By: George Torno
ONIC Philippines took a massive step toward securing an upper bracket slot in the MPL Philippines Season 16 playoffs after sweeping Smart Omega, 2-0, in their final week clash on Friday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
The Sonics improved to 8-5 following the victory, tightening the race for the No. 2 seed behind Team Liquid Philippines (8-4) and placing themselves in prime position to clinch an outright upper bracket berth.
Head coach Anthony “Ynot” Senedrin credited the team’s composure and clarity for their strong performance.
“I think mas maganda yung pasok namin sa match na ‘yon, in terms of kung ano ba yung gusto namin mangyari, kung ano ba yung goal ng team,” Ynot said.
“Good mindset translates to good plays, calmer pace and then aggressive parin pero having the right timing,” he added.
In Game 1, ONIC capitalized on the early miscues of James “Jeymz” Gloria’s Lapu-Lapu, giving Grant “Kelra” Pillas’ Obsidia the momentum to snowball.
By the 13th-minute Lord dance, Borris “Brusko” Parro’s Kalea ignited a crucial clash that saw him pick off Czedrick “Super Yoshi” Romero’s Gatotkaca.
Moments later, Frince “Super Frince” Ramirez unleashed a devastating Feathered Air Strike from his Pharsa, sealing a 3-for-2 trade that secured Game 1 for ONIC.
Game 2 saw Brusko once again at the center of ONIC’s dominance. His timely initiations neutralized Omega’s aggression, allowing the Sonics to build a 5K gold lead by the 12th minute despite trailing in kills.
At the 22-minute mark, ONIC’s map control culminated in a decisive Lord dance, with Duane “Kelra” Pillas’s Wanwan activating the Crossbow of Tang to eliminate two Omega heroes.
King “K1NGKONG” Perez’s Fredrinn followed up by chasing down Super Yoshi’s Kalea, clearing the path for ONIC to storm through and complete the sweep.
With momentum on their side, ONIC aims to solidify their upper bracket campaign when they face TNC Pro Team on October 12, still at the Green Sun Hotel.
