Spark 3-1 Dragons
The Hangzhou Spark wrapped up Season 2’s opening day with a highly-anticipated match against the Shanghai Dragons. With the possibility of either Shanghai’s first win or a strong debut from Hangzhou, the crowd buzzed with excitement. Ultimately, the Spark managed to start their season off with a bang, defeating the Dragons 3-1.
Busan: 2-1 Hangzhou
The Spark faced a rocky start on MEKA Base, struggling against a methodical performance from Shanghai DPS diem. They ultimately dropped the map. Despite this, they found their footing on Downtown, where they took on Shanghai with renewed vigor. On both Downtown and Sanctuary, the teams appeared equally matched, but a solid performance from BeBe and general team synergy allowed Hangzhou to come out on top. The Hangzhou Spark took the map 2-1.
Hollywood: 2-1 Hangzhou
Hollywood gave the Spark a better chance to flex their skill in the 3-3 meta. Despite the Dragons easily capping the first point on attack, the Spark managed to hold them through the first push. A massive coordinated effort between GodsB’s Graviton Surge and Ria’s D.Va bomb, combined with a perfectly-timed boop from iDK, took out four Shanghai players at once. That powerful play, combined with generally aggressive play, made Hollywood easy work for the Spark. The Hangzhou Spark took the map 2-1.
Horizon Lunar Colony: 3-2 Shanghai
Horizon gave both teams a run for their money. Both teams scrapped their way through the first two rounds, completing the map with time to spare. On Hangzhou’s side, both NoSmite and GodsB showed off standout performances on Wrecking Ball and Sombra, respectively. However, things broke down for the Spark in the third and fourth rounds. After failing to cap the first point in their second attack round, the Spark struggled to counter YOUNGJIN on Reaper. The Shanghai Dragons ultimately took the map 3-2.
Rialto: 2-1 Hangzhou
Leading into the last map of the evening, the Spark subbed in guxue, providing him with his first steps onto the Overwatch League stage. He proved as much of a force as ever, leading his team to a solid hold on defense despite some coordination flubs (and a few technical issues, as well). Though the Dragons’ offseason activities have clearly paid off, and they look stronger than they ever have, the Spark still finished the series strong, pushing through Shanghai’s aggressive defense. The Hangzhou Spark took the map 2-1, finishing out the night with a 3-1 victory.
A Solid Start
The Spark can leave the stage proud of their season debut. Their victory marks the first Overwatch League win by a Chinese team, which is an important milestone to have attached to their name. As one of the more highly considered expansion teams, it will take a lot of work to live up to that name, but the Spark proved tonight that they have their eyes on meeting those expectations.
The Hangzhou Spark continue their Overwatch League journey on February 16, when they take on the Los Angeles Valiant. Be sure to tune in, and to keep up with match recaps here at The Game Haus!
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Featured image courtesy of the Overwatch League.
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