PVL: Creamline asserts mastery over Capital1 in massive sweep

By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña

The Creamline Cool Smashers scored their first sweeping win in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference after dismantling the Capital1 Solar Spikers, 25-18, 26-24, 25-20, on Feb. 21, 2026, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

After back-to-back four-set wins over ZUS Coffee and Choco Mucho, the Cool Smashers entered the matchup with sheer focus against Capital1, forcing a three-way tie for second place with Cignal and Nxled.

An entertaining back-and-forth in the second set highlighted the anticipated clash after the Cool Smashers came back from an 18-23 deficit, bolstered by an impressive Creamline floor coverage and timely offensive hits from Jema Galanza.

From a five-point hole, Creamline’s back-to-back defensive holds helped them inch closer, capped off by two consecutive cross-court spikes from Galanza that deadlocked the thrilling second set at 23-all.

However, Capital1 franchise player Bella Belen stepped up in the clutch, hammering a back-row attack that put the Solar Spikers at set point, 23-24. Playing spoiler for Creamline was Galanza, who again delivered off a Jen Nierva setup for the second tie of the game.

Unfortunately, the Solar Spikers failed to register a point in the most crucial stretch and could only watch Bernadeth Pons seal the 2-0 lead, with a little help from a Leila Cruz error.

It was then all Creamline in the third and final set as the winningest PVL franchise ran down Capital1 with a methodical approach, relying on their efficient cross-court sets while finishing the game with a consistent defensive outing.

Joining Galanza during Creamline’s impressive third-set performance was Tots Carlos, who helped the Cool Smashers establish a commanding seven-point cushion inside the remaining six game possessions.

Carlos top-scored the Cool Smashers with 15 points built from 14 successful attacks, alongside 10 excellent digs, six excellent receptions and a service ace.

Meanwhile, the 1-2 punch of Pons and Galanza contributed 14 and 13 markers, respectively, while veteran middle blocker Jeanette Panaga added eight points.

On the other hand, the Solar Spikers received another explosive performance from Belen, who led all scorers with 26 points on 24 attacks, but her personal heroics weren’t enough to deal with Creamline’s balanced, well-oiled artillery.

The Cool Smashers will aim to maintain their winning streak on March 3, 2026, against the rolling Galeries Tower Highrisers, while Capital1 looks to arrest its skid on Feb. 26, 2026, against the Farm Fresh Foxies.