By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
Aurora made a thunderous debut in MPL Philippines Season 14, sweeping Blacklist International in a stunning opener on Friday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
Jonard “Demonkite” Caranto’s Fanny was a constant threat to Blacklist throughout Game 2, leading Aurora to victory.
The pivotal moment came during a 14th-minute skirmish when Demonkite emerged as the clean-up crew, securing the first Maniac of the season on Day 1.
The 21-year-old jungler delivered a dominant performance with his new team, racking up 10 kills, one assist, and a single death.
In Game 1, Aurora’s dominance was just as evident, but this time it was Kenneth “Yue” Tadeo’s Zhask that caused trouble for the Tier One-backed squad.
Blacklist struggled to find the right positioning in each teamfight, allowing Yue to shine.
Yue was named match MVP in Game 1, finishing with a flawless stat line of two kills, five assists, and perfect kill participation as the game ended with a love set, 7-0.
“Siguro ano, mas nailalabas na ng players yung laro nila. Then, expected naman, kahit ano sigurong team na na-experience ko, kapag bago yung lineup hindi talaga madaling mabuo yung chemistry,” said Aurora head coach Aniel “Master the Basics” Jiandani.
“Kaya yung both teams, sa amin tsaka sa Blacklist, expected talaga na bago talaga lahat as in. Hindi pa ‘ganon kabuo yung chemistry pero yun nga mas naging mas maganda yung chemistry namin ngayon kaya mas nanaig kami,” he added.
For Blacklist International, Michael “MP the King” Endino’s Nolan tried to mount a comeback in Game 2.
Despite his efforts, it wasn’t enough as Demonkite and Aurora proved too strong. MP the King dealt half of Blacklist’s final kill score in Game 2, which ended 6-12. He finished with a KDA of three kills, two assists, and two deaths.
Aurora will next face RSG Philippines on Sunday at 7:30 p.m., while Blacklist International will look to bounce back against Fnatic ONIC PH at 5:00 p.m. Both matches will take place at the same venue.
