Creamline Cool Smashers. PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Tots Carlos offered Creamline’s Game 1 win to all the fans who didn’t make it inside San Juan Arena on Friday.
Carlos unleashed 26 points off 21 attacks, four service aces and a block to power the Cool Smashers’ 25-18, 17-25, 25-19, 25-11 victory over Choco Mucho and move on the cusp of their sixth straight PVL Finals before a roaring 5, 368 fans at the venue.
The University of the Philippines standout dedicated the win to all the volleyball fans after some of them didn’t make it inside the venue after San Juan ran out of tickets.
“We really appreciate them for coming here especially for those who didn’t make it inside the venue. This game is for them,” said Carlos after nailing the game-winning ace to draw first blood of their best-of-three semifinals series.
Carlos felt great playing in front of an ecstatic crowd and she owed her 26-point explosion to her teammates.
“I’m feeling good! Our mindset and composure really helped us today. I just have to be consistent and trust and execute coach Sherwin (Meneses) ‘s game plan. As you can see it worked for us,” Carlos said.
“I won’t be able to do it (my performance) without the help of my teammates. If not for out middle blockers (Celine Domingo and Jeanette Panaga), I won’t get a single blocker. If not for ate Jia (De Guzman), I won’t convert those good attacks. I think it’s a collective effort,” she added.
The star opposite hitter was happy the league decided to bring its games to Mall of Asia Arena starting in Game 2 on Sunday to accommodate more spectators.
“I’m very excited for the fans because many of them didn’t make it inside today’s game. We’re really excited to see all of them again,” Carlos said.
