Criss Cross and Savouge collide in what many believe could be a preview of the championship showdown as they square off on Sunday in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference at the FilOil Playtime Centre.
Game time is set at 5 p.m., with both teams entering the highly anticipated clash unbeaten after sweeping their first four matches in dominant fashion.
Despite it being only a first-round encounter, the match carries the intensity and stakes of a finals duel as two of the league’s most talented squads put their perfect records on the line.
Criss Cross has looked nearly untouchable in its bid for another title, showcasing a deep and disciplined roster that operates like a well-oiled machine, dropping just one set in four matches. The King Crunchers have imposed their will through efficient offense, strong floor defense, and relentless net presence.
Leading the charge is four-time MVP Jude Garcia, who appears to be hitting peak form after erupting for 26 points in last Friday’s victory over 3B.
But Garcia is only one piece of a loaded lineup capable of delivering on any given night. Newcomer Alche Gupiteo has played beyond expectations, while Noel Kampton, Lloyd Josafat, Kim Malabunga, Adriad Villados, and libero John Pepito continue to provide stability and depth for the defending powerhouse.
Savouge, however, may finally have the roster capable of challenging the King Crunchers’ dominance.
Armed with a souped-up lineup bannered by prized recruits Louie Ramirez and JP Bugaoan, the Spin Doctors have also looked sharp and cohesive through their first four games, emerging as a legitimate title contender.
Ramirez and Bugaoan bring championship pedigree after playing key roles in Cignal’s victories over Criss Cross in three of the last four Spikers’ Turf finals – experience Savouge hopes will finally help solve a puzzle that has long frustrated the franchise.
The Spin Doctors have lost seven straight meetings to the King Crunchers, including several painful five-set defeats. Their closest breakthrough came in last year’s Invitational Conference semifinals when a late rally fell just short of pulling off a massive upset.
Savouge head coach Sydney Calderon believes the addition of the two seasoned standouts could make the difference this time.
“Never pa kami nanalo sa kanila, lagi lang kaming fifth set. Malaking bagay sina Louie at JP kasi gina-guide nila ‘yung mga mainstays namin at shine-share nila ‘yung best practices nila sa Cignal,” said Calderon.
“Sabi ko sa team ko, hindi madaling kalaban ang Criss Cross as always. Gusto ko lang makita na nag-e-enjoy sila sa court. Kapag may enjoyment at focus sa laro, unstoppable ‘yung mga bata ko. Ready na kami sa bakbakan,” added Calderon.
Backing Ramirez and Bugaoan is a deep supporting cast that includes Mark Calado, Shawie Caritativo, Giles Torres, Rikko Marmeto, and Vince Imperial – all capable of stepping up in a high-pressure showdown.
With both squads boasting elite talent, the outcome could ultimately hinge on strategy, composure, and execution in the most anticipated match of the conference so far.
Garcia stressed the team is preparing for a serious test against a Savouge side that continues to build chemistry with its new additions.
“Talagang paghahandaan namin sila, 100 percent. Knowing Savouge, ang ganda ng set of players nila ngayon. Kailangan talaga mentally at physically ready kami para makuha namin,” said the three-time Spikers’ Turf champion.
The marquee showdown caps a Sunday tripleheader that promises high-octane action among the league’s top teams.
In the 1 p.m. opener, 3B (1-3) faces AEP-Cabstars (1-3), while Alpha Insurance (2-2) battles VNS Always Bright Laticrete (0-4) at 3 p.m.
Carl Berdal, Israel Encina, and Kenneth Daynata will try to lead 3B out of a two-game skid, while Jay Rack De La Noche, Vince Abrot, and Jared Schnake hope to lift AEP-Cabstars from back-to-back losses.
Meanwhile, Alpha Insurance – led by Jau Umandal, JM Ronquillo, and Edward Camposano – aims for a second straight win, while VNS Always Bright Laticrete hopes to avoid a winless first round behind Terrence Marticion, Howard Guerra, and Jerzy Santos.
