Creamline clinches semis spot with sweep of PLDT; Cignal blanks Farm Fresh

Creamline solidified its title defense bid as it advanced to the semifinals round of the 2023 PVL Invitational Conference after sweeping PLDT, 25-21, 25-20, 25-21, on Thursday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

Tots Carlos led the way with 22 points built on 17 attacks, two blocks, and three service aces alongside eight receptions as the Cool Smashers improved to 3-0 in Pool A while the high Speed Hitters slid to 1-1.

Jema Galanza had 12 markers and six digs as team captain Alyssa Valdez is slowly regaining her old form as she chipped in 12 points laced with eight digs.

Creamline returns to action this Saturday against Akari at 4 p.m. while PLDT takes on Gerflor at 12 p.m.

Meanwhile, Cignal copped its second straight win after blanking Farm Fresh, 25-18, 25-19, 25-18, to force a three-way tie at the top spot in Pool B, along with F2 Logistics and Petro Gazz with identical 3-1 records.

Seasoned outside spiker Ces Molina shone anew for the HD Spikers, finishing with a game-high 16 points while Jovelyn Gonzaga churned out 12 markers.

Cignal will look to boost its semis drive when it squares off with Choco Mucho on Tuesday at 4 p.m. while Farm Fresh will face Foton on Saturday at 9:30 a.m.

—Bea Micaller/JKC, GMA Integrated News