Cool Smashers showcase depth in dominating Highrisers

Games Saturday
(Filoil EcoOil Arena)

2 p.m. – Capital1 Solar vs PLDT
4 p.m. – Akari vs Petro Gazz
6 p.m. – Farm Fresh vs Chery Tiggo

MANILA, Philippines – Creamline went deep and unleashed the full might of its talented bench as it turned back Galeries Tower, 25-22, 25-17, 25-15, Thursday and seized a share of the lead with little sister Choco Mucho in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the PhilSports Arena.

Cool Smashers coach Sherwin Meneses shuffled his cards well and tapped every player available, with only setter Kyle Negrito playing all three sets as the dynastic franchise claimed its third straight win and a place at the helm alongside the Flying Titans.

Michele Gumabao came off the bench in firing a team-high 10 points while Tots Carlos and skipper Alyssa Valdez, the unquestioned face of Philippine volleyball, chipped in nine and eight hits, respectively, in just two sets.

“We’re very happy with the performance. We’re very proud of everyone who played,” said Valdez.

Valdez also spoke of their experience as a big factor in their recent success.

“Isa kami sa teams na matagal na sa PVL, marami din talaga kaming veterans and we take that as an advantage,” she said.

The Highrisers, spearheaded by Ysabel Jamie Jimenez’s match-high 11 hits, tried to put up a fight early, sticking close to the Cool Smashers for most of the opening set before eventually collapsing in the end.

It turned out to be the lone opportunity for Galeries Tower to snatch a set as Creamline got back to its senses and dominated the last two sets in sealing the deal.

The Highrisers fell to 0-3.

After handing business on this one, Meneses looks forward to shooting for win No. 4 against Strong Group Athletics (0-3) Tuesday in Pasig.

“Morale ng team lalo tumataas kaya continuous ang preparation. Kahit Strong Group (Athletics) paghahandaan namin, focus kami sa kanila,” he said.