Despite a hard-fought comeback that fell short, Creamline’s Jema Galanza is not letting disappointment define her team’s pursuit of the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference crown.
After the Cool Smashers’ valiant effort to battle back from a two-set deficit ended in a heartbreaking 10-15 loss in the fifth set, Galanza remains steadfast in her belief that Creamline’s title defense is far from over.
The scene was set for a thrilling finish at the Smart Araneta Coliseum on Tuesday night, as the defending champions pushed Petro Gazz to the brink, clawing back from a 0-2 hole to tie the game at 2-2.
But the Angels found their rhythm when it mattered most, with MJ Phillips leading the charge in the decider to give Petro Gazz a crucial 1-0 lead in the series.
“It was really frustrating. We fought hard in the third and fourth sets, but we just couldn’t finish it in the fifth,” Galanza shared after the match. Despite the setback, the 5-foot-7 outside hitter remains hopeful.
“May Game 2 pa naman, hindi pa naman huli ang lahat. So magre-rest lang kami tonight and then prepare kami ulit tomorrow para sa next game,” she added, showing the resilience that has become a hallmark of Creamline's playoff runs.
Galanza, who had been benched in the previous games, was called into action in Game 1 and played a pivotal role in her team’s comeback. Coming off the bench, she scored 10 points — a remarkable contribution, especially considering her limited playtime in Creamline’s last two outings.
Head coach Sherwin Meneses explained before the game that Galanza’s absence from the starting lineup was a tactical decision, one based on match-ups, rather than any lingering health issues.
Her performance in Game 1 was a testament to her ability to step up when needed, but she and the rest of the team will need to adjust quickly as they face a must-win situation in Game 2. Galanza recognizes the importance of starting strong and setting the tone early in the next match.
“Siguro yung kailangan, una pa lang lumaban na kami agad. Kung kaya namin pumuntos ng anim, walo dire-diretso, una pa lang dapat ilaban namin,” she stressed.
Coach Meneses made crucial substitutions, including bringing Galanza in for Alyssa Valdez and Michele Gumabao for Tots Carlos, which sparked a temporary turnaround for Creamline. However, Petro Gazz’s MJ Phillips proved to be the difference maker in the fifth set, denying Creamline’s comeback hopes and propelling the Angels closer to their first-ever All-Filipino title.
Now, the Cool Smashers face an uphill battle to preserve their four-title streak and keep their All-Filipino crown. With no margin for error, Creamline must win two straight games to secure the championship.
But with a determined Galanza and her teammates’ unwavering fighting spirit, the defending champions are far from ready to surrender.
As Galanza put it: “HINDI PA NAMAN HULI ANG LAHAT.”
