The ongoing Eldoret Open Chess Championships continue to register upsets, as another unlikely result came in the second round. This time, it was Candidate Master (CM) Ian Mutuge who bit the dust after falling to Givens Amunga.Going into the tournament, Mutuge, a Strathmore University student, was the sixth-ranked player with a rating of 1959. Mutuge has been on an upward trajectory over the last year, and he represented the country at last year’s World Chess Olympiad in Hungary for the first time ever. It was in Hungary that he earned his CM title.##NAJAVA_MECA_8657216##However, Amunga had no respect for his opponent’s credentials, outplaying Mutuge. Faced with losing either his knight or queen, Mutuge threw in the towel.Kenya’s top seed, Hawi Kaloki, completely obliterated veteran Philip Singe in just 14 moves to pick up his first win on the board. Kaloki had earned a walkover in round one after his opponent failed to show up.The tournament’s top seed, Nyolla Wasswa from Uganda, showcased his mastery against Atem Gak from Kakuma Refugee Camp.FKF Women’s Premier League heats up as second leg kicks off with crucial showdownsThe fiery match between Toboso Bryan and Methu Joseph drew 45 live spectators. Toboso’s daring Dutch Defense stunned the audience but backfired after Methu’s relentless attacks left him scrambling before resigning.In the ladies’ section, Women Candidate Master (WCM) Jully Mutisya pulled off an incredible draw against Cherono Mercy in a nerve-wracking king-and-pawn endgame. Cherono, who was on the brink of victory, faltered under time pressure, allowing Mutisya’s unwavering composure to salvage half a point.Elizabeth Cassidy outplayed rising star Zuri Kaloki, winning her second point. Cassidy’s precise piece placement and merciless execution were a masterclass in technique, leaving no room for Zuri to counter.Sunday FKF Premier League action: Six matches set, Homeboyz host Gor Mahia in key clash
