The Creamline Cool Smashers open the 2025 PVL Invitational with a hard-fought five-set victory over the Cignal HD Spikers, just days after their PVL on Tour bronze medal finish.
The Creamline Cool Smashers kicked off their 2025 PVL Invitational title defense on a high note after escaping the Cignal HD Spikers in a five-set thriller, 22-25, 25-17, 22-25, 25-11, 15-7, at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Thursday, August 21.
After closing the PVL on Tour with the bronze medal, the Cool Smashers made good on their promise of bouncing back in the Invitationals with a hard-fought victory over the HD Spikers.
In the fifth set, Creamline raced to a 7-3 lead behind the efforts of reigning Invitationals MVP Michele Gumabao.
Cignal tried to stay within striking distance, cutting the deficit to two points at 6-8. However, Alyssa Valdez restored Creamline’s momentum, pushing her squad ahead by as many as six points at 12-6.
The Cool Smashers closed the game out on a 7-2 blast with Jema Galanza scoring the final two points to seal the victory.
Gumabao led the way with 22 points built on 18 attacks and four blocks, to go along with 15 excellent digs.
Creamline moved to 1-1 in the standings, while Cignal dropped to 0-2 due to the PVL on Tour semifinal results carrying over to the Invitationals.
Up next for the Cool Smashers will be the Chery Tiggo Crossovers on Saturday, August 23, still at the PhilSports Arena.