By KRISTEL SATUMBAGA
Creamline reaffirmed its mastery over sister team Choco Mucho with a convincing 25-17, 25-22, 25-19 victory on Thursday night, April 18, to strengthen its semifinal bid in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the jam packed Smart Araneta Coliseum.
In a rematch of last conference’s finals, the Cool Smashers displayed their vast championship experience to outwit the Flying Titans and seize a share of the lead with their victims both with similar 8-2 win-loss records.
The triumph not only halted Choco Mucho’s bid for an outright semis berth but also snapped the Flying Titans’ four-game winning run.
Tots Carlos spearheaded the charge of Creamline by erupting for 21 points built on 18 kills and three blocks, while skipper Alyssa Valdez flashed her vintage form and pumped in 11 points before an ecstatic 17,396 fans.
As expected, the Cool Smashers showcased their offensive prowess with Carlos and Valdez at the forefront of their assault, but their sturdy defense headed by Pangs Panaga spelled the difference in thwarting the Flying Titans’ attacks.
So solid were Creamline’s defense that they posted 14 blocks including five from Panaga.
As if it was not enough, only five players scored for Choco Mucho with Sisi Rondina posting 17 points in a losing effort.
“We’re just glad that slowly, our training is showing in our games. We’re just thankful for our coaching staff because they’ve been very patient to remind us kung ano yung mga dapat naming gawin,” said Valdez.
Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses also lauded his stalwarts against a formidable foe in Choco Mucho, but reminded his players that their job is far from over.
“May isa pang game. Trabaho muna, yun ang unang mindset namin,” said Meneses, referring to their last preliminary game against PLDT next Thursday, April 25.
Panaga also finished with 11 points for the Cool Smashers, while Kyle Negrito delivered a variety of smart plays with 17 excellent sets on top of two points.
