Both coming off victories, long-time rivals Creamline and Petro Gazz face off Saturday at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna in a vital encounter that could either propel or hinder their semifinal aspirations in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
The Cool Smashers charged back from two sets down to frustrate the Cignal HD Spikers, while the Angels overpowered the Capital1 Solar Spikers, both last March 26, improving their records to 6-1 and 5-2, respectively.
A Creamline victory would secure the defending champions the top spot or a share of the lead, edging them closer to another semifinal appearance. Conversely, a loss would tie Petro Gazz with Creamline at third place, with PLDT and Choco Mucho leading the pack with 6-1 marks.
The Flying Titans, however, have a lighter assignment in pursuit of a seventh win as they take on the Solar Spikers, who have only a win to show in seven games, at 4 p.m.
But all eyes will be on the 6 p.m. showdown between Creamline and Petro Gazz, a match that promises to be a display of firepower with the Cool Smashers boasting of top hitters like Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, Bernadeth Pons and Alyssa Valdez, while the Angels showcase the prolific Brooke Van Sickle, Jonah Sabete, Remy Palma, Aiza Pontillas and Myla Pablo.
Team cohesion will also be a crucial factor as both squads rely on their years of teamwork and chemistry to excel on the court. Despite Creamline’s dominance in their previous encounters, Petro Gazz remains a formidable opponent with Van Sickle blending well with the rest of the team and integrating into the Angels’ system.
The two teams had figured in four championships with Creamline winning three of them.
Meanwhile, Creamline will also be motivated to rebound from a tough loss to Chery Tiggo last March 16, also at the Sta. Rosa arena where the Cool Smashers had previously enjoyed a long winning streak.
On the other hand, Akari and Galeries Tower, with identical 2-5 cards, virtually knock each other out from the semis race at 2 p.m.
Games are telecast live on free-to-air on One Sports, in HD on One Sports+, as well as on the PVL’s official website (pvl.ph) and the Pilipinas Live app. Global coverage includes the new free-to-air channel – RPTV.
