By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
Smart Omega outlasted Blacklist International 2-1 to secure their fifth win in the MPL Philippines Season 14 on Friday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
In a closely contested match, Smart Omega’s victory was anchored on the consistent performance of Andrew “Andoryuuu” Flora (Julian) and Nowee “Ryota” Macasa (Edith).
Andoryuuu, in particular, delivered a flawless performance in the decisive Game 3, finishing the game without a single death.
The team’s success was also facilitated by Joshua “Ch4knu” Mangilog (Minotaur), who provided ample space for his teammates to maneuver and strike freely from the backlines.
Andoryuuu and Ryota combined for a stellar Game 3 performance with a KDA of five kills, 12 assists, and one death. Meanwhile, Ch4knu contributed with seven kills and two deaths.
“Based sa mga past na laban nila (Blacklist International), mas maganda yung laro nila ngayon. Unti-unting nag-iimprove sila, nagiging [as] one na sila. Siguro konti pa ,pero feeling ko kaya na nila sa susunod,” said coach Lemuel “Lembot” Lucban during the post-match interview.
In Game 1, Smart Omega gave the Codebreakers a tough challenge by controlling the map throughout.
This dominance allowed Jomari “Jowm” Pingol (Harith) to farm effectively and secure the match point in just 12 minutes and 23 seconds. Jowm ended the opener with a flawless KDA of six kills and six assists.
However, John “Perkz” Sumawan (Lolita) refused to let Blacklist International go down without a fight. His game-winning play in Game 2 tied the series at one-all.
Despite being on the brink of defeat, Perkz’s pivotal performance during the 12-minute Lord skirmish turned the game around.
His three-man Implosion play allowed his team to push through the mid-lane and secure victory.
Smart Omega will next face Aurora on Saturday at 7:30 PM. Meanwhile, Blacklist International will take on Fnatic ONIC Philippines at 5:00 PM.
Both matches will take place at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
