The 52nd ESEA season is slowly drawing to a close, particularly at levels higher than Open10, where the competition will continue for a little longer. For SLAKE, the playoff adventure has unfortunately come to an end. Although the team had a chance to continue fighting, they ultimately failed to rise to the challenge and had to concede defeat to their rivals. Was it really a fight to the very end?
The end of SLAKE’s run in the playoffs – was it a fight to the very end?
- SLAKE 0:2 GAIDAMAKS
- Ancient, 7:13
- Anubis, 6:13
- Dust 2, potential decider
SLAKE failed to put up a fight in their final match of the playoffs. The match turned out to be one-sided – a lack of effectiveness in key rounds and problems maintaining the pace meant that their rivals closed out the series in two maps without much difficulty. At crucial moments, GAIDAMAKS demonstrated better organisation and effectiveness, which allowed them to advance confidently.
The first map, Ancient, was selected by GAIDAMAKS. The start of the clash still offered hope of an even contest – SLAKE showed solid play at times, skilfully countering their opponents and winning individual rounds. Unfortunately, a lack of consistency and problems in crucial rounds meant that their opponents gradually took control. Ultimately, GAIDAMAKS won 7–13, and SLAKE were unable to break through their opponents’ well-functioning defence.
The second map, Anubis, was SLAKE’s choice, but the team faced huge problems right from the start. GAIDAMAKS began the match with full momentum, effectively breaking down SLAKE’s defence. The first half ended 3–9, which already put SLAKE in a very difficult position. After the sides switched, the team tried to get back into the game, but their opponents were too well organised. Winning the next three rounds wasn’t enough – GAIDAMAKS closed out the map with a score of 6:13, ending the series 0:2.
Despite the painful defeat, SLAKE has solid foundations on which to build its future. Although the team failed to achieve the coveted promotion to the Main division this season, it certainly has the potential to fight for it next season. Analysing mistakes and improving their ability to close out rounds will be key – these were the very factors that led to their defeat in the playoffs.
With the right preparation, SLAKE could return stronger in the future. Will we see them again in the promotion battle? Time will tell!
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