Alyssa Valdez remains focused on bouncing back after the Creamline Cool Smashers' tough loss to Petro Gazz Angels in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference semifinals.
Alyssa Valdez remains determined to lead the Creamline Cool Smashers forward after their four-set loss to the Petro Gazz Angels, 23-25, 22-25, 25-21, 16-25, in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference semifinals on Saturday, March 29.
Coming in with all the momentum from their dominant quarterfinals victory over the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, the Cool Smashers were handed a rare defeat at the hands of the Angels.
While the loss was not the ideal way to start the semis, Valdez emphasized the importance of moving on quickly.
“It was a tough loss, but I guess it’s not the ideal way to start the semifinals series. The coaches reminded us that it happened already, and we have to let it go because our next games are just as important,” Valdez told reporters after the match.
Despite the setback, the Creamline captain had her best all-around performance since returning from a four-month injury layoff, finishing with 10 points, 10 digs, and 10 receptions.
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As they aim to bounce back, Valdez acknowledged the challenge ahead as the Cool Smashers face the Akari Chargers and Choco Mucho Flying Titans in their remaining semis matches.
“It’s not the start we wanted, but the challenge is very big—and accepted. We put ourselves in this situation, so we have to find a way if we really want to keep our season alive.”
[ALSO READ: Alyssa Valdez hopes Creamline can sustain championship form amid rising competition in PVL]
Creamline will look to regain its footing when it faces Akari, fresh off their five-set escape of Choco Mucho, next at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig on Tuesday, April 1.