The last two semi-finals in the KO competitions both took place this last week. First up was the match between Swansea University B and Morriston B in the Under 1800 section for the Richard E Jones Trophy. Although the Morriston team managed draws on the top two boards the University was the stronger on the bottom two and emerged the winners 3-1. They now go forward to meet Castell-Nedd Senators in the final. In the other match in the Under 1400 section, for the A.D. Nicholson Shield, De la Beche B were at home to neighbours Upper Killay Harriers. This was one of these cup matches in which honours were shared; in this case with De la Beche winning on boards 2 & 3 and Harriers winning on boards 1 & 4. There has to be a winner, however, and so after applying “Bottom Board Elimination” De la Beche win 2-1 and progress to the final where they will meet Briton Ferry Brunel.

The Finals are:

Stanley Fortt Memorial Cup : White Knights A v Swansea University A (no grading restrictions)

Richard E Jones : Castell-Nedd Senators v Swansea University B (players graded 1800 or under)

A.D. Nicholson Shield : Briton Ferry Brunel v De la Beche B (players graded 1400 or under)

The finals night was original scheduled to take place at Morriston Chess Club on Tuesday 15th May but had to be rearranged to Monday 21st May. However, two of the six teams have deemed this date unsuitable. We wait to see what is decided.

However, before these matches are played the final round of the West Wales Closed Championship takes place this Wednesday 9th May at the Upper Killay Chess Club. Hot favourite to take home the E.J. Clarke Trophy is Ian Jones of Morriston but he needs at least a draw if does not want to share!

04/05/2018