Onic had been reeling from three consecutive losses to start the season, but the adverse situation gave John “Perkziva” Sumawan the chance for a comeback performance in the MPL Philippines.
And he did not disappoint in his debut.
In Game 1, the former RSG Philippines roamer executed decisive set-up plays, especially in the late game, helping Onic complete a wipeout and secure the opener.
Perkziva’s long absence from the MPL worked in his favor, as unfamiliarity played a factor in Onic’s sweep of the three-time MPL PH champions.
“Maganda ang performance niya. Yan ang advantage kapag hindi mo pa nakikita ang laro ng isang player kasi talagang hindi mo inaasahan.
“Kahit na alam namin ang hero na ginagamit niya, ang decision-making niya ay hindi pa namin talaga nakuha kasi ito ang unang beses niyang maglaro ngayong season,” said Blacklist International head coach Aniel “Master the Basics” Jiandani about Perkziva’s impact for Onic.
It was not surprising that Perkziva offered Onic a masterful performance. Afterall, his motivation runs deep as someone who was sent to the MDL last season and was left scrambling for a team during the off season.
“Last season kasi MDL ako. Yung motivation ko papatunayan ko sa sarili na di ako pang MDL. Sa oras na makaupo ako ulit sa stage ng MPL, gagawin ko ang lahat para mabigay yung best ko,” he said.
The upset win over Blacklist did not only create momentum for Onic, it also provided a big boost in confidence among the Hedgehogs, especially for Perkziva.
“Sobrang halaga po ng panalo para magkaconfidence kami, lalo na para sa’kin kasi bagong salang lang ako. Siguro sa mga next matches mas tatapang na ako. Tsaka sa momentum din,” said Perkziva.
The 19-year old roamer, however, is convinced that he still has more to offer despite the rousing win.
“Marami pa pong butas yung laro ko. Malayo pa siguro sa full potential ko.”
Onic will continue to surge ahead with a hungry and motivated Perkziva in tow.
