The Criss Cross King Crunchers displayed their dominance in the third set against the Savouge Spin Doctors, securing a spot in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference finals.
Criss Cross secured its place in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference finals in dominant fashion, delivering a flawless performance in the crucial third set before overwhelming Savouge in the fourth to seal a 25-22, 22-25, 26-24, 25-13 victory at the FilOil EcoOil Arena on Wednesday.
Building on their spectacular showing in the swing frame, the King Crunchers unleashed a blistering 11-4 start in the fourth set, maintaining control with a commanding 17-9 lead.
What had been a tight, hard-fought match turned into a runaway victory, earning Criss Cross its second consecutive championship appearance with a flawless 3-0 (win-loss) slate in the five-team semifinals.
This time, however, the King Crunchers are poised for redemption after falling to the Cignal HD Spikers in a sweep during the Open Conference finals last May.
Criss Cross anticipated a grueling contest after Savouge evened the match at one set apiece. Despite being outgunned 15-21 in attacks during the third frame, the King Crunchers committed zero unforced errors, a stark contrast to Savouge’s 10 critical mistakes. These miscues tipped the balance in favor of Criss Cross, which capitalized to take the pivotal set.
While the King Crunchers remained focused and composed in the fourth set, the Spin Doctors seemed to lose their poise, momentum and fighting spirit after their third-set setback, which effectively ended their finals hopes.
Savouge had needed to win in three or four sets to remain in contention in the event of a three-way tie with Cignal and Criss Cross.
Coach Sydney Calderon urged the Spin Doctors to stay motivated and stick to their goal during a huddle, but the King Crunchers proved relentless. Sustained attacks and solid blocking widened their lead, with Nico Almendras delivering a crucial long ball attack to put Criss Cross at match point, 24-13.
Although a rare error briefly delayed their triumph, Ysay Marasigan sealed the victory with a decisive hit to secure their finals berth.
“We’re so blessed,” said team captain Marasigan, who led with 13 points, including 10 on attacks as Player of the Game.
He credited the team’s hard work and perseverance, saying, “Everything we worked for over the past few months has led us here. We’re back in the finals, and we’ll give it our best shot.”
Marasigan also praised his teammates for their contributions, adding, “All the work we’ve put in during training showed today. Everyone who came in delivered.”
Criss Cross established early control in the third set, surging to an 8-4 lead. However, Savouge, refusing to back down, clawed its way back to tie the score at 15 and later mounted a valiant rally from a 20-23 deficit to force an extension behind Shawie Caritativo’s heroic efforts.
But Criss Cross ultimately proved unyielding. Gian Glorioso delivered with his signature quick attack, and Jude Garcia sealed the deal with a contested blast, giving the King Crunchers a 2-1 set lead – and with it, a virtual ticket to the finals in the event of ties.
Jude Garcia top-scored once again for Criss Cross with 20 points, while Nico Almendras shone on both ends with 13 points, 19 excellent receptions, and five digs.
Glorioso scored six of his 12 points on blocks for the King Crunchers, who benefited from their opponents’ 32 errors.
Caritativo led the Spin Doctors’ effort with 25 points on 21 attacks, three blocks, and a service ace along with 16 excellent receptions.
Norwel Sanama added 13 points.