Photo by Tristan Tamayo/INQUIRER.net
With Alyssa Valdez cheering, Creamline proved it can win minus its superstar spiker even in the big stage.
The Cool Smashers improved to 4-0 without Valdez in the Premier Volleyball League Open Conference and it won’t be of any surprise if they end up winning it all in the absence of the three-time UAAP MVP.
“The team is capable of winning without her,” said Creamline assistant coach Oliver Almadro after the Cool Smashers downed BaliPure in five sets in Game 1 of semifinals Saturday.
READ: Valdez-less Creamline survives Bali, nears finals
“The team is ready to play without Alyssa.”
Valdez is expected to miss the rest of the playoffs to prioritize her national team commitments but she is confident Creamline can get the job done.
After all, the Cool Smashers have easily figured out how to play sans Valdez, whose contributions are nearly impossible to replicate.
And it’s all about playing collectively.
READ: Valdez out for Creamline for remainder of PVL conference
On Saturday, Creamline did just that with Rose Vargas leading the way with 19 points.
Pau Soriano added 18 points while Jing Balse turned back the clock with 10 points, four of which off blocks.
“They’ve already played without me and everyone stepped up. I’m just really happy and proud of the team,” said Valdez.
“The players showed their heart,” Almadro said.
READ: LVPI okays Valdez return to Creamline for playoffs
Valdez thinks Creamline will be up to the task of sweeping BaliPure less than 24 hours from now in Game 2.
Momentum is with Creamline, but Almadro knows it will take more if the team wants to continue its winning ways.
“I guess it’s going to be the mentality of the players for tomorrow’s game. We hope to duplicate our heart and intensity.”