Contemporary Nook's Resident Tournament Organizer Dave Sapanghila delivered an impressive performance at the recent MTG SEA Championships Philippines Modern Open, securing an 11th place finish. Competing with his well-crafted RG Gruul deck, Dave navigated through a highly competitive field, demonstrating strategic prowess and adaptability.

The Deck: RG Gruul

Creatures

4 Monastery Swiftspear

4 Slickshot Show-off

4 Questing Druid

4 Dragon's Rage Channeler

3 Tarmogoyf

3 Soul-Scar Mage

Spells

4 Lightning Bolt

4 Mishra's Bauble

4 Lava Dart

3 Abundant Harvest

1 Crash Through

1 Tarfire

2 Unholy Heat

2 Mutagenic Growth

2 Underworld Breach

Lands

3 Mountain

1 Commercial District

4 Wooded Foothills

3 Stomping Ground

1 Fiery Islet

3 Bloodstained Mire

2 Arid Mesa

Sideboard

1 Jegantha, the Wellspring [companion]

1 Forest

2 Pick Your Poison

2 Veil of Summer

3 Tormod's Crypt

1 Cursed Totem

1 Magus of the Moon

2 Blood Moon

2 Destructive Revelry

Key Cards and Strategies

Monastery Swiftspear

Monastery Swiftspear was crucial in applying early pressure. Its prowess ability allowed it to grow stronger with each spell cast, making it a persistent threat that demanded answers from opponents.

Dragon's Rage Channeler

Dragon's Rage Channeler excelled in filling the graveyard quickly. The combination of Mishra's Bauble and Lava Dart enabled swift delirium, transforming Channeler into a 3/3 flyer, adding an aerial threat to Dave’s arsenal.

Tarmogoyf

Tarmogoyf's scalability and efficiency made it a powerhouse in the deck. It frequently outclassed other creatures on the battlefield due to its ability to grow large rapidly.

Questing Druid

Questing Druid offered versatility with its adventure mechanic, providing both a valuable spell and a solid creature. This dual role allowed Dave to adapt to various game states effectively.

Lightning Bolt

A staple in any red deck, Lightning Bolt provided efficient removal and direct damage. Dave’s precise use of Bolts to control the board and finish games was instrumental in his success.

Tournament Performance and Key Highlights

Round 1 vs Domain Zoo (Win)

Dave gained an early advantage with Monastery Swiftspear and Dragon's Rage Channeler, maintaining pressure and finishing with Slickshot Show-off.

Round 2 vs Domain Zoo (Win)

Effective use of Flyers and ground creatures enabled Dave to block efficiently and secure the win through consistent pressure.

Round 3 vs Jund Creativity (Win)

Dave’s strategic play with Lay Dart to counter his opponent’s graveyard strategy disrupted their plan, leading to a well-earned victory.

Round 4 vs Ad Nauseam Thassa Combo (Lose)

Despite a strong start, Dave faced a well-executed combo from his opponent. His aggressive strategy was challenged by the combo's sudden life gain and damage output.

Round 5 vs Jund Creativity (Win)

Consistent play and timely removal spells allowed Dave to maintain control and secure another win against a tough opponent.

Round 6 vs Izzet Control (Win)

A pivotal moment was Dave's use of Veil of Summer to protect his creatures from removal, turning the tide in a close match and leading to victory.

Round 7 vs BG Yawgmoth (Lose)

A long, drawn-out game with numerous blockers and graveyard loops proved challenging. Despite his efforts, the overwhelming board presence led to a loss.

Round 8 vs UR Murktide (Win)

Dave’s aggressive strategy paid off with early pressure from Monastery Swiftspear. Smart plays with Underworld Breach turned his graveyard into a resource, securing the win.

Final Record: 6-2

Dave’s record of 6-2 earned him an 11th place finish, reflecting his skill and the effectiveness of his RG Gruul deck. His performance highlights the deck’s potential and his ability to navigate a variety of matchups with precision.

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