Creamline put its indomitable spirit and unwavering championship poise on full display as it dismantled Choco Mucho in a thrilling four-set clash, leaving the Smart Araneta Coliseum pulsating with energy and excitement Thursday night.
Despite facing adversity in three of the sets, the Cool Smashers dug deep, rallying behind their seasoned veterans and resilient bench players to secure a hard-fought 24-26, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16 victory, inching closer to maintaining their throne in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference.
In front of a raucuous crowd of 17,457, adorned in hues of purple and pink, Creamline delivered yet another masterclass performance, defying the odds and quelling the relentless onslaught of a determined Flying Titans squad.
Fueled by their unparalleled championship pedigree, forged through 11 finals appearances and seven title triumphs, the Cool Smashers exuded confidence and tenacity throughout the grueling two-hour and 12-minute encounter.
With their backs against the wall in most sets, Creamline showcased its trademark never-say-die spirit, spearhead by the dynamic duo of Jema Galanza and Tots Carlos, who orchestrated a symphony of power and finesse on the court.
Supported by the gritty contributions of their bench, led by the likes of Bea de Leon, Michele Gumabao, Bernadette Pons and Mafe Galanza, the defending champions refused to relent, staging ferocious comebacks and seizing control when it mattered most.
“Syempre, hindi pa tapos yung laban. 1-0 pa lang,” said Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses, his eyes focused and determination palpable. “Kailangan talaga maka-dalawa ka so no need to celebrate talaga. Importante nakuha namin yung Game 1 then tatrabahuhin namin yung Game 2.”
The fourth set epitomized Creamline’s relentless pursuit of victory, clawing its way back from a 5-9 deficit behind a barrage of blistering attacks that left their opponents reeling. With each thunderous spike and fiery block, the Cool Smashers not only tore the Flying Titans’ defense but also cemented their status as the team to beat, primed for an unprecedented third consecutive AFC crown and eight overall championship.
Galanza, whose stellar 20-point performance earned her the coveted Best Player of the Game honors, underscored the team’s unwavering resolve and fighting spirit. Reflecting on their key triumph, she emphasized the team’s collective determination and camaraderie, highlighting their refusal to succumb to adversity.
“Ayokong matapos ang game na ito na hindi kami mananalo,” said Galanza.
They indeed asserted their dominance early in the first frame, commanding a significant seven-point lead. However, a sudden reversal of fortune saw them relinquish their advantage, leading to a setback that might have shattered the confidence of a team less resilient.
“Kapag nakikita mo ang mga teammates mo na lumalaban at nagchi-cheer, sino kami para sumuko? Ilalaban talaga namin. Kaya sobrang sarap sa feeling na nakuha naming ito,” added the former Adamson U standout.
