Criss Cross withstood a late surge from FEU-DN Steel to claim a 22-25, 25-21, 25-16, 21-25, 17-15 victory on Wednesday, November 12, at Paco Arena, clinching the first semifinal slot in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.

The King Crunchers, backed by seasoned leadership, recovered from a slow start to counter the Tamaraws’ youthful energy, extending their perfect run to 5-0 in the league.

Garcia, Kampton lead Criss Cross charge

Three-time MVP Jude Garcia led the way with 24 points, including 21 attacks, two blocks, and an ace, supplemented by nine digs. Rookie Noel Kampton made an immediate impact with 22 points, three kill blocks, and 16 excellent receptions, showcasing composure against his college team.

“First set was a bit off for us, but we regained our rhythm in the next sets,” Kampton said. “FEU fought hard, and I’m glad we managed to pull through.”

Fifth set drama decides outcome

The deciding set was a tense back-and-forth battle. Criss Cross reached match point first at 14-13 following a service error from Mikko Espartero, but FEU-DN Steel rallied, with Lirick Mendoza blocking Jaron Requinton to take a 15-14 lead. Garcia’s cross-court attack tied the score, and subsequent contributions from Adrian Villados and Poy Colinares secured the win for the King Crunchers.

Villados orchestrated the offense with 31 excellent sets, while Colinares contributed two points. FEU-DN Steel’s Requinton finished with 15 points, complemented by Colinares’ 11 markers. Tamaraw Dryx Saavedra led his team with 25 points, joined by Mendoza and Espartero with 17 and 16 points, respectively.

Next matchups

Criss Cross will aim to stretch its winning streak to six games against UST-Gameville Golden Spikers on Friday at 1 p.m. FEU-DN Steel, eliminated from semifinal contention at 1-4, will face VNS at 10 a.m.