The Creamline Cool Smashers slugged out another five-setter, finally solving the Bali Pure Water Defenders’ riddle, 24-26, 25-18, 18-25, 25-16, 16-14, to force a Game Three in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference semis at the PhilSports Arena.
After trading set wins all the way into a fifth set, Creamline got the best of Bali Pure to start the decider. Hits from imports Laura Schaudt and and Kuttika Kaewpin gave the Cool Smashers a 10-6 cushion. But Bali Pure’s six-foot-six reinforcement Jennifer Keddy had another last-ditch push in her, bringing Bali Pure all the way to match point, 14-13, with back-to-back blocks. From there, the Cool Smashers made all the big plays. Kuttika Kaewpin and Alyssa Valdez broke through in the following long rallies. Pau Soriano then pulled through with the big block on Keddy to end the match.
“Napunta sa amin ‘yung mga breaks noong fifth set. Pinaghirapan talaga namin lalo na ‘yung huling tatlong points. Grabe ‘yung pinakita kapit ng mga players,” said Creamline assistant coach Sherwin Meneses.
Thai open hitter Kaewpin managed 23 points, American converted middle blocker Shaudt added 22, while three-time PVL MVP Alyssa Valdez added 15.
Keddy managed 23 points off 16 attacks and seven blocks, while three-time NCAA MVP Grethcel Soltones added 16 markers.
After beating Bali Pure for the first time this season, Creamline can secure a seat in the Final with a win on Thursday at the PhilSports Arena.
The Scores
Creamline (3) – Kaewpin 23, Schaudt 22, Valdez 15, Soriano 8, Galanza 4, Cabanos 3, Palad 0, Raceaquin (L)
Bali Pure (2) – Keddy 23, Soltones 16, Malabanan 10, Sato 8, Bualee 8, Nabor 5, Urdas 1, Pantone (L)
