Creamline's Bea de Leon, Bernadeth Pons, and Lorie Bernardo. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA — Creamline’s Bernadeth Pons is already focused on bouncing back after they fell short of a semifinals berth against Cignal.
The Cool Smashers absorbed a tough five-set loss to the Super Spikers, 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, in the qualifying round of the 2026 PVL All-Filipino Conference on March 26 at the Araneta Coliseum.
READ: PVL: Cignal books semis ticket after thrilling win vs Creamline
Despite the setback, Pons vowed to regroup as they fight to stay alive in the tournament.
"Sobrang importante din kasi talaga 'yung game sa amin para makuha namin 'yung spot sa semis. Pero hindi talaga binibigay nang madali. So another challenge din ito para sa team. Mas tatrabahuhin pa namin 'yung susunod na games," Pons said.
The Far Eastern University product returned with a strong showing, tallying 20 points in her first game back after missing time due to injury.
However, Pons admitted she is still not at full strength and will continue focusing on her recovery.
READ: PVL: Creamline secures qualifying round spot after crucial, grueling win vs Cignal
"Actually, to be honest, hindi pa talaga," she said when asked about her condition. "Hindi rin ako masyadong nakakasabay sa ball training nung mga nakaraan kasi focus talaga ako sa rehab. Ngayon lang din ako nakabalik."
"So kailangan ko pa ibalik 'yung sarili ko sa intensity ng game. May time pa naman para maka-recover, magtrabaho sa training, at maibalik 'yung endurance sa paglalaro," she added.
Creamline now faces a do-or-die scenario, needing to get past either Akari or sister team Choco Mucho to keep its semifinals hopes alive.