By: Jan Marcus Montevirgen
No matter where Liquid ECHO goes, their fans are always by their side, showing unwavering support.
During the 2024 Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Mid-Season Cup (MSC) at the AMAZON Arena in Riyadh, Filipino fans from across the city gathered to cheer passionately for Team Liquid ECHO, especially during their intense match against HomeBois.
Jaypee “Jaypee” Cruz couldn’t hide his excitement seeing the arena filled with Filipino supporters, a sight he didn’t anticipate.
“Sobrang saya po kasi grabe po yung support nila sa amin lalo na sa laban ng HomeBois. Ang ingay po ng crowd. Tapos, nakakatuwa kasi kahit dito sa Riyadh, ang daming Pinoy na nanonood,” Jaypee shared with a wide smile.
The fans not only cheered inside the arena but also showered the players with gifts, including Sanford “Sanford” Vinuya who received a special gift of food that brought a smile to his face.
“Ako po nakatanggap ng pagkain. Binigyan nila ako ng apat na pack ng chicken skin,” Sanford happily recounted.
Known for his selective taste, Sanford’s preferences at buffets sometimes posed a challenge during their preparations.
“Nakakatuwa po kasi minsan may mga ayaw ako na ulam sa buffet. So may makakain na po ako kapag hindi ko trip yung ulam. Tsaka po pala sa scrim namin, nagpadala naman yung kapatid ni EJJ (Mcdo Delivery). Yung friend [din] po ni Boss Tictac. Nakakatuwa po,” he added.
Despite not being in Riyadh, Team Liquid ECHO hosted a watch party for their fans in the Philippines at Eastwood Mall Cinema 6 in Quezon City on Friday.
Even with heavy rain in the area, fans packed the venue, solidifying the team’s status as the new crowd darlings.
Coach Harold “Tictac” Reyes expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support.
“Siguro po hindi namin iniisip na kami ay ‘crowd darlings.’ Basta nagpapasalamat po kami sa lahat ng sumusuporta sa amin lalo na po sa mga dumalo sa watch party,” Tictac humbly remarked.