Back on the winning track, Criss Cross shoots for the second semifinals slot in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, facing also-ran Philippine Air Force at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig on Sunday.
Fresh off a four-set triumph over the PGJC-Navy Sealions, the 5-1 King Crunchers look to dominate the Airmen in their 6 p.m. clash and join tormentor Cignal in the post-elims stage of the tournament organized by Sports Vision.
Despite Air Force’s 1-5 record, however, Criss Cross setter Geuel Asia cautions his teammates not to underestimate their opponents, especially considering their young roster.
“Huwag lang kami magkumpyansa dahil alam namin na nasa ilalim sila at puro bata sila. Hindi porket bata sila iisipin agad namin na beterano kami,” said Asia, who made 21 excellent sets and scored four points off the bench against the Sealions last Friday.
The King Crunchers used their superior firepower to halt the Sealions’ run. With players like Chu Njigha and Pemie Bagalay stepping up, and Jude Aguilar, Kim Malabunga and Ysay Marasigan delivering consistently, Criss Cross is poised for another strong performance.
New acquisitions Pol Salvador and Bryan Jaleco, meanwhile, will anchor Airmen’s bid to derail the King Crunchers and mark their fruitless campaign on a winning note.
In the 4 p.m. match, Savouge Aesthetics aims to bolster its semis chances against the ousted Maverick. With a 2-3 slate, the fifth-running Spin Doctors need a victory to stay in contention for a semis berth.
Middle blockers JD Diwa and Charlee Magpayo will be key players for Savouge, which is in fifth spot behind the third-running PGJC Navy (5-2) and fourth-placed D’Navigators (4-2).
