ONIC Philippines outlasted Twisted Minds in a hard-fought three-game series to open their MPL Philippines Season 17 campaign on a winning note on Friday.
It was a historic moment for MPL PH as Clayton “Savero” Kuswanto suited up for ONIC, marking the first time an import has played in the league.
The Super Family fielded Savero alongside Nowee “Ryota” Macasa, with Jann Kirk “Kirk” Gutierrez taking the backseat. Twisted Minds, meanwhile, started Lee Howard “Owl” Gonzales in place of Mico “Nosia” Capil.
ONIC struck first as King Cyric “K1NGKONG” Perez led the charge. The jungler posted three kills and four assists on Harley, conceding just one death.
Twisted Minds’ 30-minute effort in Game 1 went to waste as K1NGKONG and Savero led a crucial comeback near the ONIC base in the 28th minute, with the Indonesian import sealing a triple kill to complete the turnaround.
Twisted Minds bounced back in Game 2, closing it out in under 18 minutes. Miguel “Sionnn” Alcantara’s Valentina proved pivotal, finishing with an 11/3/7 stat line. Lance “Lansu” Misa also impressed on Gloo, assisting in 11 of TWIS’ 21 total kills, while Ryota struggled on Phoveus with just one kill and three assists.
Game 3 saw another extended battle, but ONIC ultimately prevailed after 20 minutes. K1NGKONG delivered a flawless 7/0/4 performance on Leomord, while Borris “Brusko” Parro stepped up with a 2/3/10 showing on Gatotkaca.
ONIC will next face Team Falcons on Sunday, while Twisted Minds will look to bounce back against Team Liquid PH on Saturday.
