Criss Cross shatters Savouge in straight sets, secures No. 1 seed

Criss Cross emerged as the top-seeded team after sweeping Savouge, 25-22, 25-21, 25-22, concluding the elimination round of the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitation Conference on Sunday, December 1, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. 

The King Crunchers tied with their archrivals, the Cignal HD Spikers, atop the leaderboard with 8-1 win loss records, but wound up with the superior points ratio.

Nico Almendras had his greatest game to date in a Criss Cross jersey, registering a game-high 19 points built on 15 attacks, three aces, and one block. The King Crushers ended the elimination round on a scorching six-game winning streak thanks to his outstanding performance.

"This win is important to us because we will be competing in the semis so maybe what we played today, we will be able to watch it and,  of course, learn from it as well," said Almendras.

Criss Cross took advantage of Savouge’s four consecutive reception errors, trailing by a point late in the third set. Almendras then fired two aces to put the Crunchers ahead 22-19.

Louis Gamban and Deanne De Pedro's conversions gave Savouge a short boost. But Criss Cross maintained control thanks to Jude Garcia’s back-row attack and Giles Torres’ quick strike.

Following a miscommunication on Savouge’s end, Francis Saura launched a pivotal attack that brought Criss Cross to a match point. Gian Glorioso then launched a swift attack to seal the victory.

"What we did in training came out in this game. Whatever adjustments the coaches saw, maybe that's what we will work on," added Almendras, a former National University standout.

Glorioso was consistent with his play, chipping in 10 markers together with three blocks, while Garcia had a strong all-around effort, scoring 10 points along with 10 excellent receptions, and four excellent digs.

Ish Polvorosa led their attack with 19 excellent sets, while Rex Intal added eight markers, further displaying the depth of Criss Cross as they moved on to the next stage of the competition.

On the other hand, The Spin Doctors, who are also headed to the semifinals, concluded their campaign with a 6-3 record.

Norwel Sanama led the scoring for the Criss Cross with team-best 18 markers built on 15 attacks, two blocks, and one ace in the losing cause.