Alyssa Valdez: Creamline Team Leader — PHOTO CONTRIBUTED
Creamline welcomed Tots Carlos’s prolific return on Tuesday as Cool Smashers and Petro Gazz added another chapter to their simmering rivalry as they contested a share of the lead in the Rising Conference knockout. strength of the Volleyball Premier League at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
After watching her teammates win a tough 25-22, 25-18, 26-28, 25-22 over the PLDT High Speed Hitters last Thursday, Carlos rejoins the team that will try to complete become a Grand Slam here, with her debuting against the Angels looking to avenge a few losses in the finals.
Technically, Petro Gazz is the defending champion, winning in 2019 and having held the title throughout the pandemic when the congress was not held.
That was the last time Petro Gazz beat Creamline in a title series, as Cool Smashers dominated the Open Conference at Angel’s expense in 2019 and this year.
Idle Chery Tiggo has a 2-0 record and will be one of only two teams unbeaten in this single game after the 5:20pm clash between Creamline and Petro Gazz.
With Carlos’ return, Creamline has another solid pick after Alyssa Valdez, import Yeliz Basa, Jema Galanza and reliable Ced Domingo, who played a big part in the win over PLDT. Domingo finished with 17 points when plugged into a hole left by Carlos, who had scratched before the game because of back pain.
Domingo, the most valuable player in the finals, took the title of Player of the game against the Speedy Beaters, while Valdez put on another classic performance with a 17-point result. On her own, she spiked with 13 excellent passes and the same number of excellent digs.
Imports Lindsey Vander Weide and Jonah Sabete will spearhead the Angels.
And while the major powers will destroy it, UAI-Army and F2 shoot to break through after apologizing starting their respective campaigns when they open the two-game bill cap at 2:30pm
The Lady Troopers gave way to High Speed Hitters in five and newcomer Akari Chargers in three while Cargo Movers bowed to Crossover in three with a depleted roster and then lost to the Flying Titans in four.
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