Criss Cross tightened its grip on the early Spikers’ Turf leaderboard, blasting VNS, 25-14, 25-15, 25-21, on Friday, October 31, at the Paco Arena in Manila to stay unbeaten in the 2025 Invitational Conference.

The King Crunchers powered to a 2-0 start and set up a blockbuster duel with fellow undefeated squad Cignal on Sunday at 6 p.m. at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan in the tournament backed by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings n’ Things, and Arena Plus.

Kampton anchors steady, composed charge

Noel Kampton delivered another confident showing with 14 points built on 10 attacks, three blocks, and an ace, stressing Criss Cross’ locked-in approach against a young VNS lineup.

“Lahat ng teams ngayon palaban, kaya respect pa rin sa kanila,” Kampton said. “Sa amin, mindset is ready kami palagi kasi isang snap lang puwede mag-iba ang game.”

A Lucca Mamone quick attack pushed Criss Cross ahead 20-13 in the third frame before VNS rookie RK Medino sparked a spirited push with Kimmy Liray. The Griffins trimmed the deficit to 20-22 before a costly service error stalled the run, allowing Kampton to hammer back-to-back points to finish the match in 67 minutes.

VNS shows fight, but Criss Cross depth prevails

Jaron Requinton fired 13 points, while Jude Garcia and Kim Malabunga added eight and six. Setter Adrian Villados orchestrated the offense with 20 excellent sets and four points, stepping up as Criss Cross continued to miss Nico Almendras, Chu Njigha, Ysay Marasigan, and Manuel Sumangguid due to illness.

VNS slipped to 0-2 and now faces UST-Gameville on Sunday at 4 p.m. Medino and Liray tallied nine points apiece as assistant coach JP De Guzman handled duties with head coach Ralph Ocampo leading VNS’ Caloocan contingent in the 2025 Batang Pinoy beach volleyball tilt.