One epic win doesn’t define a championship team, but Criss Cross is determined to rewrite its narrative after falling short in its first attempt. Believing in second chances, the King Crunchers are focused on redemption as they aim to seize their moment in the spotlight.
Standing in their way are the formidable HD Spikers of Cignal, a squad that has amassed multiple championships, including a recent Open Conference title clinched at Criss Cross’s expense.
Now, the stage is set for a thrilling rematch – the winner-takes-all battle for the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference crown at 6 on Sunday night at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Anticipation is high for this high-stakes showdown, which promises to match or even surpass the drama and excitement of their previous encounters. Criss Cross triumphed in their recent clash, setting the tone with a four-set victory in the semis of the league organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
But Cignal rebounded to claim the second final spot, showcasing its grit and resilience.
Adding to the action, Savouge and DN Steel FEU will compete for the bronze medal in a 4 p.m. curtain-raiser expected to be just as gripping.
Cignal swept Criss Cross in their best-of-three series for the Open Conference trophy last May and eked out a thrilling five-set win during the elimination round in the Invitational. However, the King Crunchers have since sharpened their game, with a stellar semis performance that included a statement win against Kondohgumi Hyogo.
Middle blocker Chu Njigha, who led Criss Cross with 15 points in their semis sweep, expressed confidence in the team's readiness.
“Just like any other team, all of us players are prepared to go in at any time because we train equally and with the same energy,” said Njigha. “We want to carry that winning momentum from the semis into the championship.”
“We’re as excited as everyone else anticipating the game on Sunday,” he added. “Super gigil kami (we’re super eager) – we really want to get that win. Nandito na tayo, so might as well give our all.”
Criss Cross star hitter Jude Garcia is equally fired up, reflecting on the team’s preparation and their thrilling battles so far.
“Nakakapagod, pero sobrang ganda ng laro. Sobrang exciting kasi pinaghandaan namin ang isa’t isa, kaya sobrang ganda ng laban (It’s exhausting, but the game was truly great and exciting because we prepared for each other, resulting in such an incredible match),” said Garcia, referring to the recent clash with the HD Spikers where he drilled in 20 points.
“All the training we’ve done these past weeks paid off, but the conference isn’t over yet. I hope we can continue our winning streak,” he added.
Fans can catch the action live on One Sports and One Sports+, as well as on the Pilipinas Live app, which offers video-on-demand options. Matches will also be streamed via the official Spikers’ Turf website, ensuring no one misses a moment of the epic showdown.
