Creamline overpowers Akari, captures ninth PVL crown
The Creamline Cool Smashers defied all odds after capturing their ninth Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference crown against first-time finalist Akari Chargers on Wednesday, September 5, at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
Despite the setbacks of not having the team’s key players Alyssa Valdez, Jema Galanza, and Tots Carlos, the heavily-favored Cool Smashers overcame the previously unbeaten Akari in straight sets, 25-15, 25-23, 25-17.
Creamline players rallied behind the efforts of Conference and Finals MVP Bernadeth Pons and reinforcement Erica Staunton to upset Akari with its first loss of the tournament. The stellar feat ensured the Rebisco-backed team its second Reinforced Conference crown and ninth overall title.
Pons steered the team with a game-high 19 points anchored on 14 attacks, five aces, along with 12 excellent digs and 13 excellent receptions, while Staunton added 13 markers with nine attacks and three blocks.
Team captain Michelle Gumabao, who displayed consistent offensive force throughout the competition, chipped in 10.
“With the hard work of our players, we got this championship,” coach Sherwin Meneses said.
But even adding another trophy to the team’s accolades, Meneses believes that Creamline can still produce better quality performance.
“We still have a lot of room to grow because our bench players are still young and I hope Creamline’s achievements continue,” he added.
American import Oly Okaro’s 14 points were not enough to ward off the Akari’s win streak from being unscathed.
Akari still made history after setting foot in the league’s finals for the first time and clinching its first-ever silver medal.
Best Outside Spiker Gretchel Soltones was the squad’s second-highest scorer with nine points, on top of seven excellent receptions and five excellent digs.
On the other hand, the Cignal HD Spikers bagged the bronze medal after hammering the PLDT High Speed Hitters in four sets, 20-25, 25-19, 25-18, 25-23.
Creamline will soon shift its focus and will try to keep its momentum as it embarks through the Invitational Conference where they will face off Cignal, Farm Fresh, and foreign teams Kurashiki and Est Cola.
