Michael Concio Jr. turned back fellow International Master Azarya Jodi Setyaki of Indonesia to keep his grip of the share of the lead after six rounds of the Asian Zonal 3.3 Chess Championships Thursday, May 6.
Concio, 15, won after 55 moves of a Ruy Lopez duel to stay at the helm with Indonesian Mohamad Ervan with five points apiece.
The result kept the Cavite-based player within reach of claiming one of the two spots to the World Cup 2021 scheduled from Aug. 1 to 28.
IM Daniel Quizon, meanwhile, fought to a draw with IM Sean Winshand Cuhendi of Indonesia in 40 moves of a Bishop’s Opening to slip from the lead group to the five-man chase pack with 4.5 points.
Filipino Ellan Asuela trounced Malaysian Kai En Keok to share eighth spot with four points with two others.