MPL Season 11: Onic turn back CH4knu-less Omega; spoil E2MAX's coaching debut

MANILA (UPDATE) - Onic Philippines opened their MPL Philippines Season 11 campaign with a win over Omega Esports, Saturday, at the Shooting Gallery Studios in Makati.

Omega were without longtime roamer, MPL Philippines Hall of Legends inductee Joshua "Ch4knu" Mangilog who sat out this season, while the squad appointed former captain Patrick "E2MAX" Caidic as assistant coach.

In Game 1, Onic dominated the side-lanes, as they conquered the low-scoring, 15-minute matchup, keeping Omega to just 3 kills.

Omega exploded from the get-go of Game 2, taking nearly full control of the map as they forced a rubber match, with Grant Duane "Kelra" Pillas (Karrie) putting up 4 kills and 4 assists.

A conceal play which allowed Onic to pick off Kelra (Brody) on Game 3 became the difference maker in the decider match, getting the lord and securing the series.

Onic Philippines, made of a young core of players, are trying to rise after a heartbreaking exit in the playoffs of Season 10, topped by the departure of captain and role player Ralph "Rapidoot" Adrales, who dropped to the development league as he focused on his studies.

In a post-match interview, head coach Mark "Bluffzy" Reyes said his wards learned from last season's experience.

"Noong bumaba ang performance namin, nagtatalo kami talaga and doon lumabas ang frrustrations namin... Moving forward sa Season 11 tingin ko 'yon ang dapat naming i-work out." Bluffzy said.

Onic Philippines will see action again on Sunday against RSG Philippines, while Omega have one more chance of ending the weekend strong as they face Bren Esports the same day.