Angels, Cool Smashers begin title series

It’s the familiar storyline of “Dynasty vs Destiny” when multi-titled defending champion Creamline and Petro Gazz renew their rivalry in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference finals on Tuesday, April 8, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Game is at 6:30 p.m. with both teams seeking to draw the first blood in the anticipated thrilling best-of-three championship series.

The Cool Smashers seek to fortify their dynastic reign in the league as they gun for a fourth straight All-Filipino title and 11th crown overall.

But standing their way are the Angels, who have been aching for that elusive first All-Filipino trophy after slipping it from their grasp two years ago.

The hunger for that first-ever All-Filipino crown is evident on Petro Gazz, with key players Brooke Van Sickle and Myla Pablo stressing they are giving “200 percent” of their best in this last stage of the tournament.

“Andito na kami sa finals. Bibitawan pa ba namin yung opportunity?” said Pablo, who has been contributing significant numbers particularly in the crunch.

Veteran setter Chie Saet echoed the sentiment and said they would do what it takes to clinch the title.

“Lahat naman ng teams dito sa PVL, gustong mag-champion. Andito na kami, pinagtrabahuhan namin para makarating dito. Tatapusin din namin nang maayos,” Saet vowed.

Easier said than done.

Armed with championship experience and a deep lineup, Creamline is expected to be a tough nut to crack. After all, they are in their record-extending 14th finals appearance.

But the Cool Smashers are not taking this matchup lightly, knowing fully well the capabilities of the Angels.

“It’s always a classic battle whenever we face Petro Gazz in the Finals. We know it’s going to be tough, so we need to work even harder,” said veteran skipper Alyssa Valdez.

“One key thing is listening to our coaches because they see the game from a different perspective. Communication will be crucial, especially in tight moments,” she added.

Tots Carlos, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of executing their system under head coach Sherwin Meneses.

“For coach Sherwin’s system to work, teamwork is essential. We don’t have to take every ball – we just need to play our roles effectively. The last time we faced Petro Gazz, we struggled with ball control, so now, our mindset is to cover our areas and play disciplined volleyball,” said Carlos.

Meanwhile, Choco Mucho and Akari will battle for third place in their own best-of-three series, starting at 4 p.m.