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| Photo from MPL Philippines |
by Drew Malihan
MAKATI - Playoff appearance secured!
Fnatic ONIC Philippines clinched their postseason ticket with a commanding 2-0 sweep over defending champions Team Liquid PH on Friday at the Green Sun Hotel.
Coach Anthony "Ynot" Senedrin's squad extended their winning streak to eight matches, surpassing the seven straight wins set by RSG Philippines in Season 9 and their own record from Season 13 before the Fnatic partnership.
Justine "Zaida" Palma was activated for the second straight matchday, starting ahead of fellow jungler Karl Gabriel "KarlTzy" Nepomuceno.
King Cyric "K1NGKONG" Perez led the Hedgehogs with an impressive performance on Fanny, racking up seven kills and an assist, including key takedowns of Alston "Sanji" Pabico's Zhask in the fifth minute and Zaida's Ling near the 17th minute.
Despite the defeat, Benedict "Bennyqt" Gonzales carried Team Liquid PH with four kills and an assist on Roger, while Sanford "Sanford" Vinuya contributed two kills and two assists.
In Game 2, Duane "Kelra" Pillas shone with his Clint, posting an 8/1/6 KDA in 19 minutes as FNOP narrowly edged out Liquid PH.
However, it was Frince "Super Frince" Ramirez and his signature Luo Yi that made the difference for Fnatic ONIC. His strategic use of the Diversion ultimate created crucial saves and ganks, preventing the Cavalry from tying the series in the late game.
Although Jann Kirk "Kirk" Gutierrez's Edith was picked off, FNOP turned the tide in the dying minutes as Kelra and K1NGKONG each scored two kills, forcing Sanji's Zhask to retreat and defend alone.
Fnatic ONIC will aim to extend their winning streak to nine when they face Blacklist International on Saturday, while Team Liquid PH will take on Aurora Gaming next week.
Follow him on X: @DMalihan_DPH
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