Criss Cross sweeps Alpha Insurance to keep Finals hopes alive in Spikers’ Turf

0Shares

Criss Cross bounced back from its first loss of the tournament with a commanding straight-sets victory over Alpha Insurance, 31-29, 25-22, 25-20, in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference semifinals on Friday at the Filoil Playtime Centre in San Juan. The win kept the King Crunchers in contention for a Finals berth in the round-robin stage.

The victory improved Criss Cross to a 1-1 semifinal record, while Alpha Insurance dropped to 0-2 and was officially eliminated from Finals contention. The result also set up a crucial knockout scenario for the remaining teams fighting for the last Finals slot.

Jude Garcia powers the King Crunchers with a strong attacking performance [Spikers Turf photo]

Criss Cross had to survive a tight opening set before taking control of the match, with key late points from Lloyd Josafat and Alche Gupiteo sealing the extended frame at 31-29. The momentum from that hard-fought set carried into the rest of the match.

The King Crunchers strengthened their grip in the second set through disciplined net defense, breaking a 22-all deadlock with timely blocks and forced errors. Gupiteo and captain Ysay Marasigan anchored the defensive surge that shifted control of the match.

Criss Cross dominates Spikers’ Turf semifinals battle

A strong 10-5 start in the third set allowed Criss Cross to close out the sweep in one hour and 29 minutes and secure a crucial win in the Spikers’ Turf semifinals race. The team’s balanced attack and defensive execution proved decisive in the straight-sets result.

Jude Garcia led Criss Cross with 22 points built on 19 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, while also providing leadership in key stretches. Alche Gupiteo added 13 points along with strong floor coverage, finishing with 14 receptions and five digs.

Playmaker Adrian Villados orchestrated the offense with 27 excellent sets, while Josafat added 10 points including multiple blocks. The collective effort ensured Criss Cross stayed alive in the semifinals picture.

For Alpha Insurance, Edward Camposano finished with 13 points and eight digs while Billie Anima added 12 points and JJ Javelona contributed 10 points. Despite the effort, the Protectors could not extend their campaign further.