Creamline triumphs over rival Petro Gazz in their opening game of the PVL All-Filipino title defense, without starting player Valdez.
The Creamline Cool Smashers triumphed in their first match of the 2023 season, defeating the Petro Gazz Angels in the highly-anticipated 2023 PVL All-Filipino Conference Finals. The thrilling encounter took place at the iconic Araneta Coliseum on February 4, 2023.
In the absence of their star player Alyssa Valdez, Creamline relied on the stellar performances of Michele Gumabao and Ced Domingo, who scored 13 points each. Pangs Panaga contributed 10 points, while two-time MVP Tots Carlos added 11 points to the team's tally.
The match was a closely contested affair, with Petro Gazz leading 22-21 late in the game. However, Creamline managed to stage a comeback, securing the win with a point scored by Jonah Sabete, who capitalised on an attack error by Petro Gazz.
Coach Sherwin Meneses of Creamline highlighted the importance of excellent service reception at crucial parts of the match, as opponents tend to catch up in the second and third sets.
Despite the loss, Petro Gazz coach Oliver Almadro, who began his first PVL stint away from the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, saw positives in his team's campaign and expressed optimism about Petro Gazz winning the All-Filipino title soon.
MJ Phillips, a star blocker for Petro Gazz, was sidelined due to an apparent shoulder injury, and Myla Pablo, another key player, was absent due to being F2-bound. Petro Gazz aims for a bounce-back against Choco Mucho later on the same day at 6:30 pm.
The victorious Creamline Cool Smashers will play against the Cignal HD Spikers for a potential quick winning streak on February 9, 4 pm, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.
Sporting enthusiasts across the Philippines rejoiced as the Creamline Cool Smashers claimed their first victory of the 2023 season in the 2023 PVL All-Filipino Conference Finals, held at the Araneta Coliseum on February 4, 2023. The close-fought match, featuring the lacking presence of star player Alyssa Valdez, witnessed impressive performances from Michele Gumabao, Ced Domingo, Pangs Panaga, and Tots Carlos, whose combined points secured the victory for Creamline over Petro Gazz Angels.
