by: Jesslie Joed Yu || Photo Credit: PVL Images/Manila Bulletin

Creamline Cool Smashers proved their dominance in the finals match of the PVL Invitational Conference after a 3-set sweep against KingWhale Taipei, 25-21, 25-19, 25-8, at the Mall of Asia Arena last Sunday, August 14.

Tots Carlos, the conference’s Most Valuable Player led Creamline’s victory with 14 points, followed by Jema Galanza with 13 markers, and the Finals Most Valuable Player, Ced Domingo with 11 points.

“Everyone is focused, we really have to go all out to secure this game since it is only a 1-game finals match,” said Finals MVP Ced Domingo.

In the first set, Creamline established a strong start with an early 6-1 run that pushed the Taiwanese team to step up their game. KingWhale tried to crawl back by making a 5-2 run which closed the gap to a 2-point deficit, 21-19, but Domingo proved her MVP prowess and stopped their momentum with a block, slashing the first blood, 25-21. 

Eager to turn the tables, KingWhale owned the second set from start to mid game, maintaining a 5-point gap against Creamline. But the Cool Smashers denied their attempt and came alive with the service ace of Valdez, restoring order with a massive 15-3 run that halted the set to 25-19.

Creamline broke the spirits of the KingWhale as they dominated the third set with ease, not even letting them score in double-digits as Valdez finished the game with a powerful kill to clinch the championship, 25-8.

Performing 9 points on the scoreboard along with 13 excellent digs and 8 excellent receptions, Alyssa Valdez remained as the best outside spiker despite her recent ankle injury. 

Meanwhile, KingWhale Taipei’s great playmaker Liao Yi-Jen and agile defender Qui Shi-Qing nabbed the best setter and best libero awards, respectively. 

As agreed, the champions Creamline faces no break as they now fly out to defend the country’s pride as representatives in the AVC Cup 2022.

“Not all are given the chance to represent or be in the national team. We’re glad that the whole team will represent, and we’ll really give our best to give all teams a nice game. We’re really excited to play,” said Conference MVP Tots Carlos.