Chery Tiggo proved that playoff volleyball is a different battle entirely, dismantling Nxled Chameleons, 25-17, 25-15, 25-20, on Saturday, August 9, at the Philsports Arena to punch their ticket to the PVL On Tour semifinals and earn a coveted slot in the upcoming Invitational Conference.

Leveling up when it mattered most, the 2021 champions showcased poise, precision, and relentless pressure from the opening serve. The sweep was sealed in just one hour and 25 minutes, ending with a Mary Rhose Dapol kill.

Breaking tradition, libero Karen Verdeflor earned Best Player honors after recording 16 excellent digs with a 55% efficiency rate, neutralizing Nxled’s offense and adding six receptions. “This win is a huge energy and confidence booster for us heading into the semifinals,” she said, crediting execution and trust in the system as keys to victory.

Crossovers overwhelm Chameleons in all departments

With veterans blending seamlessly with rookies, Chery Tiggo outgunned Nxled in attacks, 50-33, led by Cess Robles with 12 points. Ara Galang and Renee Peñafiel each added 11, while Imee Hernandez chipped in 10, including key blocks. The Crossovers also edged Nxled in blocks, 6-4, and limited their errors to just 11.

Jasmine Nabor, Aby Maraño, Jyne Soreño, and Erika Deloria combined for 14 points, rounding out a balanced attack. Nxled’s EJ Laure finished with 13 points, with Jovelyn Fernandez adding 10, but the rest of the squad, including rookie Lyann De Guzman, struggled to find rhythm against Chery Tiggo’s airtight defense.

Momentum shifts toward Cignal showdown

Coming off a knockout win over Galeries Tower, the Crossovers turned their quarterfinal into a showcase of playoff-ready volleyball. They dominated Set 1 with a 15-9 attack advantage and a 4-0 block lead. In Set 2, Galang, Hernandez, and Peñafiel powered a fast start, with Nabor delivering a highlight left-handed hit in the rally of the match. By the third set, Nxled’s brief rallies were quickly shut down as Chery Tiggo built a commanding lead and never let up.

With momentum on their side, the Crossovers now prepare for a high-stakes semifinal duel against the Cignal HD Spikers. Verdeflor summed up their approach: “Depende sa mga coaches, depende sa game plan – pero ibibigay namin ang best namin. Hanggang sa Finals na ‘to.”