PLDT overwhelms undermanned Creamline in 5 sets to open Reinforced Conference

The PLDT High Speed Hitters are off to a winning start in Pool A of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference with Creamline Cool Smashers absorbing a rare-opening day loss on Tuesday, July 16, at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

The Rald Ricafort-coached squad snatched a 16-25, 25-22, 24-26, 25-19, 15-12 triumph against undermanned Creamline. 

Russian import Lena Samoilenko was the standout in the clash and took charge of the offense after tallying 34 points on 32 attacks and two aces, while Kath Arado displayed brilliance by protecting their side of the taraflex with 24 digs. 

Completing PLDT’s setup was Kim Fajardo who made the plays after tallying 19 markers.

The High Speed Hitters played without Savannah Davison who is out due to a knee injury that would sideline her indefinitely. Also, not available were Rhea Dimaculangan who is on leave and Dell Palomata who is training with the national team.

“That was absolutely a hard-fought win. That is what we prepared, to be mentally prepared in this type of competition,” Ricafort told the media during the post-game press conference.

“We know it is troublesome to have less players available, even the Creamline team got inadequate numbers of players but they still proceeded with the match. Definitely, a good win for us,” he added.

The Cool Smashers, on the other hand, played without stars Alyssa Valdez and Tots Carlos, while Jema Galanza’s absence was expected due to her commitment to Alas Pilipinas.

Creamline American reinforcement Erica Stauton led her pack with 20 points and 10 receptions, while Bernadeth Pons and Michele Gumabao added 18 and 16 points, respectively.

This marks the first time that Creamline lost a tournament opener in the PVL since 2019.

Up next for PLDT is Galeries Tower on Saturday, July 20, while Creamline matches up with Farm Fresh on the same day.