Criss Cross rebounded from a shaky start to hand FEU-DN Steel its first defeat, 22-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-21, in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Sunday night at the Ynares Sports Arena.
The King Crunchers leaned on an outstanding performance from Open Conference MVP Jude Garcia, who also serves as an assistant coach for FEU Ultras. Garcia’s all-around brilliance propelled Criss Cross to a hard-fought victory, tying them with Cignal in second place with identical 5-1 records.
Garcia led all scorers with 19 points built on 14 attacks, four blocks, and an ace, while adding 16 excellent receptions in nearly two hours of intense action.
“Nakatulong din na players ko sila. Kumbaga, lahat ng ginagawa nila, alam ko rin eh. Nagtuturo ako, alam ko na rin ‘yung galaw nila. Malaking factor din ‘yun,” said Garcia, who previously led FEU to the finals in both indoor and beach volleyball during UAAP Season 81.
The Ultras threatened to push the match to a fifth set but were stymied by Nico Almendras and Gian Glorioso, whose pivotal plays sparked a 3-0 run to give Criss Cross a 20-15 lead in the fourth. Despite FEU’s repeated comeback attempts, Garcia and Marasigan delivered clutch plays to seal the win.
“Kudos din sa FEU, maganda ‘yung pinakita nilang laban. Ang intense ng match, so kailangan talaga ibigay namin ‘yung one hundred percent namin sa game,” added Garcia, a two-time Spikers’ Turf champion.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Glorioso, the Player of the Game, showcased his dominance at the net with 14 points from 10 attacks and four blocks. Almendras and Marasigan added 11 points each, with Almendras contributing 13 excellent receptions.
Setter Ish Polvorosa expertly orchestrated the King Crunchers’ offense, recording 23 excellent sets to further solidify Criss Cross’ semifinal bid in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Criss Cross will aim for its fourth straight win against the eliminated Chichi DHTSI on November 27, 4:00 p.m., at the same venue.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Meanwhile, FEU-DN Steel suffered its first defeat of the Invitational Conference, supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company, dropping to a 6-1 slate.
Dryx Saavedra led FEU with 15 points, while Mikko Espartero chipped in 12 points alongside six excellent digs. Doula Ndongala and Lirick Mendoza contributed 10 markers each.
FEU faces another tough test when they take on Cignal on Sunday, November 24, 6:00 p.m., also at Ynares.
