Cool Smashers overpower SGA foes

MANILA, Philippines — A little shuffle in its rotation produced the same result – a rousing victory.

Going to their second stringers to start the game, the Cool Smashers were just as awesome in a 25-13, 25-13, 25-19 blasting of the Strong Group Athletics in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the PhilSports Arena yesterday.

Bea de Leon, in her maiden conference with the team, Pau Soriano, a battle-scarred middle-blocker, and Michele Gumabao got the starting nod and each of the three contributed significantly.

The Cool Smashers seized the solo lead with a fourth straight win as they sent Strong Group down to 0-4.

Bernadeth Pons also came through with a solid job, unloading a match-high 12 points in just two sets while Alyssa Valdez, the charismatic leader of the merry band, came off the bench and scattered nine hits also in just two sets.

“Satisfied naman sa galaw ng players ngayon, talagang nag-trabaho sila para makuha panalo. Hindi nila tinignan sino kalaban nila, yun ang importante,” said Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses.

Pons said they responded to their coach’s call not to be complacent.

“Sabi ni coach wag kami maging pabaya, wag kami maging kampante,” said Pons.

Creamline’s strong start should give them enough confidence to take on Chery Tiggo, a former champion, Saturday.

“Malaking boost ito. Makakapag prepare kami ng three days na galing sa panalo,” said Meneses. “Titignan namin ang Chery Tiggo kung ano ang advantage at disadvantage namin, training muna kami.”