Creamline proved once again that it has Cignal’s number, surviving a tough five-set battle in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational on Thursday, August 21, night at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.

The Cool Smashers clawed back from a 1-2 set deficit to escape with a 17-25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-11, 15-8 victory, just four days after sweeping the HD Spikers in the PVL On Tour bronze medal match.

Michele Gumabao spearheaded Creamline with a commanding all-around performance, scoring 22 points on 18 attacks and four blocks while also recording 15 digs. Jema Galanza added 18 markers and 17 receptions, while Alyssa Valdez registered a triple-double of 11 points, 12 digs, and 14 receptions.

Gumabao and Galanza fuel Creamline’s comeback

After dropping the third set, Creamline responded with a dominant 25-11 showing in the fourth to force a decider. Gumabao’s early scoring helped the Cool Smashers build a 7-3 cushion, and despite a brief Cignal rally, consecutive hits from Gumabao and Valdez, along with errors by Gel Cayuna, widened the lead to 12-6.

Though Valdez committed late errors, Galanza stepped up when it mattered most, sealing the win with back-to-back clutch kills after two hours and 21 minutes of play.

Head coach Sherwin Meneses credited the team’s composure and chemistry, saying their experience gave them the edge in the tightly contested matchup.

Cignal falters in the decider

Cignal relied on Heather Guino-o, who tallied 21 points, 12 digs, and seven receptions, but she went scoreless in the fifth set. Erika Santos, the PVL On Tour MVP, was held to 11 points as the HD Spikers slipped to 0-2 in the standings.

Kyle Negrito orchestrated Creamline’s offense with 32 excellent sets while adding four points, while Jeanette Panaga and Sheena Toring combined for 15 markers.

The Cool Smashers, now 1-1, will face Chery Tiggo on Saturday, while the HD Spikers aim to bounce back against PLDT earlier in the day.