PVL: Creamline outshines Petro Gazz in marquee duel

Creamline celebrates during a win over Petro Gazz in the PVL Reinforced Conference.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Courtney Schwan delivered in the clutch as Creamline exacted sweet revenge against its All-Filipino tormentor, Petro Gazz, 25-20, 25-21, 17-25, 25-20, in the PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday night at Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Schwan stepped up especially late in the fourth set, where she dropped three straight points to give the Cool Smashers a 22-18 cushion.

READ: Mixed emotions for Creamline’s Courtney Schwan after PVL debut

Brooke Van Sickle cut Creamline’s lead to two with back-to-back kills before Schwan scored again and Pangs Panaga put Creamline on the verge of victory after blocking Van Sickle. In the right place at the right time, Kyla Atienza’s save won the game after Petro Gazz libero Jellie Tempiatura’s attempt to dig it went out.

Schwan fired 27 points built on 24 kills and three blocks to go with 16 excellent receptions as Creamline bounced back from a tough five-set loss to Akari and tie Petro Gazz at 1-1 in Pool B.

“I’m feeling much better, every day, every practice. We’re incorporating some new things every day. We’re trying a little bit more back row. We’re trying to connect a little bit more with the setters,” said Schwan.

“I’ve learned different things work for different times, so if one thing’s not working, I need to use a different tool in my toolbox. It’s just good to have everything and I think, sometimes, being smart and very helpful, like I showed today.”

Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos had 14 points each, with the former tallying 14 digs and 13 excellent receptions.

READ: PVL: Akari finally solves Creamline puzzle

“We were honestly really excited to face Petro Gazz, knowing that every match between Petro Gazz and Creamline is always a good one,” said Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses. “The players were excited too, so the game turned out well—especially in the fourth set when we caught up and managed to hold on to the lead.”

Creamline flies to Ilagan City for its duel against winless Galeries Tower on Saturday.

Van Sickle paced the Angels with 26 points off 23 kills, two aces, and a block. Lindsey Vander Weide had 17 points, 14 digs, and 10 excellent receptions.

Petro Gazz hopes to get back on track on Saturday against Chery Tiggo.