Picking up from yesterdays games, the 2021 LPL Summer Split returned for Day 3, where we saw FunPlus Phoenix (FPX) return to the stage for their second game. The 2019 Worlds champions went up against Ultra Prime (UP), their first game after rebranding from eStar. Meanwhile, in the second match of the day, LNG Esports (LNG) faced off against Victory 5 (V5).
FPX denies 400 years from UP
Game 1 was close for the most part, as both teams found multiple advantageous fights against their opponents. When one team was pulling ahead, their opponent would find a fight that would equalize the score and the gold. However, one team fight from FPX that almost resulted in the ace secured them a baron and the gold lead. Nuguri, FPX’ top-laner, looked to use the advantages he gained from these during the final team fight. The game ended with a baron secure from FPX, and a quadra-kill for Nuguri.
In Game 2, we can summarize the whole game in 2 words. 200 Years. Despite even trades in the early game, most of the tower plate gold went over solo to UP’s ADC, Smlz, who was on Aphelios. In both casters’ words, a 3-item Aphelios is still a 3-item Aphelios. Smlz showed us why Aphelios deserved to be feared in the past, and even now, as he put on a carry performance on the champion.
Both teams were looking to pick up the final win. Dominant from last game, Smlz picked up the Aphelios once again. On the other hand, Nuguri picked up his signature champion which has his own skin on Kennen. FPX looked angry after losing Game 2, and you could see it in their performance. The team was 12-5 by the 25-minute mark. 2 and a half minutes later, FPX managed to end the game after securing Cloud soul, and winning the team fight.
One beautiful moment from this game was LWX, FPX’ AD Carry, performing a feat we rarely see in pro play. On Ezreal, he managed to snipe somebody who had just recalled to the fountain. Even as a pro player, being able to pull off such a kill is still something to behold from him.
LNG show dominance in 2-0 sweep
Match 2 of Day 3 of the 2021 LPL Summer Split was, well, a stomp. For context, Game 1 ended with a 13-2 kill score, a victory to LNG. While that might not seem like a lot, LNG had 8 towers to 1, and a 10k gold lead by the end of it. On the other hand, Game 2 ended in a much more dominant fashion. A kill score of 23-2, and a 14k gold lead. If this wasn’t enough, the game ended before 21 minutes.
While V5 isn’t part of the elite, it’s important to remember that neither is LNG. Neither team are compared to the likes of EDG, FPX, and the like. However, this dominant performance from LNG might have other people thinking otherwise. If LNG can keep up their momentum, they may have a good chance at winning the whole split.
