The Creamline Cool Smashers finally broke through.
After more than a year of setbacks against the PLDT High Speed Hitters, Creamline outlasted its rival in a five-set thriller, 22-25, 27-25, 19-25, 28-26, 15-10, to open its 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference semifinals campaign on a high note at the SM Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.
In the deciding fifth set, the Cool Smashers seized control behind a crucial 5-0 run anchored by Jema Galanza, Bernadeth Pons, and Bea De Leon. What was once a slim 5-4 edge quickly turned into a commanding 10-4 lead.
Creamline Snaps Skid
From there, Creamline never looked back, snapping its losing streak against PLDT—a skid that dated back to the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference.
“Siyempre, masayang-masaya kasi, unang-una, very entertaining ‘yung game para sa mga fans. Sobrang daming tao, at sobrang daming fans,” said Cool Smashers head coach Sherwin Meneses.
Pons led the Cool Smashers with 28 points built on 21 attacks, 4 blocks, and 3 aces, along with 22 excellent receptions and 16 excellent digs. Galanza added 17 points, while Alyssa Valdez chipped in 10 markers in limited action.
Jia Morado and Kyle Negrito shared playmaking duties, with Morado tallying 20 excellent sets. Kyla Atienza anchored the defense with 17 excellent digs.
For PLDT, Alleiah Malaluan paced the team with 23 points, while Savi Davison added 22. Kim Dy chipped in 16 points, and Majoy Baron finished with 10.
What’s Next in the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference
Tuesday, April 14 • Mall of Asia Arena • Semifinals
Farm Fresh Foxies vs. PLDT High Speed Hitters, 4:00 p.m.
Cignal Super Spikers vs. Creamline Cool Smashers, 6:30 p.m.
