Criss Cross completes gritty comeback against Savouge, remains unbeaten

Just when it seemed Criss Cross was on the verge of suffering its first loss to a team not named Cignal, the King Crunchers found a way to fight back.

Led by Jude Garcia, Gian Glorioso, and Pemmie Bagalay, Criss Cross rallied from a 1-2 deficit to overcome a gritty Savouge squad, securing a 22-25, 25-15, 23-25, 25-18, 15-7 victory in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Sunday, March 2.

Gian Glorioso and Pemmie Bagalay shut down Savouge’s offense with dominant net defense. [photo credit: Spikers’ Turf]

With the win, Criss Cross improved to 4-0, matching Cignal’s unbeaten record at the top of the standings in the tournament.

Blocking Dominance Seals the Win

The fifth set saw Glorioso and Bagalay put on a defensive masterclass, combining for five kill blocks that stifled Savouge’s offense. Criss Cross opened the deciding frame with a 6-0 run, setting the tone for a dominant finish.

Bagalay continued his stellar play, sparking a 3-0 burst that extended their lead to 13-5, leaving the Spin Doctors struggling to respond. Savouge attempted to recover, but an errant service by Hero Austria sealed the match for the King Crunchers.

Jude Garcia celebrates as Criss Cross extends its winning streak in Spikers’ Turf. [Spikers Turf images]

“Sobrang saya kasi tinrabaho talaga nila,” said Garcia, the reigning Open Conference MVP. “Si Pemmie, kahit ‘di starter, makikita mo ‘yung eagerness niyang makatulong sa team.”