Spikers’ Turf: Criss Cross overcomes Alpha Insurance, extends win streak to 3

MANILA — Defending champion Criss Cross maintained its perfect start in the 2026 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference after taking down Alpha Insurance in four sets, Sunday night at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

The King Crunchers shook off a letdown in the second round to take a 25-22, 21-25, 25-21, 25-19 result, in the process earning a share of the lead with their 3-0 record.

Criss Cross is tied with National University and ClearSkiiin at the top of the standings.

Five-time Most Valuable Player Jude Garcia led the way for the King Crunchers with 22 points on 21 attacks. Amil Pacinio added 16 points on 15 attacks and one ace, while Ariel Cacao provided a spark off the bench with 20 excellent sets to keep the offense clicking.

“It’s a total team effort pa rin po kasi kahit sinong ipasok sa loob ng court, nagco-contribute talaga so ginagawa nila ‘yung role ng bawat isa,” said Garcia after the win.

While Criss Cross held the advantage in attacks, 59-51, Alpha Insurance made its presence felt at the net with a 9-8 edge in blocks and a 6-1 advantage in service aces.

Despite the Protectors’ resistance, the King Crunchers remained composed and capitalized on 28 opponent errors to secure the victory.

Criss Cross will shoot for a fourth consecutive victory when it takes on NU on November 4 at 1 p.m. at the same venue.

Meanwhile, Alpha Insurance absorbed its second straight loss to fall into a four-way tie for fifth to eighth place alongside Savouge, 3B, and AEP-Cabstars. All four teams hold identical 1-2 records.

Axel Van Book led the Protectors with 21 points and 15 excellent receptions, while Reymark Betco contributed 14 points and Vince Himzon added 10.

Alpha Insurance will look to bounce back when it faces AEP-Cabstars on November 4 at 3 p.m.