T1 won their first LCK Spring Split 2021 match against Hanwha Life Esports by fielding in a roster without Faker in a hard-fought 2-1 series.

The first MVP vote was picked up by Ellim in the first game for his immaculate Olaf gameplay, securing most neutral objectives alongside finishing the game with a 100 percent kill participation. The second MVP vote went to Chovy, who helped equalize the series for HLE, while the third one went to Clozer for his impressive Irelia mechanics, helping T1 close out the series.

The series began with a huge statement from T1, outplaying HLE on all lanes by picking up kills left and right with calculated plays. The gold difference steadily grew in favor of T1, reaching a 14 thousand gold difference towards the end of the game. HLE had no answers for T1’s aggressive plays, losing the first game after 30 minutes in a very dominant fashion.

Following the devastating loss in the first game, HLE changed their priority on Olaf in the draft phase. They picked it up in the first round for their jungler, which worked out wonders in-game. Rookie jungler Park “Arthur” Mi-reu was a decisive factor in HLE’s win in the second game, helping the team secure all neutral objectives while being a great frontline on Olaf.

T1 kept trying to stop HLE in their tracks of equalizing the series, but the Rell pick caught them off guard and won HLE a couple of teamfights to help them close out the second game.

Following the loss in the second game, everyone wondered whether Faker would come to save the day, however that was not necessary. T1 changed their draft priority and banned out Olaf, forcing Arthur on Graves again for which they were prepared. The highlight of T1’s drafting phase was a Irelia blind-pick, Clozer’s signature pick.

The third game was reminiscent of the first one with T1 being in the driver seat throughout the entire game. Even though they were dropping kills this time, HLE couldn’t capitalize on the small advantages to convert into neutral objectives. A huge play by Clozer for the third drake helped T1 grow a huge lead, which helped them close out the series.

T1’s roster today looked great with players having synergy across the board, which helped them secure their first win of the 2021 LCK Spring Split. Fans will have the opportunity to see T1 on the rift again on Friday at 6am CT when they face the 2020 World Champions DWG KIA.

Make sure to follow us on YouTube for more esports news and analysis.