RESULTS: The Los Angeles Valiant Secure the Win against the Philadelphia Fusion

A final chance for the Fusion to claim a spot in the playoffs came undone as they fell to the Los Angeles Valiant 3-2. Here’s a brief breakdown of the series.

The first map, Volskaya Industries, saw Los Angeles make their attack first. Looking to shut down the Fusion early, the Valiant steamrolled their defences, pushing through to secure the first objective before using their momentum to capture the second point with plenty of time to spare. The attack from the Fusion seemed to stall at several points. Though they were able to secure the first point, the Fusion could not translate that into success on the second point, only managing to capture 66% before the round finished, handing the victory to the Valiant.

The second map, Numbani, was a reversal of fortunes for the Fusion. Los Angeles had first attack, and though they were able to capture and advance the payload, they were unable to do so in a timely manner, leaving an opening for Philadelphia. The Fusion attack was swifter than their opponents, as they secured and advanced the payload with time remaining, granting them a second chance to claim victory. Their second attack was equally as successful, as they forced LA back and captured the required percentage to claim the map victory.

The third map, Nepal, was a close showdown between both teams. The Philadelphia Fusion were able to secure a fair percentage of the first round, reaching 76% before the Valiant pushed them away and claimed the round. The second round was less positive for the Fusion, as they were only able to capture 25% before the Valiant again claimed the round and map victory.

The fourth map, Route 66, was an opportunity for the Fusion to keep their series hopes alive. The attack from Los Angeles was able to reach the second checkpoint after some difficulty, however they were unable to complete the course, with Philadelphia proving too strong in their defence. The Fusion attack was much more promising, as they reached the second checkpoint without seeming to struggle much at all. With the Valiant defence pushed to its limits, the Fusion were able to reach the required distance with time to spare, handing them the map victory and setting up a final confrontation.

The fifth and final map, Oasis, saw the Valiant take control of the map early. Los Angeles were able to reach 99% before the Fusion managed to flip the point, though they continued to contest the match. Philadelphia also reached 99% before the point became embroiled in a desperate fight as both sides threw everything that had into the mix. Los Angeles were able to flip the point once more, claiming the first round for themselves. The Fusion were able to capture the point first, however soon lost control as the Valiant swarmed the area. Los Angeles reached 99% before being forced back by the Fusion, who quickly looked to establish control of the area once more. With a final fight, the Valiant are able to retake the point and eventually push the Fusion back, ending the series with a victory.

For more Overwatch League action, check out the match recaps from earlier in the day, here, and for more information on when these teams will clash again, check out the Official Schedule, here.