Kim Malabunga powered Criss Cross to a dominant 25-21, 25-19, 25-21 sweep of Alpha Insurance, securing the King Crunchers’ second consecutive victory in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference on Sunday night at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.
Malabunga delivered a game-high 17 points — his best performance since suffering injuries to both his right and left ankles — as the King Crunchers joined defending champion Cignal at the top of the standings with identical 2-0 records in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
“Masasabi ko lang sa performance namin ngayon, ‘yun kasi ‘yung tini-training namin nung mga nakaraang araw kasi kaka-start lang ng Spikers’ Turf. Pinaghandaan talaga namin ‘yung service, blockings kasi ‘yun talaga ‘yung kailangan,” said the Alas Pilipinas standout.
(C) Spikers’ Turf Images
With Alpha Insurance threatening to force a fourth set, Jaron Requinton — who retained his spot in the starting lineup despite the return of Nico Almendras — delivered three points in a crucial 4-1 run that gave Criss Cross a 22-18 advantage.
Edward Camposano and Malabunga then exchanged hits before Alpha Insurance responded with two quick points off a Vincent Nadera cross-court attack and a Chu Njigha error, cutting the deficit to 21-23.
However, Rommelito Baptista committed a costly service error, and JJ Javelona’s attack sailed long, sealing Criss Cross’ second straight win in the tournament supported by Arena Plus and Mikasa.
Reigning MVP Jude Garcia contributed 13 points and 13 excellent receptions for the King Crunchers, while Requinton recorded his second consecutive double-digit performance with 10 points.
Setter Ish Polvorosa orchestrated the offense with 17 excellent sets.
Criss Cross aims for a third straight victory when it faces PGJC-Navy on Wednesday at 3:30 PM at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
(C) Spikers’ Turf Images
Meanwhile, Alpha Insurance suffered its second straight loss in its Spikers’ Turf debut.
Team captain Camposano led the young squad with 13 points, while Javelona and Ranz Cajolo added eight and six markers, respectively.
The Protectors will look to secure their first win against Savouge on Wednesday at 1:00 PM.
