Creamline Cool Smashers’ Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos, and Alyssa Valdez. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Creamline turned to the troika of Jema Galanza, Tots Carlos, and Alyssa Valdez to sweep the Eya Laure-led Chery Tiggo, 25-18, 27-25, 25-22, and take Game 1 of the best-of-three semifinals series in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) second All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at Philsports Arena.
The Cool Smashers, who tried different rotations and combinations when they swept the 11-game elimination round, brought out their hard-hitting trio as Galanza led the charge with 17 points, nine excellent receptions, and seven digs.
“I didn’t expect this. But I played like that with the help of my teammates. They make it easier for me,” said Galanza in Filipino after hitting 16-of-30.
Reigning MVP Carlos had 15 points and 12 digs, while Valdez, who sat out in their last eliminations game, flipped the switch with 12 points including the last three points of the second set, where they fought back from a 22-24 disadvantage.
“We all know Chery will give us a good fight. Every point, we’ll have to work hard. We trust each other. Our coaches want us to give our all and we got our reward,” said Valdez.
Creamline Cool Smasher’s Alyssa Valdez. -MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.NET
Creamline tries to sweep the series on Saturday, eyeing its 10th finals appearance — sixth straight All-Filipino Conference finals.
“The fight is not over. We need one more win to reach the finals. We will continue to train and work on our lapses so we can play better,” said Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses.
The Cool Smashers erased a 15-17 deficit in the third as Kyle Negrito’s block capped their 6-0 run for a 20-17 lead. Jeanette Panaga nailed a quick attack to reach matchpoint, 24-21, before Galanza’s attack error. Mylene Paat’s attack went to the net, easily handing the win to Creamline.
Laure was the lone bright spot for the Crossovers with a game-high 18 points, while Cza Carandang and Paat had nine points each.