Kindai University snapped Criss Cross’ eight-game winning streak with a gritty four-set triumph, 25-22, 25-22, 19-25, 25-22, to claim back-to-back victories in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

Saturday, Nov. 22, the Japanese squad overcame a spirited Criss Cross fightback in the third set and held firm in the fourth, thanks to a clutch showing from Yoshiki Yasuda, keeping pace with the top-ranked Savouge Aesthetics Spin Doctors.

Trailing 17-18 in the fourth set, Yasuda ignited a 5-0 run with four straight points, including a key block on Nico Almendras, giving Kindai a 22-18 cushion. Consecutive Criss Cross errors closed the gap, but Masakazu Kawano delivered the decisive hit to seal the win.

Key contributions power Kindai past Criss Cross

Aun Ryutaro led the team with 18 points, while Yasuda added 17 markers. Haruka Misugi turned in an all-around masterclass, registering 14 points, 17 excellent receptions, and seven digs to halt the King Crunchers’ early tournament dominance.

Criss Cross struggled to match Kindai’s pace after a grueling five-set battle with Cignal. Three-time MVP Jude Garcia scored a game-high 21 points, with Poy Colinares and Nico Almendras contributing 14 and 12 markers, respectively. Adrian Villados tallied 26 excellent sets and two points, while John Pepito recorded 25 receptions and six digs.