Criss Cross once again asserted its dominance, defeating Savouge in a gripping four-set battle, 28-26, 25-17, 26-28, 25-23, on Sunday, April 19, to capture the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference title at the FilOil Centre.

The King Crunchers secured their second straight championship, overcoming a determined Savouge side in a winner-take-all finale. It was a match defined by composure and resilience, with Criss Cross delivering in the most crucial moments.

After edging a tense opening set and taking control in the second, Criss Cross faltered in a tight third frame before regrouping late in the fourth to close out the series. The victory capped another dominant campaign for the league’s most consistent squad.

Malabunga delivers in defining moment

While Criss Cross relied on its wing spikers throughout the match, Kim Malabunga delivered the biggest plays when it mattered most.

He provided a crucial point off a well-timed play late in the fourth set before sealing the championship with a decisive block at match point. The final sequence underscored his composure under pressure after a previous international stint where a similar play was overturned.

This time, Malabunga left no doubt, executing cleanly to secure the title for the King Crunchers.

Garcia leads balanced attack

Jude Garcia powered Criss Cross with 27 points, earning Best Player of the Game honors through a consistent all-around effort.

He acknowledged the challenge posed by Savouge, noting how the opposition came prepared for his tendencies. Garcia responded by maintaining intensity and delivering across all phases of the game.

Adrian Villados orchestrated the offense with 33 excellent sets, including a crucial late connection that helped break a 23-all deadlock in the fourth set. Noel Kampton added 20 points, while Alche Gupiteo and Malabunga chipped in 12 and 11, respectively.

Manuel Sumanguid anchored the floor defense with 20 excellent receptions and eight excellent digs.

Savouge, meanwhile, showed strong resistance behind Mark Calado’s 16 points and Louie Ramirez’s 13-point, 13-reception effort. JP Bugaoan contributed 10 markers as the Spin Doctors recorded their best finish after previous bronze medal campaigns.

Despite falling short, Savouge pushed the champions to the limit, nearly forcing a fifth set after rallying late in the fourth.

Criss Cross ultimately leaned on its experience and composure, closing out the match to reaffirm its status as the top team in the Spikers’ Turf.