Criss Cross reasserted its dominance over DN Steel FEU, showcasing its formidable power game in a commanding 25-21, 25-21, 25-11 victory at the start of the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference semifinal round on Wednesday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
The King Crunchers and Ultras clashed in an intense duel of power and precision through the first two sets. However, Criss Cross displayed superior composure and execution in critical moments, extending its stellar form from the preliminaries, where it topped the standings.
Combining tactical mastery with raw power, the King Crunchers overwhelmed the youthful Ultras, whom they had previously beaten in four sets during the eliminations. A dominant 15-5 start in the third set left no doubt about the outcome, as Criss Cross secured the win and emphasized its readiness for another finals push.
This victory also set the stage for a highly anticipated rematch with arch-rival Cignal on Sunday. The HD Spikers had edged the King Crunchers in a five-set thriller during the preliminaries and swept them in the Open Conference finals last May.
“Actually, for the past few trainings namin, as in pinapagalitan ko talaga ‘yung team na kailangan mag-focus na tayo ngayon kasi last conference ng Spikers’ Turf, medyo nag-relax kami, nadelikado kami,” said team captain Ysay Marasigan.
“Nakatsamba kami last time kaya kami nakapasok ng finals, pero ngayon hindi na pwede ‘yung ganun, hindi na pwede ‘yung relaxed, hindi na pwede ‘yung complacent. Sobrang naka-focus talaga kami sa lahat ng instructions ni coach Tai [Bundit],” Marasigan added.
Garcia delivered another standout performance, leading all scorers with 18 points, including 13 kills on 21 attempts, four service aces, and a block.
Marasigan added 12 points and four excellent digs, while Gian Glorioso anchored the defense with six kill blocks and nine points overall.
Nico Almendras and Rex Intal also chipped in six markers each, with Almendras contributing 11 excellent receptions.
Ish Polvorosa orchestrated the offense with 16 excellent sets, propelling Criss Cross to its seventh straight win and a 1-0 start in the semifinals of the Invitational Conference, organized by Sports Vision and supported by ArenaPlus, Mikasa, and Alpha Insurance & Surety Company.
The King Crunchers aim to continue their streak against rival Cignal on Sunday at 6:00 p.m. at the same venue.
Meanwhile, the Ultras, who ended the eliminations with back-to-back losses to Criss Cross and Cignal, extended their skid to three games.
Dryx Saavedra was their lone bright spot, scoring 15 points, all on attacks, while Mikko Espartero contributed nine markers.
FEU hopes to bounce back and avoid falling to 0-2 when it faces the HD Spikers on Friday at 4:00 p.m., also at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
