By: Jerod Orcullo
Benedict “Bennyqt” Gonzales led TNC Pro Team to a crucial 2-0 sweep over Smart Omega in MPL Philippines Season 15, bringing his team one step closer to securing a playoff spot. The match took place on Saturday at the Green Sun Hotel in Makati.
Smart Omega made a change to its lineup by reintroducing Joshua “Ch4knu” Mangilog in place of Czedrick “SuperYoshi” Romero.
While fans were eager to see Ch4knu and Tristan “Yawi” Cabrera continue their long-standing rivalry, it was Bennyqt who ultimately made the biggest impact in both games of the series.
In the post-game interview, Deejay “ImbaDeejay” Astibe admitted that TNC was surprised by Ch4knu’s return but noted that SuperYoshi had a more significant impact, as all of Omega’s game wins came with him in the lineup.
“Hindi eh, nagulat nalang din kami nung binigay na yung roster kanina, hindi namin expected, kala namin si Yoshi,” ImbaDeejay said.
“Siguro ano, mas okay kay Yoshi kasi kung titignan din natin yung stats nila, yung four wins nila, si Yoshi naglaro eh. Tapos siguro sa chemistry din, mas maganda yung gameplay nila pag si Yoshi.”
TNC came out strong in the opening game, dominating Smart Omega’s map control. Omega managed only two eliminations compared to TNC’s 14 in a 15-minute and 18-second game.
Omega put up a stronger fight in the second match, but Bennyqt’s Granger unleashed relentless fire, earning him MVP honors with a flawless 10/0/3 KDA.
The “Phoenix Army” aims to extend their current winning streak to three when they face Twisted Minds this Sunday at the same venue.
Meanwhile, Smart Omega will face Team Liquid Philippines on the same day in what promises to be another tough challenge.
