Creamline put its indomitable spirit and unwavering championship poise on full display as it dismantled Choco Mucho in a thrilling four-set clash, leaving the Smart Araneta Coliseum pulsating with energy and excitement Thursday night.
Despite facing adversity in three of the sets, the Cool Smashers dug deep, rallying behind their seasoned veterans and resilient bench players to secure a hard-fought 24-26, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16 victory, inching closer to maintaining their throne in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
In front of a raucous crowd of 17,457, adorned in hues of purple and pink, Creamline delivered yet another masterclass performance, defying the odds and quelling the relentless onslaught of a determined Flying Titans squad.
Fueled by their unparalleled championship pedigree, forged through 11 finals appearances and seven title triumphs, the Cool Smashers exuded confidence and tenacity throughout the grueling two-hour and 12-minute encounter.
With their backs against the wall in most sets, Creamline showcased its trademark never-say-die spirit, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Jema Galanza and Tots Carlos, who orchestrated a symphony of power and finesse on the court.
The fourth set epitomized Creamline’s relentless pursuit of victory, clawing its way back from a 5-9 deficit behind a barrage of blistering attacks that left their opponents reeling. With each thunderous spike and fiery block, the Cool Smashers not only tore the Flying Titans’ defense but also cemented their status as the team to beat, primed for an unprecedented third consecutive AFC crown and eight overall championship.
Galanza, whose stellar 20-point performance earned her the coveted Best Player of the Game honors, underscored the team’s unwavering resolve and fighting spirit. Reflecting on their key triumph, she emphasized the team’s collective determination and camaraderie, highlighting their refusal to succumb to adversity.
“Ayokong matapos ang game na ito na hindi kami mananalo,” said Galanza.
They indeed asserted their dominance early in the first frame, commanding a significant seven-point lead. However, a sudden reversal of fortune saw them relinquish their advantage, leading to a setback that might have shattered the confidence of a team less resilient.
“Kapag nakikita mo ang mga teammates mo na lumalaban at nagchi-cheer, sino kami para sumuko? Ilalaban talaga namin. Kaya sobrang sarap sa feeling na nakuha naming ito,” added the former Adamson U standout.
The victory also served as a resounding re-affirmation of Creamline’s dominance over Choco Mucho, which it had beaten in their first 12 faceoffs before the Flying Titans snapped the spell with a come-from-behind five-set win in the semis.
As they gear up for Game 2 of the best-of-three series on Sunday, the Cool Smashers remain poised to continue their march toward PVL glory, while Choco Mucho scrambles to devise the necessary adjustments to halt their rivals’ relentless advance.
Carlos backed Galanza with 17 markers while de Leon came off the bench to fire 11 points and Alyssa Valdez, Pons, Gumabao, and Pangs Panaga added nine, eight, seven and five points, respectively, to underscore Creamline’s balanced offensive sock.
Sisi Rondina soared for another 27-point performance while Royse Tubino came through with 15 markers and Isa Molde, Maddie Madayag, Maika Ortiz and Deanna Wong combined for 19 points. Despite their best efforts, the Flying Titans faltered in delivering the decisive finishing kick required to overcome opponents as talented and skilled as the Cool Smashers.
-8126.jpg)
