By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
Fnatic ONIC Philippines made history by capturing their first-ever championship title, triumphing over Aurora in a thrilling seven-game series, 4-3, during the grand finals of MPL Philippines Season 14 on Sunday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
FNOP ensured they finished at the top this time, following last season’s heartbreaking fifth-place finish.
The pivotal moment for the Sonics came when Aurora attempted to secure the game during a crucial Lord push in the bottom lane at the 20-minute and 35-second mark, but FNOP defended it effectively. They then took down four members of RORA, leaving Jan “Domeng” Del Mundo (Clint) to defend their base turret before ending the game moments later.
“Tumaas yung BP ko kanina eh. No joke. Naramdaman ko talaga kaninang Game 7. Di ko masulit kanina yung [excitement] sa stage eh. Kase binabagalan ko lang yung galaw ko pero damn, lala,” said head coach Anthony “YnoT” Senedrin during the post-match interview.
“Nakikitang ko lang kase yung mga emotions nila kanina eh. Si Brusko sabog iyak kanina, si Super Frince hindi na nakatayo. Lahat eh, sobrang emotional. Pero chapter 1 done. Onto the next, ESL Snapdragon and then M6. Dynasty habol natin eh,” he continued.
(C) MPL PH
King “K1NGKONG” Perez (Suyou) and Frince “Super Frince” Ramirez (Yve) opened the best-of-seven series dominantly, with both players earning match MVP honors for their stellar performances in Games 1 and 2, respectively.
Renejay “Renejay” Barcarse (Gatotkaca) refused to let their opponent secure the crucial match point during Game 3, finishing with a KDA of one kill, two deaths, and 10 assists.
In Game 4, Duanne “Kelra” Pillas excelled on Harith with a record of six kills, one death, and five assists, guiding FNOP to a match point at 3-1.
However, Aurora refused to back down in Games 5 and 6, with Kenneth “Yue” Tadeo (Cecilion) and Jonard “Demonkite” Caranto (Alpha) delivering standout performances when it mattered most, tying the series at three games apiece.
This historic victory also marked the first championship title for all ONIC PH players in their respective MLBB careers.
Along with the trophy, Fnatic ONIC Philippines will take home $35,000, while Aurora will receive $20,000.
