Pandora the roamer? Falcons introduces a unique tactical twist

FRESH OFF winning the SIBOL 2025 Men’s National Team Selection, Team Falcons pulled off a reverse sweep against TNC Pro Team in Week 7 of the MPL Philippines Season 15, with the sixth man, Vincent “Pandora” Unigo, making a season debut as a roamer.

Team Falcons made a bold strategic move, shifting Pandora from the EXP lane to roamer to fill in for Rowgien “Owgwen” Unigo, a plan that had been in the works weeks prior.

“Mga two weeks din nag practice si Pando (Pandora) kasi alam naman namin na may agenda na gagawin si Rowgien kaya pinag-ready na namin si Pando. Target namin talaga si Pando maging any role,” coach Robert “Trebor” Sanchez explained.

Shifting roles can be tough, especially in the professional scene, where you’re up against players with more experience in their respective positions. Still, Pandora finds joy in embracing and adjusting to his new role.

“Iba eh. Parang pag roamer ka, iba yung titingnan mo compared pag EXP lane ka. Mas masaya para sa akin kasi nandun ka lagi sa giyera tapos minsan ikaw pa yung magsisimula ng laban. Pero syempre may adjustment period pa rin at hindi ko pa super na ma-maximize lahat,” he expressed.

Pandora made his presence felt and earned the MVP title on Kalea with a 1-3-8 KDA in game three, learning the ropes from his cousin and top-tier roamer, Owgwen.

“Pinaka-advice niya sa akin siguro tapangan lang tapos kung lamang ka sa hero, take advantage mo lang. Pag nagsi-scrim kasi sila, pinapanood ko yung galaw niya so parang ita-try ko gayahin talaga,” Pandora said.

PHOTO: MPL Philippines, MOONTON Games

Is Pandora's performance superstar-esque?

The rest of the Falcons squad gave Pandora's season debut a high rating and suggested he could deliver even more surprises if given more chances to perform on the MPL stage.

“8 out of 10. Kulang ng 2 kasi hindi niya nalabas yung Chou. Kung nakita niyo yung Chou ni Pando, tapos na agad,” team captain Angelo “Pheww” Arcangel said.

“10 out of 10 kasi first time maglaro ng roam ni Pando sa MPL tapos panalo pa,” Marco “Super Marco” Requitiano added.

Team Falcons will return to action in Week 8 against AP.Bren and Aurora Gaming. Will Pandora take to the stage again as the team pushes for an upper bracket advantage?

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