In a heart-pounding showdown with their title defense hanging in the balance, Jema Galanza emerged as the beacon of hope for Creamline in a crucial clash against Petro Gazz during the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference round-robin semifinals.
Galanza, the former league MVP, showcased her prowess by tallying a game-high 23 points, a remarkable feat that included crucial plays in the dying moments of the game.
With 16 excellent digs and 14 excellent receptions to her name, she played a pivotal role in guiding her team to a nail-biting tie against the Angels, both boasting identical 1-1 records.
Reflecting on the intense match, Galanza expressed her elation, stating, “Syempre happy kami na nailaban namin. May mga parts ng game na parang kakayanin pa ba namin? Makakahabol pa ba kami? mananalo ba kami?" said an emotional Galanza.
“Pero inisip lang namin na sa dami ng pagsubok namin ngayong conference, andaming nagdududa (samin) pero kami eto nasa harap niyo, kami yung mga taong hindi mawawala yung tiwala sa isa't isa. Kaya naglaro kami ng lahat. Kaya nilaban talaga namin tong game na to.”
When Petro Gazz attempted a final surge to salvage the game, Galanza rose to the occasion.
The 27-year-old outside spiker from San Pedro, Laguna, rescued Creamline from a precarious 22-24 deficit in the fourth set.
With precision, she maneuvered past the Angels' blockers, securing a crucial point before Jonah Sabete's attack error leveled the match at 24.
Galanza then sealed the deal with two consecutive points, clinching a vital victory for the defending champions.
Despite the immense pressure, Galanza thrived, crediting her success to the guidance of head coach Sherwin Meneses.
“Sabi sa amin ni coach na ang sarap maglaro kasi maliban sa madaming audience yung pressure andon and doon kasi namin… parang ang sarap maglaro ng may pressure minsan kasi yung gigil, nate-test mo yung sarili paano ka maglaro,” said Galanza.
Galanza remains unsatisfied with her performance, setting her sights on improvement as Creamline prepares to face Chery Tiggo next.
“Malayo pa, ‘di pa tapos eh. Kumbaga, ako hindi pa ako nasa-satisfy sa nilalaro namin kasi wala pa kami sa dulo so malalaman namin ‘yan ‘pag nandon na kami sa goal namin.”
