CREAMLINE Cool Smashers tightened its grip on the top spot early in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference after dispatching Ho Chi Minh City of Vietnam in straight sets, 25-18, 25-16, 25-6, Tuesday night at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.
The Cool Smashers improved to 2-0 in the six-team tournament, becoming the only unbeaten team after two days of action.
After needing four sets to get past Nxled in their opening game, Creamline had little trouble dealing with the Vietnamese side, especially in the final frame where it raced to a 10-0 lead and never looked back.
Jema Galanza played another solid all-around game for the Cool Smashers, finishing with 12 points and 15 excellent digs to earn Player of the Game honors.
Galanza admitted that the demanding schedule has been physically taxing, but said the team’s preparation has helped them cope with the back-to-back games.
“Of course, we get tired, but for two months, our coaches, conditioning coach, and physical therapist really prepared us for this. That’s why I trust the preparation they put us through,” said Galanza.
She also emphasized the importance of maintaining the proper mindset despite the physical demands.
“So for me, I just focus on my mindset – what kind of mood and personality I need to bring into the game,” she added.
Creamline gradually pulled away in the opening set before taking control in the second. The Cool Smashers then completely overwhelmed Ho Chi Minh City in the third.
Michele Gumabao helped ignite the decisive final-set surge with four points during Creamline’s opening 10-0 run. Kyle Negrito added a service ace, while Galanza delivered a kill block as the Cool Smashers immediately put the Vietnamese side under pressure.
Ho Chi Minh City finally got on the board through Thi Kim Thanh Dang, but Creamline continued to pile on the points and reached a commanding 17-1 advantage.
The Cool Smashers eventually gave their reserves an opportunity to finish the match, with Bea de Leon providing the closing block to complete the dominant victory.
Sachi Minowa and Tots Carlos chipped in 12 points each, while Alyssa Valdez added nine. Pangs Panaga and Gumabao contributed six apiece as Creamline showcased its depth on offense.
Dang led the Vietnamese squad with eight points, while Le Thi My Xuyen and Dao Thi Nung managed six and four, respectively.
Ho Chi Minh City dropped to 0-2 following its second consecutive defeat in the tournament. (Adrian Co)
