Criss Cross extended its dominant run, sweeping FEU-DN Steel in straight sets, 25-21, 25-21, 25-11, to open the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Semifinals round with an emphatic victory on Wednesday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
Determined to avoid the mistakes they made in their semifinal opener against D’Navigators Iloilo in the season-opening Open Conference, the King Crunchers showcased improved focus and execution to secure a decisive win.
“Actually, for the past few trainings namin, as in pinapagalitan ko talaga ‘yung team na kailangan mag-focus na tayo ngayon kasi last conference ng Spikers’ Turf, medyo nag-relax kami, nadelikado kami,” said team captain Ysay Marasigan.
“Nakatsamba kami last time kaya kami nakapasok ng finals, pero ngayon hindi na pwede ‘yung ganun. Hindi na pwede ‘yung relaxed, hindi na pwede ‘yung complacent. Sobrang naka-focus talaga kami sa lahat ng instructions ni Coach Tai [Bundit],” he added.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Criss Cross found itself in tight battles in the first two sets but demonstrated its experience and composure. It broke away from the younger Ultras with a blistering 16-5 start in the third set.
Led by Jude Garcia and Marasigan, the King Crunchers closed out the match in just one hour and 18 minutes.
Garcia delivered a standout performance, tallying 18 points, including 13 attacks from 21 attempts, four service aces, and a block. Marasigan added 12 points and four excellent digs, helping the team secure its seventh consecutive win.
Anchoring the defense, Gian Glorioso registered six kill blocks and finished with nine points.
Nico Almendras and Rex Intal also contributed six points apiece, with Almendras chipping in 11 excellent receptions.
Playmaker Ish Polvorosa orchestrated the offense efficiently with 16 excellent sets.
The King Crunchers now aim to extend their winning streak when they face rivals Cignal on Sunday at 6:00 PM, also at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
On the other hand, FEU-DN Steel continued its struggles, opening the semifinals with a 0-1 record following their elimination-round losses to Criss Cross and Cignal.
Dryx Saavedra led the Ultras with 15 points, all from attacks, while Mikko Espartero added nine markers in what became their third consecutive defeat.
FEU will look to bounce back and avoid falling to 0-2 when they clash with the HD Spikers on Friday at 4:00 PM in the same venue.
