Creamline Cool Smashers. PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Creamline exacted sweet revenge against its first-round tormentor Cignal, 25-17, 25-15, 25-22, on Monday to move a win closer to reaching the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference gold medal match at Mall of Asia Arena.
Tots Carlos delivered another explosive scoring performance with 21 points built on 18 attacks, two blocks, and an ace and had 11 digs, as the Cool Smashers dominated the HD Spikers in attacking, 50-25, to earn their third win in the semifinal round in one hour and 28 minutes.
Star setter Jia De Guzman scattered 26 excellent sets and had three points to pace Creamline’s formidable offense. Jema Galanza had 11 points. Celine Dominga chipped in nine points, while Alyssa Valdez added seven markers and 16 digs.
Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses said his wards showed more composure in today’s game unlike their four-set loss to Cignal in the elimination round two weeks ago in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.
“I think the composure is okay today. Because last game, we were getting the lead but we were not able to sustain it and win the set. We learned our lesson when we lost that match that a set is not over until the score reaches 25,” said Meneses in Filipino. “We just learned yesterday that we will face Cignal. We just played our game.”
The Cool Smashers go for a semis sweep against KingWhale Taipei (1-0) on Friday at FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan.
“We’re excited to play against Taipei. That’s our focus right now. We will give them a good fight,” Meneses said.
Cignal fell on the brink of being relegated to the bronze medal match after absorbing its second loss in three matches.
Nobody from the HD Spikers scored in double figures with Ces Molina and Rose Doria leading the way with eight points each, while Rachel Anne Daquis was limited to just five markers and had 10 excellent receptions.