Criss Cross overcame a gritty PGJC-Navy side, 25-15, 23-25, 25-23, 25-14, to open its campaign in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference with a hard-earned victory at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Monday night, October 27.

The King Crunchers looked dominant early, cruising through the first set, but the Sealions fought back in the second frame to even the match. Criss Cross then weathered another scare in the tight third set before rediscovering its rhythm behind Marck Espejo, Jude Garcia, and a much-improved defensive stand.

Criss Cross regains control after shaky middle sets

After losing composure midway through the match, the King Crunchers finally found their footing in the fourth set. They broke the game wide open with a stunning 10-1 run that turned a slim 9-8 lead into a commanding 19-9 cushion, sealing the win after one hour and 52 minutes.

Jaron Requinton starred for Criss Cross with 17 points on 14 spikes, two aces, and one block while adding nine receptions and seven digs. He credited coach Tai Bundit for keeping the team composed during crucial stretches.

“Nireremind lang din kami ni coach Tai kung ano yung mga ginalaw namin sa Thailand, kung ano yung trinaining namin yun yung iapply namin sa loob ng court,” said Requinton. “Kasi nawawala yung composure and happy happy sa loob ng court, so yun yung pinaparemind niya palagi every timeout.”

Balanced attack highlights King Crunchers’ depth

Three-time league MVP Jude Garcia chipped in 15 points, while Espejo finished with 11 markers. New recruit Noel Kampton provided an immediate spark off the bench with eight points in just two sets, showcasing the team’s offensive depth.

Poy Colinares and Kim Malabunga added seven points apiece as Criss Cross joined Cignal and Alpha Insurance atop the early standings. The King Crunchers will aim for back-to-back wins when they face the VNS Griffins on Friday at the Paco Arena.

For PGJC-Navy, Greg Dolor delivered 19 points while Jhon Robert Raquiza scored 14. The Sealions will try to bounce back against UST-Gameville on Wednesday, also at the Paco Arena.