The upset against MIBR was fun, but it’s becoming increasingly difficult to build a case around THUNDER dOWNUNDER after what we’ve seen since. They’ve remained competitive at times, yet they haven’t found a way to replicate the level that produced one of the biggest surprises of Stage 1.

FlyQuest haven’t exactly inspired confidence either, but they still possess considerably more experience and firepower. Players like nettik and jks have spent years playing these kinds of pressure matches, and that’s difficult to ignore in an elimination series.

The all-Australian factor makes things slightly unpredictable but FlyQuest simply have more ways to win. They can grind out slower maps, they have stronger individuals, and they’ve generally looked more competitive against stronger opponents throughout the tournament. THUNDER have already exceeded expectations, but this feels like where the run comes to an end.