The Creamline Cool Smashers held their nerve to survive a late Galeries Tower comeback on Tuesday, March 3, at the FilOil Playtime Centre, emerging with a 25-14, 17-25, 25-18, 25-23 victory in the PVL All-Filipino Conference. The win pushed Creamline to a 4-1 record and extended its winning streak to four matches. Galeries Tower challenged the Cool Smashers with a second-set surge, but Creamline’s experience helped the team maintain composure through tense rallies. Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, and Bernadette Pons led attacks while Jia De Guzman orchestrated precise sets, keeping the Highrisers on the defensive.

Alyssa Valdez also contributed four key points in limited minutes, adding depth to Creamline’s lineup. With disciplined floor defense and consistent digs, the team turned Galeries Tower’s pressure into opportunities to regain control.

Creamline recovers after second-set setback

After dropping the second set 17-25, the Creamline Cool Smashers adjusted their approach. The team improved reception and communication, turning extended rallies into scoring chances. Carlos, Galanza, and Pons powered the offense, helping Creamline claim the third set 25-18.

Galeries Tower refused to fold, however, testing Creamline’s poise with timely hits and aggressive serving. The Highrisers’ efforts kept the match close, but disciplined positioning and smart decision-making allowed Creamline to maintain an edge. With every rotation, the team demonstrated patience and awareness, ensuring mistakes were minimized.

Fourth-set surge seals the win

The fourth set became a test of nerves for both squads. Creamline raced to a 12-1 lead, but Galeries Tower mounted a furious comeback, narrowing the gap to 23-24 behind aces from Jules Coronel and quick attacks. Jia De Guzman delivered a decisive set to Pangs Panaga, who converted the match-winning point.

Carlos finished with 19 points and 13 digs, while Pons contributed 15, Galanza 12, and Panaga 11. Creamline outhit Galeries Tower 53-43 and scored nine aces against six from the Highrisers. Jean Asis (12 points) and Erika Deloria (11) led Galeries Tower, with Gayle Pascual and Jules Coronel adding six each, and Roselle Baliton and Aiza Pontillas contributing five apiece. Despite the late rally, the Highrisers fell to 2-4.

The Creamline Cool Smashers’ victory highlighted the team’s discipline and composure under pressure. With four wins in five matches, the squad remains in contention near the top of the PVL All-Filipino Conference standings, proving that experience and teamwork are decisive in clutch moments.