MANILA, Philippines – Reamline defeated Petro Gazz in Game 2 of the 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Finals, 18-25, 25-16, 25-18, 23-25, 15-6, to force a rubber match at the Mall of Asia Arena and maintain its chances of retaining the title.

When it mattered most, Tots Carlos, Michele Gumabao, and Jema Galanza stepped up for the Cool Smashers to prevent the Angels from winning the series.

The Cool Smashers quickly got their act together in the decider as the trio of Carlos, Gumabao, and Galanza, who were filling in for the injured three-time MVP Alyssa Valdez, joined forces to unleash eight straight points for a 10-2 start. Creamline was unable to complete its Game 2 win in the fourth set.

By scoring the final three points in the decisive set, Ced Domingo took control after the Angels had cut the lead to six, 12-6.

In a decisive Game 3 at the same location on Thursday at 5:30 p.m., Creamline and Petro Gazz square off.

According to a statement by Sherwin Meneses, the coach of Creamline, the key to their recent success in a five-set game was not only their skills but also their mindset. He expressed admiration for his team’s resilience and determination, describing their performance as that of a champion team. The players did not give up, rising to the challenge and ultimately emerging victorious.

Gumabao scored a game-high 21 points on the strength of 15 attacks, 4 blocks, 2 aces, and 14 digs. Galanza added 17 points, and Carlos contributed 20 points and 21 outstanding receptions.

Jia De Guzman, the team’s star setter, led the group with 30 flawless sets as Domingo concluded with 14 points.

In a recent interview, Filipino athlete De Guzman shared that as they headed into the fifth set of their game, there was a sense of determination evident in the eyes of everyone involved – teammates, coaches, and even supporters. De Guzman attributed this to the team’s rigorous training and strong sense of camaraderie. The team had been practicing hard for years, and it was this preparation that ultimately allowed them to showcase their true character on the court and emerge victorious.

After falling to the Angels in Game 1 by scores of 22-25, 26-24, 23-25, and 24-26, the Cool Smashers made a comeback.

The Angels were led by Remy Palma, who scored 16 points on 12 attacks and 4 blocks. Aiza Maizo-Pontillas scored 15 points, MJ Phillips scored 10, and Jonah Sabete scored 10.

In Game 3, Petro Gazz will have another opportunity to claim its first All-Filipino championship.