As the race for a coveted semifinal slot heats up in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference, Francis Saura is finding his rhythm just when Criss Cross needs him most.
Saura has become a vital piece for the King Crunchers after joining in the off-season.
The decorated opposite spiker previously showcased his talent with D’Navigators Iloilo, claiming the 2024 Open Conference Best Opposite Spiker award and leading the team to a bronze finish.
However, his start with Criss Cross was anything but smooth, as he navigated a new role under head coach Tai Bundit’s system—a system known for its intensity and precision.
“Okay naman ‘yung adjustments ko sa team so far. Still adjusting pa rin, may mga lapses pa rin, pero in total parang nakaka-adjust naman ako sa sistema ng team namin,” Saura shared.
Despite a quiet seven-point outing in a tough November 3 loss to rival Cignal, Saura roared back with two strong performances that helped his team notch crucial wins.
In their bounce-back match against PGJC-Navy’s Sealions, he tallied 12 points, including three critical kill blocks, solidifying the team’s frontline defense.
Days later, he delivered an even more impressive 14-point showing against Martelli Meats’ Master Butchers, pushing Criss Cross further up the standings.
These standout performances have propelled the King Crunchers into a tight tie with Cignal and Savouge, all holding a 4-1 win-loss record and battling for position in the top five.
Saura’s contributions on both offense and defense have fueled this push, underscoring his value to the team.
“Siguro masasabi ko lang, marami pa kaming kailangan i-polish pa. Syempre hindi naman natatapos ‘yung improvement eh, there’s always room for improvement ika nga,” he said.
For Saura, this endgame stretch is about more than just winning; it’s about fortifying the team’s trust and unity.
“Sa susunod naming mga laban, matitibay na ‘yung mga teams so mas papatibayin namin ‘yung opensa saka depensa namin, ‘yung tiwala sa sarili, sa mga coaches, at sa mga teammates namin,” he added.
