Depth big edge for Creamline

MANILA, Philippines — Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses proved prophetic when he told his players before Game 1 of their best-of-three PVL All-Filipino Conference title showdown with Choco Mucho that their bench depth would spell the difference.

True enough, the Cool Smashers’ second-stringers responded and delivered in the clutch in a dramatic, come-from-behind 24-26, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16 victory over the Flying Titans last Thursday to move on the cusp of extending their dynastic reign.

“Bago mag-start game, sabi ko talaga bench ang magpapanalo. Nagkakatotoo nga,” said Meneses, whose charges could wrap it all up in Game 2 tomorrow at the same venue.

A decider, if necessary, is Tuesday at the Big Dome.

After blowing a 12-5 lead in a stinging opening-set defeat, Meneses explored and went to his bench mob.

It started with Bea de Leon. Then Michele Gumabao and rookie setter sensation Mafe Galanza came in. Bernadeth Pons followed.

They all embraced their new roles as reserves even though they could start for other teams, and helped the proud franchise rally from huge deficits -- from 5-12 in the second set, 3-10 in the third and 3-7 in the fourth -- for a shot at a glorious and league record eighth championship.

“Laking bagay ng tiwala ng team at ni coach. Given na maipasok kami ng crucial moments, gagawin lang namin ang best namin,” said Gumabao.