Criss Cross moved within striking distance of back-to-back titles after defeating Savouge in four sets, 25-20, 26-28, 25-18, 25-20, in Game 1 of the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Finals on Wednesday at the Filoil Centre.
(C) Spikers’ Turf Images
Jude Garcia once again led the charge for the King Crunchers, erupting for a game-high 26 points built on 23 attacks and three kill blocks in a commanding performance that underscored his four-time MVP pedigree.
Adrian Villados, meanwhile, orchestrated the offense with precision, tallying 29 excellent sets along with two points as he kept Criss Cross’ attack in rhythm from start to finish.
Jaron Requinton and Noel Kampton also stepped up on both ends, especially in the absence of starting outside hitter Alche Gupiteo, who sat out the game due to a minor right shoulder injury.
Requinton delivered 18 points on 13 attacks, two aces, and one block, along with eight excellent digs, while Kampton registered a double-double of 12 points and 18 excellent receptions in the victory that moved them closer to their first Open Conference championship.
“Sobrang saya ko sa ginawa ng team namin, actually full team work talaga siya kasi kahit ‘yung mga nasa bench full support sila sa amin sa court,” said Requinton, who started in place of Gupiteo and was named Player of the Game.
“Super happy din ako sa performance namin sa loob ng court, sa charisma namin sa loob ng court, kasi lumabas ‘yung pinagtrabahuhan namin for the past two days,” he added.
The King Crunchers broke the game wide open in the fourth set at the second technical timeout, as Garcia and Lloyd Josafat came up with back-to-back emphatic blocks on Louie Ramirez and JP Bugaoan to cap a 16-10 surge before slamming the door shut and preventing the Spin Doctors from mounting a comeback.
(C) Spikers’ Turf Images
Criss Cross also leaned on its vaunted blocking to dominate at the net, finishing with 16 kill blocks while capitalizing on 26 errors from Savouge to maintain firm control of the match.
The King Crunchers will look to clinch their first-ever Open Conference title in Game 2 on Friday at 5 p.m. at the same venue.
On the other hand, Mark Calado was the lone bright spot for Savouge with 23 points on 22 attacks and one kill block.
Bugaoan added 10 points on seven attacks and three blocks, while Giles Torres and Louie Ramirez each chipped in seven points. Shawie Caritativo was limited to just five.
