Jaron Requinton made the most of his starting opportunity as Criss Cross cruised past VNS-Laticrete in straight sets, 25-19, 25-12, 25-22, to notch a winning debut in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Friday night at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig City.
The King Crunchers showcased their experience and finesse, dominating the retooled Griffins from start to finish. With the win, they joined early leaders Savouge and defending champion Cignal atop the standings in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Stepping into the lineup in place of Nico Almendras — who was unavailable after recently tying the knot with longtime partner Justine Pesigan — Requinton rose to the occasion.
The former UST beach volleyball standout led all scorers with 15 points, tallying 12 attacks, three blocks, and five excellent receptions.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
“Masaya po ako sa naging performance ng team namin ngayon kasi kahit may mga biglang changes, nagawa pa rin naming mabuo as a team and naging okay naman ‘yung performance namin sa loob ng court since wala si Nico (Almendras),” said Requinton.
“So ‘yung pag-sub ko sa kanya, naging okay naman. Meron naman kaming gel ng first six kaya siguro naging ganun ‘yung resulta ng game,” he added.
Reigning MVP Jude Garcia also made his presence felt, finishing with 13 points built on 10 attacks and three blocks, while Francis Saura chipped in 10 markers and five excellent digs.
Ish Polvorosa orchestrated the offense with 14 excellent sets, leading the King Crunchers to victory in just an hour and 12 minutes.
Criss Cross will look to continue its strong start when it faces new team Alpha Insurance on Sunday at 6:00 PM in the same venue.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Meanwhile, VNS struggled in its season debut despite off-season acquisitions Jayvee Sumagaysay, Rash Nursiddik, and Bryan Jaleco.
Kenneth Culabat paced the Griffins with eight points, while CJ Segui managed just seven markers along with 12 excellent receptions in the loss.
VNS aims to bounce back when it takes on PGJC-Navy on Sunday at 1:00 PM, seeking its first win of the tournament.
