Buzz
SE has performed admirably since entering the second round of the SEA Games 31 qualifiers, but the upcoming challenges will be considerably tougher.
Since the start of the second round of SEA Games 31 qualifiers for the League of Legends discipline, SBTC Esports has shown a vastly different face compared to their previous selves in round 1. No longer on the brink of elimination, they now resemble a formidable 'Warrior' force. Particularly noteworthy is their victory against GAM Esports, a team they had never beaten prior to this round. SE secures the top spot and earns the privilege to choose their opponent in the fourth round of teams, with GAM and Saigon Buffalo being the two options.
But despite their commendable performance in the second round of the SEA Games 31 qualifiers, it will be somewhat challenging for SE to achieve greatness. Securing a spot in SEA Games 31 as the representative League of Legends team for Vietnam may only be two BO 5 matches away for the 'Warriors', but it could also be a distant dream.
SE in Turmoil
Comparing SE in VCS Spring 2022 and SE in SEA Games 31, no one would believe they are the same team, except for the sole position change in the jungle and occasionally the AD Carry role. However, the stark difference between SE in VCS Spring this year and in the SEA Games 31 qualifiers is undeniable. It could be argued that the 'Warriors' have placed their primary focus on SEA Games 31, but it's also impossible to ignore the significant instability among SE players.
Taking examples like GAM or SGB, they've been performing well in the SEA Games 31 qualifiers while maintaining stability in VCS Spring 2022. This holds true not only for Esports but for any sport. Once engaged in tournaments, teams must ensure consistency and morale throughout the journey.
At present, while SE continues to shine in the SEA Games 31 qualifiers, things seem stable for the 'Warriors'. However, betting solely on this, SE's chances of failure are also high. A single misstep could jeopardize all their efforts in the second round. In VCS Spring 2022, SE's chances of winning titles remain extremely low compared to giants like GAM, CES, or SGB.
Excessive Reliance on Individual Brilliance
As mentioned earlier, the core lineup of SE in the SEA Games 31 qualifiers and in VCS Spring 2022 differs most notably in the Spot position. He's an exceptional jungler. Before his suspension, Spot was considered an incredibly talented jungler, just after SofM and partly Levi. However, SE's dependence on Spot is undeniable, and this is the 'double-edged sword'.
Surely, teams participating in the fourth round like GAM, SGB, or even SKY have understood SE's strengths in this qualifier where they focus the most. Celebrity remains a dangerous trigger, and 2T has his moments of brilliance. But perhaps everyone sees that in matches against GAM, Spot is the main factor helping SE secure victory.
And once the issue is understood, consider it as 50% solved. It wouldn't be surprising if in the upcoming BO5 series, GAM or SGB, SKY when facing SE will try every means to neutralize the spark named Spot. And when the former GAM star's power is restricted, does SE still have any chance to win against these two formidable opponents?
GAM and SGB are Both Familiar with BO5 Matches
It goes without saying, perhaps every Vietnamese LoL community member understands, GAM and SGB are among the most decorated teams in VCS. Not to mention their numerous runner-up finishes or appearances in playoffs. It can be said that GAM and SGB's prowess in BO5 series is beyond dispute.
But SE is different. Despite their players being top-notch in VCS, in reality, these names have never played a professional BO5 match together. And the SE name itself has never appeared in any BO5 match since its inception. The upcoming fourth round will mark SE's first-ever BO5 matches. Fans are concerned, especially since GAM often switches to a serious mode in BO5s.
Conclusion
Regardless, before the matches officially take place, all assertions are tentative. And who knows, when SE can identify its issues and prepare thoroughly, fans might witness explosions from this team, nicknamed the 'VCS Circus.'
