Creamline, Cignal target lead share

Established squads Creamline and Cignal are expected to run roughshod over a pair of winless teams as they shoot for a share of the lead with idle Choco Mucho as competition in the Premier Volleyball League heats up Thursday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

In the opener at 4 p.m., Creamline tackles Galeries Tower while Cignal deals with Nxled at 6 p.m. with victories giving them a 3-0 win-loss record like Choco Mucho.

While the rosters of Galeries Tower and Nxled pale in comparison with their fancied foes, it would be foolish for Creamline and Cignal to think that all they have to do is show up.

The Chameleons, coming off a week-long rest, aim to present a tough challenge for the HD Spikers.

Between Galeries and Nxled, however, the Chameleons are seen as having a favorable chance to surprise the HD Spikers.

Coach Taka Minowa and his team need to make the necessary adjustments against their rivals, who previously drubbed the Akari Chargers in four and swept the Highrisers.

Ivy Lacsina, a key player for Nxled, seeks improvement following her 12-point performance against the PLDT High Speed Hitters. She will be supported by players such as Camille Victoria, Krich Macaslang, Lycha Ebon and Kamille Cal.

Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos, on the other hand, expresses confidence in his team's ability to extend their win run behind Ces Molina, Vanie Gandler, Roselyn Doria, Jovelyn Gonzaga, Riri Meneses and Chin Basas, alongside top playmaker Gel Cayuna and defense specialist Dawn Catindig.

Creamline coach Sherwin Meneses, meanwhile, anticipates another strong performance from his team, anchored on Tots Carlos, Jema Galanza, Pangs Panaga, Alyssa Valdez, Michele Gumabao and middle Bea de Leon and setter Kyle Negrito.

Carlos, inspired by her recent career-high 31-point game against the Chargers last week, is poised for another impactful contribution against the Highrisers, who are yet to post a set win in two games.