Facing the looming threat of missing the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference Finals for the first time in seven conferences, Creamline Cool Smashers turned to their championship experience to sweep Akari Chargers, 25-18, 25-19, 25-19, at the Philsports Arena on Tuesday, April 1.

The dominant victory not only kept Creamline’s Finals streak alive but also set up a crucial Final Four showdown against Choco Mucho Flying Titans on Thursday, April 3.

Dominant Performance Against Akari

Unfazed by their previous four-set loss to Petro Gazz, the 10-time PVL champions wasted no time asserting their dominance against an Akari squad that had stunned Choco Mucho in a five-set thriller. The Chargers, who were on the brink of a Finals appearance, failed to replicate their upset magic.

Creamline claimed the straight-sets victory in contrasting styles—pulling away early in the first set, rallying from an 8-13 deficit in the second, and overcoming a tight exchange in the third before pulling away behind Bernadeth Pons and Alyssa Valdez.

Pons, who led all scorers with 17 points, took charge late in the third, scoring five of the team’s next six points to turn a slim 14-13 lead into a 21-15 advantage. Valdez then sealed the deal, delivering three of Creamline’s last four points, including the final off-the-block winner.

“We knew how important this game was—it was do-or-die, so we gave it our all while enjoying every moment,” said Pangs Panaga, who added 13 points on signature running attacks and solid net defense.

Shutting Down Akari’s Offense

The Cool Smashers completely stifled Eli Soyud, who was limited to just 11 points after erupting for a career-high 34 against Choco Mucho. Meanwhile, Akari’s Ivy Lacsina, Faith Nisperos, and Ced Domingo combined for just 21 points, struggling against Creamline’s tight floor and net defense.

Setter Kyle Negrito orchestrated Creamline’s attack masterfully, producing 24 excellent sets, 10 more than Akari’s Michelle Cobb. Pons also contributed defensively, tallying 12 digs and 15 excellent receptions, while Tots Carlos had a well-rounded performance with 13 points and 10 digs.

Creamline’s offensive depth proved too much for the Chargers, outscoring them in attacks (51-28) and blocks (5-2). The Cool Smashers also exploited Akari’s shaky service reception, scoring three aces while committing just one reception error.

Must-Win Clash Against Choco Mucho

With the PVL All-Filipino Finals berth still up for grabs, Creamline must now defeat sister team Choco Mucho in a high-stakes semifinal finale. A potential playoff scenario could still arise, making the clash even more intense.

The Cool Smashers, however, have proven time and again why they remain the gold standard of the league—and Thursday’s showdown will be the ultimate test of their championship resolve.