MANILA — The defending champions sent a clear message to the rest of the field: even without their biggest star on the floor, they remain the team to beat.
The Creamline Cool Smashers showcased their championship depth and cohesion, overpowering the Capital1 Solar Energy Solar Spikers, 25-18, 26-24, 25-20, to climb to 3-1 in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference over the weekend at the Playtime FilOil Centre in San Juan.
With veteran icon Alyssa Valdez surprisingly not fielded throughout the match, Creamline hardly missed a beat as Bernadeth Pons anchored the offense with 14 points on 12 attacks, one block, and one service ace to earn Player of the Game honors.
The Talisay City, Negros Occidental-native volleybelle also provided emotional lift, stressing the squad’s steady mindset despite the absence of one of its leaders.
“Inispread lang namin ‘yung good vibes sa loob ng court. Whether lamang kami o hindi, inenjoy lang namin ‘yung game,” said the former national beach volleyball team member.
Diana Carlos led all Cool Smashers with 15 points and 10 excellent digs, while Jessica Galanza delivered a double-double of 13 points and 13 excellent receptions, underscoring Creamline’s balanced attack and defensive discipline.
Capital1 leaned heavily on Mhicaela Belen, who erupted for a game-high 26 points along with nine excellent digs, but her explosive outing proved insufficient as the Solar Spikers slipped to a 2-3 record.
In the other match, Farm Fresh Foxies sustained their surge, dismantling ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles in straight sets, 25-14, 25-18, 25-18, for their second consecutive victory.
Jolina dela Cruz powered Farm Fresh with an efficient all-around performance, finishing with 13 points built on 10 attacks, two aces, and one block to bag Player of the Game honors.
Farm Fresh dictated the tempo from the outset, imposing its offensive rhythm and consistent floor defense to keep ZUS Coffee on the back foot.
The Foxies never allowed the Thunderbelles to establish momentum, maintaining intensity from start to finish.
With the victory, Farm Fresh evened its slate at 2-2, while sister team ZUS Coffee absorbed its second straight loss, dropping to 1-4 in the standings./PN
