Matei Garcia emerged triumphant in the final game of the Championship series against James Hutchinson, taking his first Irish title.

Playing as white, Matei established the larger moyo in the opening and used James’s invasion to solidify his gains. When Matei countered with his own invasion, James needed to kill to balance the game but was unable to prevent the invading stones from gaining life, and eventually resigned the game.

Matei will defend his newly-won title in the Top 8 at the end of January.