Kim Malabunga of Criss Cross towers over Alpha Insurance in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Open Conference, March 9, 2025 at the Ynares Sports Arena. PVL Media
MANILA -- Criss Cross made sure to take care of business against a depleted Alpha Insurance side on Sunday to claim its sixth consecutive victory in the 2025 Spikers' Turf Open Conference at the Ynares Sports Arena.
The King Crunchers opened the second round of the tournament by rolling to a 25-10, 25-12, 25-11 sweep of the Protectors.
It took Criss Cross just 54 minutes to complete the win against an Alpha Insurance side missing their top scorers in Vincent Nadera, Edward Camposano and JJ Javelona. For the King Crunchers, it was a fitting follow-up to their sweep of defending champion Cignal HD to close the first round.
READ: Criss Cross overwhelms Cignal to claim solo lead
Jude Garcia again starred for Criss Cross with 13 points on seven kills, five blocks and an ace to go along with eight excellent receptions. Jaron Requinton added 12 points on an efficient 10-of-13 hitting clip.
Chu Njigha and Gian Glorioso further bolstered Criss Cross' net defense, chipping in seven points apiece.
"We're so happy that we won our first game of the second round. I'm also glad that all my teammates were able to play on the court, and everyone got a chance to contribute. That made me really happy," said Requinton in Filipino.
"But we can't afford to be complacent despite our 6-0 record because now, in the second round, our opponents know us better. There's always a chance they could bounce back," he added.
Criss Cross had a massive 43-18 lead in kills, with their offense ably orchestrated by Ish Polvorosa (12 excellent receptions). Manuel Sumanguid had seven excellent receptions and six excellent digs.
Alpha Insurance, which stunned PGJC-Navy in its previous outing, fell to its fifth loss in six games.
Fielding a depleted roster, the Protectors leaned on Francis Casas, who scored four points, while Reymond Sabanal and Kernel Ipulan managed three points each.