One game away from advancing to the finals.
Coming into their semifinals bout, the Creamline Cool Smashers had yet to defeat the F2 Logistics Cargo Movers in the PVL.
But all that changed in Game 1 of the All-Filipino Conference semis. The Cool Smashers proved that they have what it takes to defeat their rivals, winning in four sets, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 25-15.
“Siyempre happy kami kasi it's semifinals na eh, so timing 'yung pagkapanalo namin, pero hindi pa naman tapos 'yung laban, so kailangan pa talagang mag-prepare,” said coach Sherwin Meneses.
Michele Gumabao once again showed why she is in the running for the Best Spiker award this conference, finishing with 21 points on 20 attacks and a block.
When asked what was the difference this time around, Gumabao pointed towards their mindset facing the Cargo Movers.
“We just have to stay consistent pero what changed siguro was our mindset,” said Gumabao. “Kailangan consistent kami, kailangan ma-close out namin 'yung game, ma-control namin 'yung mga errors namin and talagang pagtiyagaan namin kasi hindi naman din talaga sila madaling kalaban.”
Creamline will have two days to prepare for Game 2, where they will look to close out F2 Logistics and advance to the finals to defend their title.
“Sa lahat naman, napakahirap 'yung mag-close eh, pero we have two days naman sa preparation. Sana maging healthy kami sa two days sa upcoming Tuesday game, so 'yun muna 'yung unahin namin,” said Meneses.
The Tuesday match between the Cool Smashers and Cargo Movers is scheduled at 6:30 p.m at the MOA Arena in Pasay City.
(With reports from Jamie Velasco, One Sports Digital)