Criss Cross crushes VNS, one win away from elimination sweep

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Criss Cross demonstrated its depth and cohesion, overwhelming VNS Always Bright Laticrete, 25-17, 25-14, 25-12, in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the Filoil Centre on Friday, March 20. Even with the second unit taking center stage, the King Crunchers controlled the tempo from start to finish. The 61-minute match highlighted the team’s balance and preparation, as all 14 players contributed without any drop in performance.

Jaron Requinton led the bench with 16 points, while Nico Almendras supported with 10 points and seven excellent receptions. Setter Eco Adajar orchestrated the offense with 18 precise sets, keeping the team’s system running smoothly regardless of personnel on the court. Lucca Mamone added eight points, including three crucial blocks, while Pemie Bagalay contributed six points, six receptions, and three digs in limited action.

Jaron Requinton scores for Criss Cross, leading the second-unit charge in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference. [Spikers Turf photo]

Head coach Tai Bundit rotated the entire squad, showcasing Criss Cross’s depth and consistency. The team dictated play from the opening serve, never allowing VNS to establish a rhythm. “As second stringers, sobrang saya namin kasi binigyan kami ni coach ng chance na makapaglaro the whole game,” Requinton said. “Masaya kami na nakasupport din ang teammates namin.”

Criss Cross eyes perfect elimination round sweep

With the win, Criss Cross recorded its ninth straight victory and moved one step closer to completing a perfect elimination round. The King Crunchers will face 3B next Friday at the Paco Arena in Manila, aiming to carry momentum and confidence into the semifinals. In the tournament’s Final Four, organized by Sports Vision and backed by Alpha Insurance, Black Mamba, Premiere EMS, and ArenaPlus, all teams will start from scratch with records reset to 0-0.

CJ Segui paced VNS with six points and 11 receptions, while Winfred Santos, Jun Edang, and Terrence Marticion added five points each. The Griffins remain winless in eight matches and will look to break through against Savouge at the Paco Arena on Tuesday.