MANILA – Creamline Cool Smashers moved closer to a title repeat in the Premier Volleyball League Season 3 Open Conference via a 25-14, 25-22, 27-25 sweep over Petro Gazz Angels in Game 1 of the finals at the San Juan Arena.
Alyssa Valdez tallied 19 points on 17 kills and two aces while Jessica added 15 points with all but one coming off attacks and had 10 digs on Wednesday.
The Cool Smashers can snatch the Open Conference tiara in Game 2 on Saturday.
After an easy first set win, the Cool Smashers were down by five in the second frame before coming up with a huge run for a 24-21 edge.
Galanza committed an attack error before making up for the lost point with a hit to seal the frame win.
Late in the third set, Valdez scored three straight points including back-to-back aces to turn a 20-22 deficit to a 23-22 advantage.
The Angels stayed alive to force a deadlock at 25-all before they committed an error coupled by a Galanza hit to take the win.
“This is the Finals. We expect nothing but all-out na game from both teams and PetroGazz really showed it from the get-go,” said Valdez. “Everyone really contributed and hopefully maging consistent laing.”
Jonah Sabete had 12 points and 18 excellent receptions while Jovielyn Prado had 11 markers to lead the Angels, which hopes to stretch the race to three series to a Game 3 on Sunday.
Meanwhile, BanKo Perlas Lady Spikers also move closer to sealing the third place trophy after a 25-23, 25-23, 25-18 sweep over the Motolite Power Builders. Nicole Tiamzon had 13 points for the winning team./PN
