Defending champion Criss Cross shook off a second-set stumble to overcome Alpha Insurance in four sets, 25-22, 21-25, 25-21, 25-19, and extend its winning streak to three games in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Sunday night at the Filoil Centre.
Fresh off a reverse-sweep victory over Savouge, the King Crunchers overcame another stern test from the Protectors to remain unbeaten at 3-0, joining National University-Archipelago Builders and ClearSkiiin in a three-way tie for the top spot in the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Five-time MVP Jude Garcia, who was coming off a 25-point outing against the Spin Doctors, delivered another stellar performance, finishing with 22 points on 21 attacks and one block to help the King Crunchers preserve their unbeaten record.
“It’s a total team effort pa rin po kasi kahit sinong ipasok sa loob ng court, nagco-contribute talaga so ginagawa nila ‘yung role ng bawat isa,” said Garcia after the win.
“Yun ‘yung maganda sa team namin eh, kumbaga, kahit sinong hugutin ni Coach Tai (Bundit) sa bench, nagde-deliver talaga. Sobrang thankful ako sa teammates ko, sa management, and sa coaches,” he added.
While Criss Cross held the advantage in attacks, 59-51, Alpha Insurance made its presence felt at the net with a 9-8 edge in blocks and a 6-1 advantage in service aces.
Despite the Protectors' resistance, the King Crunchers remained composed and capitalized on 28 opponent errors to secure the victory.
Amil Pacinio and Ariel Cacao also made significant contributions for Criss Cross, with Pacinio tallying 16 points on 15 attacks and one ace, while Cacao provided a spark off the bench with 20 excellent sets to keep the offense clicking.
Kim Malabunga added nine points off the bench, while Noel Kampton and Lloyd Josafat chipped in six points apiece for the King Crunchers.
Criss Cross will shoot for a fourth consecutive victory when it takes on NU on November 4 at 1 p.m. at the same venue.
Meanwhile, Alpha Insurance absorbed its second straight loss to fall into a four-way tie for fifth to eighth place alongside Savouge, 3B, and AEP-Cabstars. All four teams hold identical 1-2 records.
Axel Van Book led the Protectors with 21 points and 15 excellent receptions, while Reymark Betco contributed 14 points and Vince Himzon added 10.
Alpha Insurance will look to bounce back when it faces AEP-Cabstars on November 4 at 3 p.m.
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