Creamline secured its second win in as many games by defeating debuting Gerflor, 25-18, 25-11, 25-12, in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Thursday.
The Cool Smashers claimed the top spot in Pool A with a flawless 2-0 record, while giving the Defenders a disappointing start.
“Syempre, medyo nagsimula kaming mabagal pero nakabawi naman kami mula sa mabagal na simula. Talagang nag-contribure yung mga players kaya masaya kami sa laro na ito at nakuha namin ang panalo,” said Creamline head coach Sherwin Meneses.
Gerflor managed to keep up with Creamline halfway through the first set, with the score tied at 15-all. However, Tots Carlos, Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, and Ced Domingo unleashed a strong finish to secure the 1-0 lead with a score of 25-18.
The Cool Smashers dominated the Defenders right from the start of the second set, establishing a comfortable 14-4 lead and maintaining their advantage throughout to secure a commanding 2-0 margin.
Creamline replicated their dominance in the third set, establishing an early 14-6 lead and clinching victory with a score of 25-12.
Carlos once again led the scoring for the Cool Smashers with 15 points, while Jema Galanza contributed 10 points with eight attacks and two service aces. Domingo added eight points, and all 12 Creamline players scored at least a point in the 82-minute victory.
Defenders captain Justine Dorog and Andrea Marza each delivered six points, with Dorog also recording six digs. Alyssa Bertolano contributed five points and 18 excellent receptions.
Both teams will return to the Philsports Arena on July 13, following the league’s week-long break for the country’s hosting of the Volleyball Nations League. Creamline will face PLDT at 4 p.m., while Gerflor aims for its first victory against Chery Tiggo in the earlier match at 9:30 a.m.
