The Armenians put up a spirited show in the 14^th and final round by thrashing a strong Georgia by 3.5 to 0.5. This brilliant show of strength took them to a tie of silver medal with the Russians.

Russia, one of the tournament favourites, have a lot to learn from their three shock defeats.

The Russians struggled against China in the last round and Alexander Grischuk came through to attain a 3 to 1 victory. Russia were awarded the silver medal on superior tie breaks.

Ukraine defeated France by 3 to 1 while Russia defeated China by the same margin to take their tally to 36.5 points and tie for the second spot with Armenia.

Ukraine played all out when a 2 -2 draw would suffice for victory. Ukraine dominated the lower boards with Volokitin Andrei and Eljanov Pavel scoring vital wins that took them to the winners’ podium.   India attained 2.5-1.5 victory over Bulgaria after three draws by Anand, Sasikrian and Sandipan Chanda.

Abhijit Kunte scored a brilliant victory and guided India to a crucial victory. The winning margin was adequate for India to clinch a berth for the World Chess Championship. India finally finished sixth with 34 points.

China took the women’s title with a tally of 31 points while USA piped Russia at the post with 28 points.

Russia and Georgia tied for third spot with 27.5 points.

USA thrashed Vietnam by 2.5 to 0.5 while Russia could only manage 2-1 victory over France.

Russia were awarded the bronze on superior tie breaks. The Indian women lost a crucial match to England by 1 to 2. Grandmaster Koneru Humpy lost to Harrient Hunt and this turned the match in favour of the England. Indian eves finished 9^th overall and just missed qualification for the world team championship. Viswanathan Anand said:   “We have attained considerable improvement and our qualification to World Team Championship is great.”