Following the conclusion of the ESEA Entry main stage, in which Young Stars Academy finished with an 8-6 record and placed 119th–120th, it was time for the decisive matches of the play-offs. The team, whose previous matches we discussed in detail [here], faced another challenge, taking on the Romanian side Werty AC Scar on 2 September at 7.30 pm. The stakes were clear – every match at this stage is of huge importance for a potential promotion to the higher division, namely ESEA Intermediate.
An exciting start to the contest
The match began with the map (de_ancient) selected by Werty AC Scar. The Poles started this stage of the match highly focused, which allowed them to secure a 6-6 draw after the first half. The game was fast-paced, with both teams trading blows, repeatedly breaking through each other’s defences. The Poles displayed solid teamwork and it was clear they had a plan for this part of the match, but at crucial moments they lacked a touch of composure and failed to finish off certain rounds. In the second half, the opponents capitalised on Young Stars Academy’s mistakes and, step by step, built up a lead which they held onto until the end. The first map ended 11-13, putting the Poles’ backs against the wall.
A comeback and levelling the match
Young Stars Academy had already chosen the second map, and their choice proved to be spot on, although the start did not bode well. After the first half, they were trailing 4:8 and many fans may have feared a repeat of the previous stage of the competition. However, the second half of this clash was a display of determination and efficiency. The Polish players began to read their opponents better, played more aggressively and capitalised meticulously on every mistake their rivals made. A series of successful rounds led to a draw, and in the closing stages, it was the Poles who kept their cool. A 13:11 victory (de_nuke) restored hope and meant that the outcome of the match would be decided on the final map.
A tense decider
The third map, which remained in the pool after the ban phase by both teams, was very evenly matched from the very start. The Polish team began with some momentum, but the first half ended with them trailing narrowly at 5:7. The Romanian team displayed solid tactical play and did not allow the Poles to spread their wings. In the second half of the match, Young Stars Academy came close to taking control of the game on several occasions, but they lacked the finishing touch in key rounds. Ultimately, it was Werty AC Scar who capitalised on their chances and closed out the map with a score of 11:13, securing victory in the match.
What next for Young Stars Academy?
Despite the defeat, Young Stars Academy are not yet out of the competition. In accordance with the tournament format, they drop down to the lower bracket of the playoffs, where they can still fight for promotion to the higher division – ESEA Intermediate. The next match will be crucial, as a defeat in the lower bracket would mean saying goodbye to their dreams of promotion this season. At the moment, it is not yet known who the Poles will face or when the match will take place, but it will not be before 8 September. The team must learn from this clash, improve communication at crucial moments and fight even harder for every point in the upcoming matches.
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