NEGROS OCCIDENTAL – Creamline gave the volleyball fans of Victorias City exactly what they came for – a showcase of the brand of volleyball that has made the Cool Smashers one of the PVL’s most formidable teams.
Even with nothing at stake in the standings, Creamline and Galeries Tower played with the intensity and class of a regular-season showdown. The Highrisers produced their share of spirited exchanges and impressive stretches, but the multi-titled Cool Smashers simply had too much talent, polish and experience.
Creamline pulled away at the crucial moments to fashion out a 25-21, 25-16, 25-21 victory over Galeries Tower and close out the PVL On Tour Showdown here late Saturday in Victorias City Coliseum.
“We’re just happy to win,” said crowd favorite Alyssa Valdez, who earned the game’s top honors after scoring 10 points. “It’s the motivation and inspiration to keep improving and stay in shape for our fans from different parts of the country.”
Creamline, bolstered by the much-anticipated debut of Japanese recruit Sachi Minowa (Jaja Santiago), squandered an early 4-0 lead in the third set but rallied from a three-point deficit late in the frame before displaying the endgame poise that has defined their rise to the top of the PVL throne time and again.
The win capped the six-week On Tour Showdown, a traveling preseason series that brought top-level volleyball action to Isabela, Batangas City, Ilocos Sur, Cotabato City, Lanao del Norte and Negros Occidental.
Jema Galanza finished with seven points, while Minowa, Pangs Panaga ang Tots Carlos added six points apiece for the Cool Smashers.
“It’s overwhelming to play again here, especially in Bacolod. Sobrang dami ng supporters ng both teams dito sa Victorias Arena,” Minowa said.
Although the preseason encounter carried no bearing on the standings, the former Chery Tiggo standout’s debut was eagerly awaited – and warmly received – by more than 7,000 crowd that erupted every time she stepped into the action.
Earlier, Farm Fresh rallied to beat Capital1, 20-25, 25-19, 22-25, 25-12, 15-10.
