Criss Cross wasted no time asserting its championship pedigree, dismantling VNS Always Bright Laticrete, 25-17, 25-15, 25-17, to seize an early share of the lead in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the FilOil Playtime Centre on Wednesday, Feb. 25. 

The King Crunchers showcased superior firepower and depth from the outset, needing just over an hour to complete the sweep and join Alpha Insurance atop the early standings of the tournament organized by Sports Vision.

Rookie spark powers title defense

Newcomer Alche Gupiteo immediately made his presence felt, unloading a game-high 11 points while delivering eight excellent receptions in an impressive debut. The former UST beach volleyball standout provided stability on both ends as Criss Cross dictated the tempo throughout the match.

Four-time MVP Jude Garcia matched Gupiteo’s output with 11 markers and added six excellent digs, underscoring the King Crunchers’ balanced attack. Their combined effort kept the Griffins scrambling for answers.

“First, I’m very blessed kasi kinuha ako nila,” said Gupiteo. “Thankful kasi maganda ‘yung laro. Syempre kinakabahan kasi first Spikers’ Turf ko ‘to.”

“Actually, nagtiwala lang talaga ako sa coaching staff, sa mga kuya, sa managers, that’s why na-boost ‘yung confidence ko to perform,” he added.

Net dominance seals easy sweep

Criss Cross flexed its depth with Lloyd Josafat contributing nine points in just two sets, highlighted by four kill blocks, five attacks, and an ace. Noel Kampton and Jaron Requinton chipped in eight and six markers, respectively, to keep the pressure firmly on VNS.

Setter Adrian Villados efficiently ran the offense, tallying 12 excellent sets while adding a point of his own. His steady distribution ensured the King Crunchers maintained rhythm from start to finish.

The defending champions controlled the match statistically, outgunning the Griffins in attacks, 38-28, while turning the net into a fortress with a commanding 15-3 advantage in blocks. The one-hour, seven-minute victory underscored their early-season sharpness.

Terrence Marticion paced VNS with eight points, while Michael Joshua Balintag added seven as the Griffins struggled to match Criss Cross’ consistency.

The King Crunchers aim for a second straight win when they face Alpha Insurance on Friday at 5 p.m. at the same venue. VNS, meanwhile, looks to regroup against AEP-Cabstars earlier that day at 3 p.m.