Chimkovitch Coolers Merlin, Claims Chip Lead

Claiming the overnight chip lead is always a highly sought after affair, especially at the EPT. Anthony Chimkovitch from Belgium, who finished 20th in this very event in 2016 and 114th last year, has set himself up as the top contender to add the chipleader badge to his name after a massive clash with Pierre Merlin.

It all started with a raise from the Belgian in early position. Dean Clay called one seat over and Pierre Merlin called from the big blind. On the flop, Merlin checked, Chimkovitch bet 3,600, Clay called, Merlin check-raised to 14,400, Chimkovitch called and Clay folded.

The turn brought the and Merlin continued his aggression with a bet of 25,500. Chimkovitch shoved all in and Merlin instantly called it off for around 37,000 more.

Pierre Merlin:
Anthony Chimkovitch:

It was a brutal cooler for Merlin, who could only hope for a chop on the river. Instead, it was the and Merlin's tournament came to a sudden end. Chimkovitch, on the other hand, stacked heaps on top of his already massive stack and sits at 330,000 with fifteen minutes to go in the day.