Fnatic’s coach Chris “Elmapuddy” Tebbit appeared extremely positive in our post-VCT EMEA interview, signaling Fnatic’s strongest form as they gear up for VCT Champions later in the season. Despite a season marked by inconsistency, Fnatic managed to regroup when it counted the most.
Check out our post-season interview below:
Photo by Michal Konkol/Riot Games
Lee Jones: Let’s start with addressing the negative aspects first.
What transpired during the second map?
Elmapuddy: The team’s communication broke down during crucial moments. We forced engagements in the mid rounds, leading to a chaotic atmosphere among the players. It seemed like they were attempting to compensate for lost fights collectively, making it difficult to regain the right mindset. I had to call timeouts to remind them to take a step back and reset for the next round.
Whenever I have to resort to such timeouts, it indicates our struggles. Ideally, I call timeouts for tactical adjustments when we are communicating effectively and executing the basics correctly. We had a tough time resetting during that map’s midpoint. However, we managed to bounce back towards the end, which was encouraging. I commended the team for their efforts at the map’s conclusion and urged them to carry that momentum into the next map. It’s a learning experience, and we aim to improve from it.
Image credit: Riot Games
Why do you believe the fourth map was dominated? Was the opponents unprepared for the strategy?
Elmapuddy: It’s hard to pinpoint exactly. We secured some crucial kills early on that may have demoralized the opposition. However, Bind isn’t our preferred map based on our vetoes. So, the one-sided nature of that map took us by surprise, as it’s typically a strong map for our opponents as well.
Lee Jones: Reflecting on the overall season, there may have been some disappointment in not achieving more victories throughout the year.
Are you satisfied that the team is performing at its peak during the crucial period?
Yes, we are hitting our stride at the right moment. Since the KC win, we have seen a rejuvenated performance from the team. While there have been some exceptions, like the Ascent game today, the improved communication and cohesion among the players have been remarkable. Tactics are essential, but without teamwork, success is elusive. The team has done a commendable job, peaking at the right time. Despite winning domestic tournaments, our international success is yet to be realized. We aim to change that in the upcoming weeks.
Photo by Michal Konkol/Riot Games
Lee Jones: Gorilla mentioned that Fnatic seemed less affected by fatigue due to additional rest days this week and a break earlier in the split.
Do you believe the Fnatic players are experiencing fatigue compared to other teams?
Elmapuddy: No, Gorilla is correct. We had a packed early schedule, and once we secured qualification for Champs after the KC win, we had additional time to rest. Following a super week, we took two consecutive days off, which was unusual for us. This break, coupled with a recent roster change, has rejuvenated the team. It’s crucial to keep things fresh, especially after a successful start to the season like teams KC and Heretics. Being early qualifiers allowed us to experiment and maintain a competitive edge.
For example, the Clove strategy on Bind: “We’re already qualified for champs, let’s try something new.”
Lee Jones: Speaking of the roster move, Hiro has had a significant impact since joining the team.
Do you anticipate a tough decision post-season, especially if Champs goes well?
Ultimately, the decision rests with Cojo (Senior Team Director). Winning Champs would add a unique dynamic to the roster evaluation. Leo remains an exceptional player, particularly as a Sova/Jett player. Therefore, any decision regarding the roster will consider his unmatched skills. As of now, the focus is on the current lineup, and Cojo has been clear that Leo’s position is secure. Regardless of outcomes, Leo will return to the roster once he is fit to play.
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