MANILA – Creamline Cool Smashers recovered from a set down to beat Petro Gazz Angels, 27-29, 25-23, 16-25, 25-17, 16-14, in Game 1 of the 2021 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Open Conference semifinals on Sunday in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte.
Alyssa Valdez spearheaded the offense for the Cool Smashers with 25 points on 22 attacks, two blocks, and a service ace, while Diana Carlos came up with clutch hits to end up with 23 points on 22 attacks and a service ace.
Jessica Galanza had 16 points to go with 21 excellent receptions, while Michelle Gumabao carved out 13 points as the defending champions, Creamline, moved closer to its PVL finals return with a 1-0 slate.
Trailing by a set entering the fourth frame, the Cool Smashers surged to a 10-5 start with consecutive hits from Carlos and Galanza. Valdez then came up with two straight points followed by Carlos’ three attacks to stretch the lead to 19-10.
The Angels clawed to within 13-19, but Valdez unloaded four straight points to give the Cool Smashers a 23-14 edge. Petro Gazz made its last push at 17-23. A powerful hit by Galanza sent the match to a fifth set.
Carlos kicked off the fifth set with back-to-back hits for a 5-1 lead. The Angels quickly trimmed the deficit for a seven-all count on three straight points by Mary Remy Palma. Consecutive errors by the Cool Smashers midway in the set allowed the Angels to snatch a 9-8 lead. However, solid attacks by Valdez, Panaga, and Carlos gave Creamline a 12-10 advantage.
More errors by the Cool Smashers late in the decider round forced a 14-all deadlock, but they clinched a 15-14 lead on a powerful hit by Carlos before Galanza wrapped up the match with a down-the-line hit.
Myla Pablo top-scored for the Angels with 26 points, Frances Xinia Molina added 17 markers, while Palma and Gretchel Soltones dropped 10 points each.
Meanwhile, Choco Mucho Flying Titans also moved closer to the finals seat after ousting Chery Tiggo Crossover, 25-18, 25-22, 25-21, in the other semis opener. Kat Tolentino led the Flying Titans with 11 points./PN
