The Creamline Cool Smashers have been inconsistent throughout in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, and their sporadic play has dragged them to a 3-6 record and out of contention for a top two spot and automatic semis berth.
Given their situation, Creamline have decided to rest star Alyssa Valdez for their remaining elimination round games. Earlier today, Valdez played barely any minutes in a five-set loss to the Bali Pure Water Defenders.
The three-time PVL MVP had begun experiencing right ankle pain earlier in the season, making the move to rest her more reasonable.
“Sabi ng mga doctors kailangan lang mag-rest and therapy lang,” the 23-year-old shared about the ankle pain.
While the former Ateneo de Manila University Lady Eagle still wanted to play the full match, she had to settle for being the temporary service specialist. Creamline made the most out of the situation, configuring their lineup to hopefully patch up weak spots, like trying Cesca Racraquin at libero.
“Originally talaga yun naman talaga [ang plan na off-the-bench]. Kapag tinawag ka naman, talaga kailangan mo ring mag-perform.
“More than the loss, we are looking at the improvement of lahat ng mga players din sa team namin. Naga-adjust din, si Cesca ginawang libero today so maraming adjustment going to the next round. At least maganda rin naman ang ipinapakita. Sabi nina coach, kailangan lang namin ng kaunting push,” said the three-time PVL MVP.
The Cool Smashers are looking at a grueling gauntlet of matches in the quarterfinals. While a win is important in their last elimination round match on Thursday, the Cool Smashers want to prioritize developing their chemistry.
“More than the win kailangan naming maglaro as a team. Kailangan naming ma-correct lahat ng mga mistakes and kailangan naming makuha ang click sa latter part of the game to finish strong also,” Creamline’s skipper stated.
