By: Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
Despite the absence of superstar Alyssa Valdez due to therapy for her injured ankle, the Creamline Cool Smashers still managed to pull off a masterful display of volleyball against the Pacifictown-Army after crushing them in straight sets, 25-15, 25-18, 25-22, in the 2019 quarterfinals of the Premier Volleyball League.
Rolling and sizzling in their 14th consecutive victory, the Cool Smashers carried on the momentum they got from their astonishing elimination round.
Risa Sato filled in the shoes of Valdez, chipping in 13 points off nine kills with three huge blocks, including taking over the leadership responsibilities of their absent captain by calminh the team down when defensive miscommunications happen.
The Creamline offense proved too much to handle for Army as Jema Galanza and Rosemarie Vargas fired on all cylinders, tallying 11 and 10 points respectively.
“Going to the semifinals, it’s really helpful for the team lalo na nga maraming nakakalaro so the confidence of each and everyone is very crucial pagdating ng semifinals. We all know na iba yung nilalaro ng lahat ng teams sa final four at least everyone will be ready kung sino ipapasok at tatawagin ni coach Tai.” Valdez said.
