Finally, the most anticipated rematch of the SEA Games 31 League of Legends qualifiers between GAM Esports and SBTC Esports has officially taken place. These are two rivals with a storied history, and both GAM fans and players are eager for revenge against SE – the team that completely defeated them in the second round of the SEA Games 31 qualifiers as well as in the tie-break match.
But there was no magic left for “Gà Hồng” (Pink Chick) this time. GAM completely annihilated their long-time rival in just about 21 minutes in game 1, just as they have done in their previous encounters with SE. Witnessing the destruction of the VCS Winter 2022 runners-up, no one could believe that this was the same team that had lost to SE in their very first match during the second round of the SEA Games qualifiers back in mid-February.
However, SE also proved that they were truly determined in this SEA Games 31 qualifier. In game 2, the “Gà Hồng” members had an advantage in the early game. But once again, GAM’s resilience shone through. GAM won a team fight at the Dragon pit and secured a precious Baron. GAM continued to snowball effectively, and when 3 SE members fell, the “circus” fans surely understood that they were trailing 0-2.
The scenario in game 3 was not much different from game 1, except that GAM didn’t exhibit the same quick destruction. 2T had a highlight moment stealing Baron with Smite, but that was all that SE could achieve. GAM secured their second Baron and claimed the game, while SE’s dream of the SEA Games 31 was officially shattered.
With this victory, GAM officially becomes the remaining team to compete in the SEA Games 31 qualifier finals. They will meet SGB again in a rematch of the VCS Spring 2021 finals with a much more significant goal – a spot representing Vietnam in the SEA Games 31 for League of Legends.
As for SE, after weeks of soaring high, this loss brought the “Gà Hồng” crashing back to earth. However, if the SE members can learn from this defeat, their chances in the VCS Spring 2022 are still alive. And with only one goal to focus on, SE could very well create more surprises in the future.