Cover-Credits:
Over the past couple of months, OB.Neon has gone through a lot with its inability to make it to The International 10 (TI10) and some drastic roster changes. In the most recent roster change, the team parted ways with midlaner, Erin Jasper "Yopaj" Ferrer. The Filipino team, which Yopaj played on for two years, shared a video message where the midlaner reflected on the most memorable experience he had with them. OB.Neon's 5th-6th place finish at the Singapore Major 2021, following some remarkably impressive performances, is what Yopaj considers as very special.
OB.Neon releases a video message from Yopaj after they parted ways
OB.Neon had an extremely successful year in 2020 in the tier 2-3 Southeast Asia (SEA) scene, but was still the underdog heading into Dota Pro Circuit (DPC) 2021. In the first season of the DPC, the team performed well, finishing second and earning a berth at the Singapore Major, its first-ever Major in Dota 2.
Even though qualifying to the Major had been an impressive accomplishment, OB.Neon put forth a show of aggressive and clean Dota 2 play in the event to beat the best in the world. A stellar run ended with it finishing 5th-6th, barely losing to Team Secret in the lower bracket.
When Yopaj left OB.Neon earlier today, he recalled that his most memorable experience was qualifying for the Singapore Major. Even Yopaj was surprised at how well they did.
“In my two years with Neon, the most memorable experience was when we qualified for the Singapore Major. Even though we lost, I had so much fun against Team Secret. This was because we didn’t expect anything to begin with, especially up against one of the best teams in the world.”
In the lower bracket, OB.Neon’s final series against Team Secret went the distance to three games. After a 1-1 draw, it was a close, extremely competitive game three that Team Secret won by a hair's breadth. In the last teamfight, either team could have won, but the European squad held on.
As part of his message to fans, Yopaj thanked them for their support and belief in his team's ability. The Filipino midlaner had a similar message of gratitude for his former teammates at OB.Neon.
“I would like to thank my teammates who had the faith in me. Even though we failed sometimes, at least we did our best. I’d take this opportunity to thank the OB.Neon family, to Mr. Karl (manager) and Mr. Rob (CEO). Thank you for having me. Also to my teammates, Jau, Roroi, skem, PlayHard, and Natsumi-. They are all good inside and outside the game.”
After leaving OB.Neon, Yopaj is looking forward to pursuing new opportunities. As any other pro Dota 2 player, his goal next DPC season is to compete in the Major Championships or The International.
