ILOCOS SUR, Philippines – The Creamline Cool Smashers defeated the Akari Chargers 26-24, 25-21, 25-18 in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference on Saturday at the Candon City Arena, despite a quiet comeback by former MVP Tots Carlos after a six-month injury layoff.

Carlos concluded with four points and added a single point with a long ball halfway through the opening set. However, Creamline’s depth paid off, as its bench came through to tie the Cool Smashers at 2-0 with the PLDT High Speed Hitters and Cignal HD Spikers at the top of the rankings.

After sweeping their opening two games, the Chargers fell to 2-1 and were tied for second place with the Petro Gazz Angels, who had previously beaten the Farm Fresh Foxies in straight sets.

In order to complete a historic Grand Slam in the Invitationals, Creamline demonstrated its dominance over Akari, whom it swept in the previous season’s finals to win the Reinforced Conference title.

As Carlos and Alyssa Valdez checked into the battle, the 7,281-person audience cheered. In the PVL on Tour match, which lasted one hour and thirty-five minutes, Creamline defeated Akari’s rallies thanks to crucial contributions from veterans Rose Vargas, Pangs Panaga, and Pau Soriano, despite their restricted roles.

Late in the game, Soriano scored two important hits, the latest of which put Creamline at match point. Akari’s Faith Nisperos was killed by the Cool Smashers, securing the win.

Michelle Cobb of Akari marveled at volleyball’s rising popularity and applauded the turnout.

After an amazing victory in front of an enthusiastic audience, Creamline stars reflected on the growing popularity of volleyball in the area and expressed their gratitude. Bea de Leon stole the show with 12 points, including 10 attacks, but Jema Galanza, the team’s top scorer with 13 points, four outstanding digs, and five receptions, attributed the team’s victory to their combined efforts. She won the game’s top prize thanks in large part to her performance, particularly in the crucial third set.

Cobb was clearly thrilled by the increasing fan base and commented on how wonderful it was to watch volleyball’s popularity increase, especially in areas like Candon and neighboring towns. Speaking in the regional vernacular, Valdez conveyed her gratitude for the resounding fan support, which tremendously inspired the players during the game.

De Leon also discussed the team’s mentality before the match, stressing the value of being focused on the “small balls,” a tactic that has helped them win games in the past. Along with her better physical state, she also talked about the confidence boost she gets from having her teammates Tots and Ate Aly back. De Leon is focused on having fun and helping the team win now that her knees are feeling good. The players’ close relationship and excellent team dynamic were key components in Creamline’s most recent victory, showcasing both individual skill and group effort.

Bea de Leon offered her opinions on the team’s approach, stressing the value of concentrating on “small balls,” which are crucial to Creamline’s performance in all of their games. Team captain Alyssa Valdez emphasized this approach, which has been a pillar of their gameplay, emphasizing its ongoing significance in their wins. Reflecting on her own path, De Leon said she now enjoys the game because she is physically fit, especially given that her knees are in fantastic shape.

She said the team’s performance and general spirit were greatly improved by the return of colleagues Tots and Ate Aly. With the added incentive of being healthy, de Leon is committed to continuing to enjoy the game and help the team maintain its dominance on the court. The team’s strength and unity have been essential to their success.

Even though Akari made heroic rallies, Creamline’s firepower and mistakes at key times proved the difference.

In a two-set match, Michele Gumabao scored four points, and Bernadeth Pons added ten. The depth of the team was highlighted by the six additional Cool Smashers who scored.

Vargas and Soriano each scored three points, while Panaga finished with four points.

Akari mostly relied on Erika Raagas, who scored 11 points, while they were without injured batter Grethcel Soltones. But Nisperos, Ivy Lacsina, and Eli Soyud all had trouble scoring in offensive games, managing only 18 points between them.