Creamline makes quick work of PLDT; Maizo-Pontillas lifts Petro Gazz vs Balipure

An inspired Creamline made easy work of a retooled PLDT through a straight-sets romp, 25-16, 25-18, 25-22, to open their campaign on the right foot on Thursday in the 2022 PVL Open Conference.

After gaining a commanding 2-0 set lead, the Cool Smashers further asserted dominance in the third frame, leading 8-2 early with Tots Carlos and Risa Sato leading the way.

They continued pounding on their opponents and headed to the second technical timeout with a 16-6 cushion capped by a one-two punch from prized setter Jia Morado.

PLDT, now bannered by Mika Reyes, Jovy Prado, and Kath Arado, put up some fight in the final stretch after unleashing a 5-0 blitz that saw them cut their deficit to just four, 16-12.

Three consecutive errors from the side of Creamline made it a 21-20 affair before a strong hammer from Carlos gave the Cool Smashers the match point, 24-22. An attack error from Chinchin Basas sealed the win for Creamline.

The High Speed Hitters, who had a huge recruitment haul in the off-season, also committed a slew of errors in the first two sets and gave away 17 points to the other side.

Carlos wound up 16 points anchored on 13 attacks, two blocks, and an ace while skipper Alyssa Valdez shone with 13 points. Jema Galanza chipped in 10 markers as Creamline went 1-0.

Meanwhile, Aiza Maizo-Pontillas proved she's still has it as she led a rejigged Petro Gazz past Balipure, 25-14, 25-20, 23-25, 25-21, to jumpstart their bid after a third-place finish last season.

The grizzled opposite hitter showed up in the clutch moment to finish with 10 points while also being effective on the defensive end with 14 digs across her name.

Grethcel Soltones, Rem Palma, and MJ Phillips were also pivotal in the win after pouring in 12 markers apiece. The 26-year-old Soltones had an all-around outing with 14 digs and 11 successful receptions.

Balipure, meanwhile, was led by Janine Marciano who listed a game-high 19 points off 15 attacks, three blocks, and one service ace while Geneveve Casugod chipped in 11 in the losing cause.

—MGP, GMA News