By: Jerod Orcullo
ONIC Philippines secured their spot in the MPL Philippines Season 15 playoffs with a dominant 2-0 sweep over Team Falcons on Friday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
In the opening game of the series, ONIC head coach Anthony “YnoT” Senedrin surprised many by selecting a hero combination commonly seen in ranked games — Kalea and Luo Yi.
The duo of Frince “SuperFrince” Ramirez and Borris “Brusko” Parro fully capitalized on this combo, finishing the game in a swift 11 minutes and 31 seconds. Brusko was named game MVP, boasting a 2/3/10 KDA.
During the post-game interview, YnoT shared that the lineup had been practiced beforehand. He emphasized that he gave his players the freedom to execute and synchronize their composition effectively.
“Of course, it’s something that we’ve practiced a lot. I mean, ever since Suyou has been our hero, definitely the Luo Yi. I think si Frince na yung pinaka, kumbaga namesake nya na yun,” YnoT explained.
“It was only a matter of really the execution and them making sure na yun nga nagco-connect-connect sila. So it’s a very good job.”
In contrast to their first-round match-up, the “Super Family” ensured that Team Falcons had no chance to recover and mount a reverse sweep.
Grant Duane “Kelra” Pillas reminded everyone of his prowess in Game 2, unleashing a spectacular Beatrix performance. He led ONIC PH with eight kills, three assists, and just one death over the course of an 18-minute and 32-second match.
With both teams competing in the ESL Snapdragon Pro Series, ONIC PH’s next match will be against TNC Pro Team on April 25, during Week 7 of the season.
Meanwhile, Team Falcons will aim to bounce back as they face Twisted Minds this Saturday at 5:00 PM at the same venue.
