money, will get to play at National Premier which is likely to be conducted at Darjeeling from October 10.
