Criss Cross recovered from its earlier defeat with a decisive straight-sets win over ProVolley Academy, 25-9, 25-9, 25-13, on Monday, November 25 at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. The King Crunchers moved to 2-1 in the round-robin semifinals of the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, keeping their finals ambitions alive.
The team’s turnaround was marked by consistent scoring, efficient rotations, and solid teamwork. Every player contributed, with middle blocker Gian Glorioso posting a standout performance after returning from a back injury. Head coach Tai Bundit maximized rotations to exploit ProVolley Academy’s weaknesses while giving key players ample rest.
Offensive coordination from Francis Saura and Rex Intal ensured a fluid attack, while Chu Njigha and other starters sealed long rallies with precision kills. ProVolley Academy briefly narrowed the gap in the second set, but Criss Cross responded with a 24-12 run to put the match firmly out of reach.
![From setback to surge! Criss Cross proves resilience in the Spikers’ Turf semifinals [Spikers Turf photo]](http://sportsbytes.com.ph/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/ST-INV-25-Criss-Cross-vs-Pro-Volley_CC_KAMPTON-Noel-02480.jpg)
King Crunchers aim for sustained momentum
Looking ahead, Criss Cross prepares to face unbeaten Savouge Aesthetics tomorrow at the Ynares Center Montalban, with the 5 p.m. clash set to determine the team’s positioning for the finals. “We focused on correcting the mistakes from our loss to Kindai and implemented our adjustments effectively,” said Glorioso.
ProVolley Academy, still seeking its first win, will meet fellow winless UST-Gameville at 3 p.m., aiming to salvage pride in the semifinals round-robin. Meanwhile, Criss Cross hopes to ride this dominant performance into the championship rounds and continue its push for the title.