Creamline Cool Smashers returned to the top of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference after outlasting the Cignal HD Spikers, 25-23, 22-25, 25-16, 16-25, 15-11, in Game 2 of their best-of-three Finals on April 23 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Coming off a convincing Game 1 victory, the Cool Smashers showed no desire for an extended clash, digging deep in a grueling five-set battle to close out the series and secure their 11th PVL title.
Bernadeth Pons provided the much-needed spark for Creamline, tallying 22 points along with 25 excellent digs and 15 excellent receptions, enough to earn the Finals Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.
Both teams figured in a deciding fifth set after splitting the first four frames.
With momentum on their side, the Super Spikers built a 9-7 lead in the final frame, but Creamline responded with a quick 3-0 run to regain control.
The match tightened from there, with both sides trading points, until Ria Meneses Panaga denied Vanie Gandler at the net to give the Cool Smashers a 13-10 cushion.
Gandler kept Cignal within striking distance with a well-timed attack, but Tots Carlos responded to bring Creamline to championship point, before Pons delivered the finishing block to seal the title.
The Cool Smashers also leaned on Jema Galanza, who finished the game with 17 points—16 coming from attacks and one from a block—along with 13 receptions and 5 digs.
For the Super Spikers, Gandler, who was later named Conference MVP, put on a brilliant all-around performance, scoring 26 points—all from attacks.
Furthermore, she also recorded 14 excellent digs and 15 excellent receptions to lead the team in the losing effort.
Written by Rex Niel Falogme, Insight
Rex Niel Falogme, Insight is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
