[ad_1]
Creamline Cool Smashers. Photo PVL
MANILA, Philippines – Even without Alyssa Valdez, Creamline needed just three sets to defeat rival Petro Gazz, 25-18, 25-20, 25-22, to start their 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference campaign on a high note on Saturday at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
With three-time MVP Valdez out of the game with a right knee injury, the Cool Smashers stepped up to fill the void as Michele Gumabao shined as the starting spiker, while Celine Domingo endured a stellar, breakout performance. winter last year.
Gumabao and Domingo each scored 13 points and put the finishing touches on the third set, allowing the team to come back from a 21-22 deficit by scoring four straight points capped by Jonah Sabete’s anti-climactic attack error.
Reigning Tots Conference MVP Carlos delivered the goods as the opening spiker with 11 points, 15 impressive receptions, and nine digs. Jeanette Panaga scored 10 markers, including four blocks, while setter Jia De Guzman made 27 impressive sets.
“All our players are willing to step up. Whoever checks on the court knows their role. All of them are leaders. They also know the system so that it is not difficult to manage,” Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses said in Filipino.
“We are happy with the win. We all know that Petro Gazz is the team that won the last conference. Our service received work in an important part. Hopefully, we can maintain a good service as the season progresses.
Creamline joins sister team Choco Mucho as opening day winners.
Oliver Almadro’s coaching debut with Petro Gazz was marred by the fact that he hasn’t beaten Creamline since 2019 when he was with Choco Mucho.
The Conference’s best middle blocker MJ Phillips is in road clothes with a shoulder injury.
Aiza Maizo-Pontillas and Nicole Tiamzon led the Angels with 10 points each, while Grethcel Soltones added nine points.
RELATED STORY
Your subscription cannot be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.
Read Next
Subscribe to INQUIRER PLUS to get access to The Philippine Daily Inquirer & 70+ other titles, share up to 5 gadgets, listen to news, download from 4am & share articles on social media. Call 896 6000.
For suggestions, complaints, or questions, please contact us.
[ad_2]
Source link