Defending champion Criss Cross weathered Alpha Insurance’s challenge to extend its winning streak to three games, grinding out a 25-22, 21-25, 25-21, 25-19 victory in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Sunday night at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
Fresh off a reverse-sweep victory over Savouge, the King Crunchers once again showed their resilience against a determined opponent, improving to 3-0 and joining National University-Archipelago Builders and ClearSky in a three-way tie for the top spot in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Five-time MVP Jude Garcia spearheaded Criss Cross’ attack, delivering 22 points on 21 attacks and one block to help the defending champions preserve their unbeaten record. Garcia was coming off an explosive 25-point performance against the Spin Doctors.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
“It’s a total team effort pa rin po kasi kahit sinong ipasok sa loob ng court, nagco-contribute talaga so ginagawa nila ‘yung role ng bawat isa,” said Garcia after the win.
“Yun ‘yung maganda sa team namin eh, kumbaga, kahit sinong hugutin ni Coach Tai (Bundit) sa bench, nagde-deliver talaga. Sobrang thankful ako sa teammates ko, sa management, and sa coaches,” he added.
Although Criss Cross held the advantage in attacks, 59-51, Alpha Insurance proved equally threatening in other areas, claiming a 9-8 edge in blocks and a 6-1 advantage in service aces.
However, the King Crunchers remained composed under pressure, taking advantage of 28 errors from the Protectors to maintain control and close out the match in four sets.
Amil Pacinio continued to provide consistent support, tallying 16 points on 15 attacks and one ace, while Ariel Cacao energized the offense off the bench with 20 excellent sets.
Kim Malabunga added nine points off the bench, while Noel Kampton and Lloyd Josafat contributed six points apiece for Criss Cross.
The King Crunchers will look to stretch their winning streak to four games when they face NU on November 4 at 1 p.m. at the same venue.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Meanwhile, Alpha Insurance suffered its second consecutive defeat, slipping into a four-way tie for fifth to eighth place with Savouge, 3B, and AEP-Cabstars. All four teams hold identical 1-2 records.
Axel Van Book led the Protectors with 21 points and 15 excellent receptions, while Reymark Betco chipped in 14 points and Vince Himzon added 10.
Alpha Insurance will aim to get back on track against AEP-Cabstars on November 4 at 3 p.m.
