The newest recruit and the future of the game introduced themselves with style. Baloyskie, formerly known as Greed from AURA Philippines- and Kairi transitioning back to the jungler role created plays for ONIC to secure 3 points to start off the tourney.

The game showed how focused the team was in taking down objectives. Even in the first game, where ECHO seemed to have a draft composition that could potentially spike in the early stages of the game, ONIC managed to turn the tables by picking off heroes and baiting the enemy hero skills to the point where they no longer have an answer anymore. Baloyskie with the use of Natan surprised their opponents and event the casters. A pick like this was started by Renbo from Indonesia’s Bigetron Alpha and it does seem to work wonders. On the other hand- Kairi was making the right decisions at the appropriate time. He was split-pushing using Ling in the first game, stealing buff after buff from enemy territory and delaying the enemy Hayabusa’s power spike; and applying so much damage to ECHO as Harley in Game 2 with a 6/1/5 KDA. Preparations were seen and it was a treat to see for ONIC fans because everyone was very comfortable with their positions and it’s exciting to see how big of a threat the men in yellow and black are for the championship.

On the other hand, ECHO had some veterans and new guys on the team. Rafflesia finally made his return after not being able to play as much last season. Together with new teammates, they would have to figure out some technicalities in their play-style. Drafting, especially in the second game was one of the few reasons why the match ended quickly and with minimal casualties for the opposing side. It’s difficult to give the prized heroes of the current Meta in Paquito and Harley without having no answer in return. They did deny the Ling from Kairi but it didn’t fit the team composition since there was so much pressure coming from the enemy. In the end, it was a sweep and the team obviously looks to bounce back in their next match. However, there was a ray of light among the echoes as RK3- one of the newest rookies in the MPL showed some promising plays using his Kagura in the first game. We are yet to see the rest of the members like Jaymeister playing, but I bet Coach Dale has it all part of the plan.

GAME 1 - ONIC 9-12 ECHO (18:51)

GAME 2 - ONIC 8-2 ECHO (11:31)

GAME MVP: BALOYSKIE (ONIC), KAIRI (ONIC)