Creamline weathers F2 Logistics in five-setter to open PVL Invitational Conference semis bid

Creamline rode on a strong showing in the deciding set to escape F2 Logistics, 12-25, 25-15, 23-25, 30-28, 15-7 and kick off its semifinals bid in style in the 2023 PVL Invitational Conference on Thursday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

The Cool Smashers improved to 1-0 while the Cargo Movers went 0-1 in the single round robin playoff round.

Staring at a 2-1 set deficit, Creamline regained control of the game early in the fourth set as they looked to force a fifth set. However, F2 Logistics eventually restored order as Ivy Lacsina notched back-to-back attacks to steal the lead and send the Cargo Movers to match point, 25-24.

Tied again at 28-all, Ced Domingo went for a quick attack before Jema Galanza's off-the-block hit dragged the game into fifth set. The defending champions were then unstoppable in the final frame, opening it with a furious 9-1 rampage led by team captain Alyssa Valdez and Risa Sato.

Galanza's two consecutive points sent Creamline at match point, 14-4, before F2 saved three. Sato, though, soared for a quick attack off a one-handed set from Jia Morado to seal the deal.

Galanza led the team in scoring with 20 points built on 17 attacks, two aces, and one block while Tots Carlos and Valdez finished with 19 and 17 markers, respectively. Domingo also reached double-digit output with 16 points.

Cignal kicked off its semifinals bid in a rousing fashion as well, blanking PLDT with a 25-22, 25-15, 25-21 statement victory.

The HD Spikers leaned on the veteran duo of Jovelyn Gonzaga and Ces Molina as the former made her presence felt on both ends with a team-high 17 points laced with six digs and 10 excellent receptions while the latter chipped in 12 markers.

Cignal will look to secure back-to-back wins when it takes on Creamline on Saturday at 4 p.m. while PLDT will be eyeing for a bounce back win against F2 on the same day.

—Bea Micaller/JKC, GMA Integrated News