Strong 3rd set sends Criss Cross to finals

Criss Cross secured its place in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference finals in dominant fashion, delivering a flawless performance in the crucial third set before overwhelming Savouge in the fourth to seal a 25-22, 22-25, 26-24, 25-13 victory at the FilOil EcoOil Arena on Wednesday.

Building on their spectacular showing in the swing frame, the King Crunchers unleashed a blistering 11-4 start in the fourth set, maintaining control with a commanding 17-9 lead.

What had been a tight, hard-fought match turned into a runaway victory, earning Criss Cross its second consecutive championship appearance with a flawless 3-0 (win-loss) slate in the five-team semifinals.

This time, however, the King Crunchers are poised for redemption after falling to the Cignal HD Spikers in a sweep during the Open Conference finals last May.

Meanwhile, the HD Spikers (2-1) are gunning for the other championship berth against the winless Kondohgumi Hyogo side at press time.

Criss Cross anticipated a grueling contest after Savouge evened the match at one set apiece.

Despite being outgunned, 15-21, in attacks during the third frame, the King Crunchers committed zero unforced errors, a stark contrast to Savouge’s 10 critical mistakes. These miscues tipped the balance in favor of Criss Cross, which capitalized to take the pivotal set.

While the King Crunchers remained focused and composed in the fourth set, the Spin Doctors seemed to lose their poise, momentum and fighting spirit after their third-set setback, which effectively ended their finals hopes. Savouge had needed to win in three or four sets to remain in contention in the event of a three-way tie with Cignal and Criss Cross.

Savouge coach Sydney Calderon urged his wards to stay motivated and stick to their goal during a huddle, but the King Crunchers proved relentless. Sustained attacks and solid blocking widened their lead, with Nico Almendras delivering a crucial long ball attack to put Criss Cross at match point, 24-13.

Although a rare error briefly delayed their triumph, Ysay Marasigan sealed the victory with a decisive hit to secure their finals berth.