Creamline delivered a statement win under pressure, clawing back from the brink to outlast PLDT, 22-25, 27-25, 19-25, 28-26, 15-10, on Saturday, April 11, at the SM Mall of Asia Arena to open its PVL All-Filipino Conference semifinals campaign. The victory forged a tie with Cignal at the top of the standings and showcased the Cool Smashers’ championship composure.

Facing multiple match points in the fourth set, Creamline refused to yield and instead turned the match into a showcase of resilience and execution. The Cool Smashers leaned on their experience and poise to survive the pressure, eventually shifting momentum in their favor heading into the deciding frame.

Backed by a roaring crowd of 12,411 fans, Creamline transformed a near-defeat into a defining comeback, highlighting the team’s ability to deliver when the stakes are highest. The match evolved from a tight battle into a test of will, with Creamline emerging stronger in the most crucial moments.

Creamline survives match points, takes control late

Bernadeth Pons powered Creamline with a Best Player of the Game performance, unloading 28 points while delivering key hits in critical stretches. Jema Galanza provided crucial support with 17 points, stepping up in high-pressure situations after a quiet outing in the previous match.

Galanza made her presence felt in the fifth set, producing timely attacks that helped maintain Creamline’s cushion. Her off-the-block hits and aggressive scoring pushed the Cool Smashers to an early 8-4 lead, setting the tone for the final push.

Pangs Panaga and Tots Carlos also contributed at key moments, helping extend the advantage as PLDT struggled to regain composure. Creamline capitalized on errors while maintaining offensive pressure, ensuring control of the decider.

“Sobrang saya kasi naitawid namin ang game ngayon… sobrang proud ako sa effort ng team,” said Pons after the hard-fought victory.

PLDT falters in deciding set

PLDT appeared poised to close out the match in four sets but failed to capitalize on its opportunities, allowing Creamline to escape and regroup. The High Speed Hitters could not recover from the momentum swing, faltering in the fifth set as their execution broke down.

Savi Davison led PLDT with 22 points, while Alleiah Malaluan added 23 in a strong offensive showing. Kim Dy and Majoy Baron contributed 16 and 10 points, respectively, but their efforts were not enough to secure the win.

Creamline dominated in attacks, 74-66, and delivered seven aces to offset PLDT’s advantage in blocking. Despite conceding 31 free points, the Cool Smashers’ composure in clutch moments proved decisive.

In the closing sequence, Creamline executed with precision, converting key defensive plays into points and maintaining control down the stretch. Davison’s final attack into the net sealed the outcome, triggering a celebration among Creamline supporters.

The win not only avenged Creamline’s earlier loss to PLDT in the preliminaries but also reinforced its status as a championship contender. With a showdown against Cignal looming, the Cool Smashers carry momentum into what could be a pivotal semifinal clash.