Fresh from a statement four-set victory over defending champion and archrival Cignal, Criss Cross braces for another stern test as it battles an unpredictable Savouge side on Wednesday in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Paco Arena in Manila.
The King Crunchers, who roared to a spotless 3-0 record after foiling the Super Spikers in a gritty 25-23, 24-26, 25-22, 25-18 triumph last Sunday, are determined to keep their momentum going as the tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings N’ Things, and Arena Plus heats up.
Anchored on the steady playmaking of young setter Adrian Villados and the offensive brilliance of three-time league MVP Jude Garcia, Criss Cross has emerged as the early benchmark this conference. The King Crunchers’ blend of power, precision and defensive discipline has made them the most balanced squad so far – a team that can weather tense moments and finish strong under pressure.
At 4 p.m., however, the King Crunchers face a different kind of challenge in Savouge – a team whose unpredictable style and never-say-die attitude make it a dangerous opponent capable of springing a surprise.
Despite their early dominance, Garcia remains cautious, stressing that consistency and focus will be key to sustaining their winning run.
“Lahat na-apply talaga ‘yung tinuro ni coach Tai (Bundit), kung ano ‘yung ginalaw namin sa Thailand. Pero marami pang lapses – kailangan pa namin trabahuhin kung ano ‘yung kulang at mag-focus lang every game,” said Garcia, who delivered 24 points in their win over Cignal last Sunday.
Garcia and company know that complacency could spell trouble, especially against a Savouge team slowly finding its rhythm.
After dropping their opening-day match, the Spin Doctors have bounced back with back-to-back victories powered by the trio of Mark Calado, Shawie Caritativo and rising star Reymark Betco. Their offensive variety and improved floor defense have turned them into legitimate spoilers – a team capable of pushing even the top contenders to their limits.
If Savouge can sustain its offensive flow and minimize errors, it could test the mettle of Criss Cross, which has occasionally shown vulnerability in long rallies and reception lapses. Still, the King Crunchers’ depth and experience give them a slight edge, especially with the likes of Garcia, Jeron Requinton, Noel Kampton, Paul Colinares and Kim Malabunga providing the firepower in crunch time.
Meanwhile, Cignal (2-1) aims to rebound from that stinging defeat when it faces PGJC-Navy (0-3) at 6 p.m. The Super Spikers are hoping to regain form after committing 28 unforced errors against Criss Cross – a number they can ill afford to repeat.
Louie Ramirez, Steven Rotter and JP Bugaoan will lead Cignal’s charge as they seek to polish their execution and reclaim their winning groove, while the Sealions, bannered by Greg Dolor, Peter Quiel, and Joeven Dela Vega, look to finally crack the win column and keep their flickering hopes alive.
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