Full strength Creamline Cool Smashers battle tough PLDT High Speed Hitters in All-Filipino tourney – BusinessWorld Online
Games on Thursday
(FilOil Arena)
4 p.m. – Choco Mucho vs Cignal
6:30 p.m. – Creamline vs PLDT
CREAMLINE sets out to reclaim the PVL All-Filipino Conference title it last won two years ago while PLDT aims to claim its very first one this same stage as they face off on Thursday at the FilOil Arena.
The Creamline Cool Smashers will come in with their first complete lineup in years highlighted by the return of beloved setter Jia de Guzman and power spiker Bernadeth Pons from national team duties as well as Jema Galanza from injury.
They will battle at 6:30 p.m. the Manny V. Pangilinan-owned PLDT High Speed Hitters, who have kept the core that won them their first crowns — the PVL on Tour and Invitational — last year.
“We’re excited we’re complete again,” said Creamline captain Alyssa Valdez, who herself is now in full strength after battling various injuries the last couple of seasons.
Also expected to draw attention is the equally intriguing duel between Choco Mucho and Cignal at 4 p.m.
The Choco Mucho Flying Titans seized an early share of the lead after edging the Akari Chargers, 25-17, 25-23, 25-20, in Saturday’s opener with the dynamic duo of Sisi Rondina and newly acquired Eya Laure wreaking the most damage.
Equally impressive were the Cignal Super Spikers, who overpowered the Galeries Tower Highrisers, 25-17, 25-14, 25-11, that jump started their campaign.
The winner of this duel seizes the solo lead. — Joey Villar