Demchenko won an all-Russian tie versus Evgeny Romonov today to move to 7.5 points.

After co-leaders Rauf Mamedov and Vincent Keymer drew, the win gives Demchenko the overall lead by half a point.

Demchenko remains unbeaten at the tournament in Reykjavik, winning six of nine matches.

His win was the only victory recorded on the top eight boards today.

Azerbaijan's Mamedov - who drew with Demchenko in the previous round - and German teenager Keymer are in turn half a point ahead of eight players chasing them.

That includes German Daniel Fridman, Italy's Daniele Vocaturo and Romania's Boddan-Daniel Deac, who all enjoyed potentially significant wins today.

The tournament is being played using the Swiss system, and is set to conclude on Sunday (September 5) after 11 rounds.