Criss Cross reaffirmed its dominance in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, surviving Mark Calado’s 36-point explosion and outlasting a resilient Savouge squad in a hard-fought five-set battle, 20-25, 25-13, 24-26, 25-19, 15-11, on Sunday night at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig, virtually securing a sweep of the double-round eliminations.
Despite dropping the pivotal third set – where Savouge erased two set points to steal the frame – the King Crunchers quickly regained control. They capitalized on their opponents’ seven unforced errors in the fourth set before relying on experience and defensive prowess to claim the decider.
Unlike their first-round encounter on March 2, where Criss Cross had to rally from a 1-2 deficit but convincingly closed out the fifth set, Savouge mounted a stronger challenge this time. The Spin Doctors kept it close in the final set, with Deanne De Pedro and Mark Calado leading the charge.
They erased an early two-point deficit and even seized a 10-9 lead following a De Pedro hit through the block.
However, Criss Cross once again proved why they are the team to beat. A costly service error by Shawie Caritativo tied the score at 10, setting the stage for a decisive 6-1 finishing run.
Jude Garcia, who spearheaded the King Crunchers with a game-high 27 points, blocked a Calado attack, followed by a De Pedro miscue. Moments later, Garcia capitalized on an errant Savouge overpass to widen the gap to 13-10.
With Savouge under pressure, De Pedro’s rushed attack attempt was met by Jaron Requinton’s towering block. Though Calado momentarily delayed Criss Cross’ victory, Ish Polvorosa orchestrated a flawless setup for Kim Malabunga, who delivered the final blow – just as they had done in key moments earlier in the match.
“We never give up, no matter the deficit. Everyone who steps in shows eagerness to win,” said Garcia in Filipino, highlighting the team’s growing maturity and resilience.
He also acknowledged the Spin Doctors’ improved form, particularly their service reception and aggressive offense.
“They really challenged us with their strong attacks, which is why they were able to take two sets,” said Garcia, who bagged another Best Player of the Game honors.
Still, Criss Cross proved superior when it mattered most, clinching their ninth straight victory and inching closer to a dream elimination-round sweep.
The King Crunchers will face the eliminated Navy Sealions at the close of the double round elims of the tournament organized by Sports Vision and supported by Arena Plus and Mikasa on Wednesday.
Garcia also came through with 11 excellent receptions, while Requinton backed him up with 22 points on 15 attacks, five kill blocks, and two aces on top of six excellent digs.
Savouge really prepared for us. Everyone really worked hard, not just me—it was truly a team effort in today's game. Whoever coach Tai (Bundit) put in the game, they really contributed," said Garcia. "It's a very good sign for the upcoming semifinals."
Gian Glorioso was a dominant presence at the net for the King Crunchers, delivering four kill blocks on his way to a solid 12-point performance, while Malabunga contributed eight markers.
Polvorosa orchestrated the offense masterfully, dishing out 28 excellent sets while also recording two points and eight excellent digs.
It was another heartbreaking loss for the Spin Doctors, who previously let a 2-1 set lead slip away against the Cignal HD Spikers.
Calado sizzled with 32 attacks and four kill blocks, tallying a conference-high 36 points. However, his efforts were in vain as Savouge fell to 5-4 in the standings, settling for third place.
Shawie Caritativo managed just 10 points but shone on defense with 16 excellent receptions. Meanwhile, Madz Gampong and Giles Torres each chipped in nine markers.
Despite the setback, the Spin Doctors remain determined to end their elims campaign on a high note. They aim to bounce back with a victory against fellow semifinalists, the VNS-Laticrete Griffins, in their upcoming match on Wednesday at 6 p.m.
