‘NO sweep.’
CHERY Tiggo sent defending champion Creamline reeling in a 25-18, 26-24, 25-23 straight-sets stunner in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Saturday at the Sta. Rosa Sports Complex.
The Crossovers put an end to the Cool Smashers’ 19-game win streak, dealing the multi-titled team its first sweep loss since 2019 against Petro Gazz.
Jen Nierva posted 20 digs and 10 receptions against Creamline’s star-studded offense for Chery Tiggo's third win in five games this conference — and first win over the Cool Smashers since their 2021 Ilocos bubble title showdown.
“I’m just so happy na dumating kami sa point na nag-gel kami inside the court. Siguro ‘yung familiarity [ng players], with the help of our coaches […] Hangga’t meron tayong kakalabanin, meron tayong chance manalo. Hindi porket nasa taas sila, sila na ‘yung panalo. Kaya natin ‘tong baguhin," said Nierva.
Eya Laure, who racked up 14 points on 12 attacks, adopted the mindset instilled by team captain Aby Maraño and the coaching staff following a loss to Farm Fresh.
“Syempre Creamline, sila ‘yung nasa taas, kami ‘yung nasa baba ngayon. So, sabi nga ng mga coaches, mas hungry dapat kami na abutin ‘yung taas […] kasi wake-up call yung nangyari sa amin sa Farm Fresh. Yun talaga, ramdam na ramdam namin yung gising," said Laure.
The first frame saw the Crossovers effectively slowing down Cool Smashers' offensive onslaught. Veteran Ara Galang showcased her vintage form, adding to the intensity of Chery Tiggo's offensive arsenal.
“Masaya ako kasi nagawa namin ‘yung mga roles namin, bawat isa. Parang naging connected talaga kami sa isa’t isa, kahit sinong ipasok,” said Galang.
Chery Tiggo dashes Creamline comeback
Despite Creamline showing signs of life, spurred on by Jema Galanza and Tots Carlos, resulting in a close 15-13 score in the third set, Chery Tiggo's defense kept the Cool Smashers from seizing control.
Galang tallied 10 points, with additional contributions from Mylene Paat with 9
points and Maraño with 6 points.
Meanwhile, Galanza and Carlos led the charge for the Cool Smashers, registering 13 and 12 points, respectively.
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