King Crunchers One Win Away from Back-to-Back Titles After Game 1 Victory Over Spin Doctors

Criss Cross moved within a win of securing back-to-back titles, defeating Savouge in four sets, 25-20, 26-28, 25-18, 25-20, in Game 1 of the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Finals on Wednesday at the Filoil Centre.

Jude Garcia led the King Crunchers with an outstanding 26-point performance, including 23 attacks and three kill blocks, showcasing the skill and dominance that earned him four MVP awards.

Adrian Villados orchestrated the offense, dishing out 29 excellent sets along with two points, keeping Criss Cross’ attack in rhythm throughout the match.

With starting outside hitter Alche Gupiteo sidelined due to a minor right shoulder injury, Jaron Requinton and Noel Kampton stepped up. Requinton, filling in for Gupiteo, was named Player of the Game after scoring 18 points, including 13 attacks, two aces, and one block, along with eight excellent digs. Kampton contributed a double-double with 12 points and 18 excellent receptions, helping the King Crunchers push closer to their first Open Conference championship.

“I’m really happy with what the team did today. It was truly a team effort, even the players on the bench supported us on the court,” said Requinton. “I’m also super happy with how we performed and the chemistry we showed. It reflected the hard work we’ve put in over the last two days.”

The King Crunchers took control of the match in the fourth set, especially after the second technical timeout. Garcia and Lloyd Josafat combined for back-to-back emphatic blocks on Louie Ramirez and JP Bugaoan, sparking a 16-10 run that sealed the win and prevented the Spin Doctors from mounting a comeback.

Criss Cross also dominated at the net with their signature blocking, registering 16 kill blocks, and capitalized on 26 errors from Savouge to maintain a firm hold on the match.

The King Crunchers will aim to clinch their first Open Conference title in Game 2 on Friday at 5 p.m. at the same venue.

For Savouge, Mark Calado was the standout player, contributing 23 points from 22 attacks and one kill block. Bugaoan added 10 points, including seven attacks and three blocks, while Giles Torres and Louie Ramirez chipped in with seven points each. Shawie Caritativo was held to just five points in the loss.