In a rematch of the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference Final, Creamline secured sweet revenge over defending champion Kurashiki, winning in four sets, 25-22, 25-22, 26-28, 25-21, for its second consecutive victory on Sunday at the SM Mall of Asia Arena.
The Cool Smashers had to bounce back from a tough third-set loss before closing out the match in the fourth, tying with Cignal at the top of the standings with identical 2-0 records.
“Sobrang proud. At least kahit papano, nakabawi kami sa kanila. Pero ‘di pa naman tapos ‘yung eliminations. May game kami bukas, mag-focus muna kami du’n kasi no time to practice kami. Focus kami sa Cignal muna ulit,” said Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
After failing to close out the third set, the Cool Smashers shrugged off the resilient Kurashiki squad, with Erica Staunton and Bernadeth Pons teaming up for a 5-0 run that gave Creamline a 19-14 lead, sealing the win.
American reinforcement Staunton, who only scored eight points in their previous match, bounced back with a game-high 21 points, 18 of which came from attacks, leading the Cool Smashers to their nearly two-hour victory.
“I’m very proud, but honestly, this is just such a hardworking team, and it’s full of competitors. There are quick turnarounds between games, but like I said, everybody’s a competitor, so I’m pretty ready for it,” said Staunton.
Michele Gumabao continued her strong performance, scoring 19 points on 17 attacks and two blocks, while Reinforced Conference MVP Pons contributed an all-around effort with 13 points, 21 excellent receptions, and 13 excellent digs.
Kyle Negrito orchestrated the offense with 19 excellent sets, adding eight points through five aces, two blocks, and one attack, while Jeanette Panaga chipped in with eight markers.
Creamline will look to secure a spot in the Finals when they face fellow unbeaten squad Cignal on Monday at the same venue.
(C) UAAP Season 87 Media Team
Kurashiki, meanwhile, suffered their first loss of the tournament, dropping to a 2-1 record. This defeat also marked their first loss in the PVL since winning the Invitational last year, ending an 8-0 winning streak.
Saya Taniguchi led the Ablaze with 14 points, while Saki Tanabe added 13 markers. Mami Gondo contributed 11 points, and Yukino Yano and Honoka Doi chipped in nine and eight points, respectively.
Reigning Finals MVP Kyoka Oshima dished out 22 excellent sets and added five points in the loss.
The Ablaze will take a two-day break before facing the HD Spikers on Wednesday at 6:00 p.m. at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
