Alyssa: We’re still here

MANILA, Philippines — Don’t count Alyssa Valdez and the Creamline Cool Smashers out just yet.

This was the warning given by the battle-scarred 32-year-old star as Creamline clashes with Cignal in one of two knockout qualifying round matches today in the PVL All-Filipino Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The stakes are high because the winners will automatically advance to the semifinals.

“I think every game, it’s more of a reminder for myself and for the team that we’re still here,” said the team captain after Creamline made it through the top four following a gut-wrenching 25-19, 25-20, 15-25, 26-28, 16-14 win over Cignal Saturday.

In that game, Valdez, hobbled by various injuries the past two years, reminded everyone she isn’t done yet after a triple-double of 22 points, 13 digs and 13 receptions.