Criss Cross survived the defending champion Cignal in a five-set thriller, 26-24, 22-25, 25-22, 24-26, 15-12, to cap a historic first Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference game held at Smart Araneta Coliseum.
Three-time Conference and inaugural Season MVP Jude Garcia took matters into his own hands with a 28-point explosion off 22 kills, four blocks, and two aces.
‘I’m really happy because it’s my first time playing at Araneta. You usually only get to play here in the UAAP,’ said Garcia in Filipino.
‘I’m really thankful to Spikers’ Turf for bringing the league to the Big Dome. It’s a huge level-up for men’s volleyball in the Philippines. I hope the fans continue supporting us.’
Jaron Requinton also stepped up with 16 points, anchoring a 9-0 run from a 17-24 deficit in the first set that set the tone in asserting their mastery of Cignal. The King Crunchers beat the defending champion twice in the tournament.
Setter Adrian Villados had 30 excellent sets, seven digs, and three blocks including the game-winning rejection on Jau Umandal. Noel Kampton had nine points, while Nico Almendras, Popoy Colinares, and Gian Glorioso added six points each.
Criss Cross eyes its second win against Japan’s Kindai University on Saturday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City at 3 p.m.
Steven Rotter led the Super Spikers with 25 points off 22 kills and three blocks, while Umandal dropped 21 points.
Cignal tries to bounce back against University of Santo Tomas-Gameville, which upset them in the elimination round, also on Saturday at 5 p.m.