National Women's Chess Championship: Mary Ann Gomes takes half-point lead

Mary Ann Gomes took the sole lead in the 10th round of the ongoing National Women's Chess Championship held in Jaipur.

Mary Ann Gomes (8.5) moved into sole lead ahead of her final-round clash against P. V. Nandhidhaa (7.5) after overnight leader M. Mahalakshmi stayed at 7.5 points (File Image)

Second seed Mary Ann Gomes inched closer to regaining the National women's chess title after beating S. Meenakshi in the 10th and penultimate round here on Sunday.

Previous round report: Mary, Mahalakshmi share lead

Mary (8.5) moved into sole lead ahead of her final-round clash against P. V. Nandhidhaa (7.5) after M. Mahalakshmi, the other overnight leader stayed at 7.5 points following her defeat to J. Saranya on the second board.

Mary’s nearest rival is Bhakti Kulkarni (8) who faces Saranya in the
final round.