Tots Carlos and Bernadeth Pons took center stage, carrying on the momentum initiated by Michele Gumabao and Alyssa Valdez, guiding Creamline to a hard-fought win against Petro Gazz in a gripping five-set match played under the Thursday night lights.
Transitioning from bench players to game-changers, Carlos and Pons infused much-needed vigor into the Cool Smashers during the fourth set, extinguishing the threat posed by the formidable Angels.
For Coach Sherwin Meneses, the decision to initially have the former University of the Philippines and Far Eastern University top players on the bench was circumstantial, and he refrained from labeling them as mere "bench players."
"Our team delivered everything; that's what's crucial in these matches, genuine collaboration," Meneses remarked after the team's thrilling 25-22, 23-25, 25-27, 25-19, 15-13 victory at the Philsports Arena. "Our bench players are not just bench players; they are the ones who had the opportunity to finish the game, and they delivered."
Gumabao showcased her prowess with 19 points, dominating the first three sets, while Valdez contributed eight crucial points in four sets, stepping in as a substitute during the fourth set.
Carlos, exploding with 16 points, entered the game in the first three sets from the bench and stayed on the court for the entire fourth and fifth sets. Pons added eight points in two sets, further solidifying their impact.
Amid their heroic contributions, Carlos revealed a pivotal conversation with Pons as they prepared to enter the game during a critical juncture with Creamline trailing. "Before Pons and I entered, we told each other that what needed to change was the mood of the team, so we started with happiness, with the enjoyment of the team, and it continued."
Nevertheless, Carlos emphasized that their turnaround was a collective effort. Every player on the court and those on the sidelines played a crucial role, often beyond the confines of the stat sheet. "I think it was not just me and Pons. I think it was the whole team. We just really helped the team bring out what we've been training."
Pons, motivated to make an impact against the veteran-laden Petro Gazz, reflected on her first encounter with the team. "Going into this game, I really wanted to win this game; it's my first time facing Petro Gazz. Before, I just watched them; Creamline and Petro Gazz always had intense matches, so I also wanted to experience how the battle between Creamline and Petro Gazz goes."
In the end, it was a collective effort that witnessed Creamline emerging triumphant, with Carlos and Pons etching their names into the narrative of a thrilling victory that highlighted teamwork, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the Cool Smashers.
