Galang, Peñafiel star as Chery Tiggo shocks Creamline in thriller

Chery Tiggo pulled off a major upset after outlasting powerhouse Creamline in five sets, 25-20, 24-26, 21-25, 25-17, 17-15, in the 2025 PVL Invitational Conference on Saturday at the PhilSports Arena. 

The Crossovers relied on the veteran-rookie duo of Ara Galang and Renee Peñafiel as they improved to 2-1 while the Cool Smashers were sent to a 1-2 card. 

Galang starred in the epic duel with 20 points anchored on 15 attacks, four blocks, and one ace while rookie Peñafiel showed up with 18 markers on 15 attacks and three aces. 

Chery Tiggo endured a 1-5 start in the deciding frame with Michele Gumabao wreaking havoc, but Pauline Gastons provided the spark back with back-to-back points that allowed Chery Tiggo to pull within one, 7-8. 

Peñafiel then served up an ace to tie things up at 10-all before she denied Gumabao on the opposite side to clinch a match point at 15-14. 

Gumabao atoned for it by unloading a strong kill to force another deadlock, but her own service error broke the tie and eventually enabled Chery TIggo to complete the epic victory. 

Jema Galanza charged with 23 points on 20 attacks, two aces, and one block laced with 10 digs and 12 receptions while Gumabao tallied 21 markers. 

—JKC, GMA Integrated News