PVL: Michele Gumabao powers Creamline past Cignal in Batangas

Creamline’s Michele Gumabao against Cignal in the PVL All-Filipino Conference in Batangas.–PVL PHOTO

MANILA, Philippines — Michele Gumabao led the way to tow undermanned Creamline past Cignal, 25-20, 25-20, 25-16, in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Saturday in front of 4,000 fans at Batangas City Sports Center.

Gumabao unleashed 20 points in her second straight start for the Cool Smashers sans eight-time Best Setter Jia De Guzman due to her Japan V.League stint and middle blocker Ced Domingo, who is set to join a Thai club soon. Kyla Atienza was also out with an undisclosed injury.

After playing sparingly in the opener of Creamline’s four-set win over Choco Mucho, reigning MVP Tots Carlos, chipped in 10 points on top of eight digs and eight receptions to help out libero Ella De Jesus, who had 10 digs in place of Atienza.

Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses expressed the team’s full support of Domingo in her upcoming Thailand stint.

“We’re very supportive just like what we felt for Jia. It’s a great opportunity for our players to play abroad and we won’t stop them,” said Meneses in Filipino.

“Our team is all about our system not as individual players. When you practice and study the system, you can lead our team.”

Creamline setter Kyle Negrito celebrates.–PVL PHOTO

Kyle Negrito had 13 excellent sets as Jeanette Panaga chipped in seven points including two blocks and two aces that sparked Creamline’s comeback from a 12-15 deficit in the second set, where the Cool Smashers unleashed eight straight points to gain a 20-15 advantage.

Alyssa Valdez continued to see limited action, appearing only in the second set and scoring three points including the last two hits in the frame.

“I think it was a good game for us because everyone contributed and led the team knowing that Cignal is a strong team,” said Meneses. “We almost can’t hear each other because of this good crowd. But our familiarity became our advantage.”

Creamline grabbed an early share of the lead with Petro Gazz and Chery Tiggo with identical 2-0 records and handed Cignal’s first defeat. The HD Spikers (1-1) slid to a quadruple tie with Choco Mucho, Akari, and PLDT.

Meneses assured Atienza’s return when they eye their third straight win against the winless Gerflor Defenders (0-2) on Thursday at Ynares Center Antipolo.

Invitationals MVP Ces Molina carried the HD Spikers with 17 points, while Vanie Gandler and returning Jov Gonzaga had six points each as they continue to miss Rachel Anne Daquis, who is in the US for a coaching camp.

Cignal battles Choco Mucho also on Thursday.