DRX Bounces Back with a Dominant 2-0 Win Against Afreeca Freecs
After suffering a devastating loss to Damwon Gaming, DRX showed their resilience and skill with a clean 2-0 victory over the gatekeepers of the upper standings, Afreeca Freecs.
The two rookies of DRX, Hong “Pyosik” Chang-hyeon and Ryu “Keria” Min-seok, were the standout performers of the series and received the Player of the Game Awards. Pyosik showcased his impeccable skill on Lee Sin, stealing the Baron in the first game, while Keria’s Alistar combos were on point with a scoreline of 0/3/9.
In the first game, both teams played passively and neither could secure dragon control. However, DRX managed to sneakily take the first dragon and responded to AFS’s second dragon with the Rift Herald. At the 22-minute mark, AFS got a crucial pick on Chovy and attempted to take the Baron, but Pyosik’s mechanics on Lee Sin allowed him to steal it, turning the tides in DRX’s favor.
With the Baron buff, DRX established dominance in every lane and built a significant lead. They won teamfights, secured the second Baron, and ultimately closed out the first game of the series.
In the second game, AFS had a better early game and built a lead. However, a stellar combo from Keria’s Alistar turned the tide in DRX’s favor. They capitalized on this teamfight win, secured more dragons, and obtained the first Baron. In a 30-minute skirmish where Chovy shined, DRX sealed the series with a victory.
AFS, as expected, struggled against top-tier teams and continued their losing streak. DRX currently holds the top spot in the LCK Summer Split Standings, and their next challenge will be against the rising Sandbox Gaming. Despite previously being an easy target, Sandbox Gaming has improved under the guidance of head coach YamataCannon and could potentially pull off an upset with proper drafts and gameplay.
Tune in to the official LCK broadcast next week to see if SB can cause an upset against the first seed, DRX.