Jude Garcia of Criss Cross in action against DN Steel-FEU in the 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference, November 17, 2024 at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig. PVL MediaMANILA -- Criss Cross recovered from a shaky start to turn back DN-Steel FEU in four sets in the 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference, Sunday night at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.

The King Crunchers claimed a 22-25, 25-20, 25-20, 25-21 result, handing the Ultras their first loss of the tournament after six wins. 

Open Conference MVP Jude Garcia led the way anew for Criss Cross, tallying 19 points on 14 kills, four blocks and an ace on top of 16 excellent receptions. 

He acknowledged after the game that his familiarity with their opponents was a factor, as Garcia serves as an assistant coach of Far Eastern University.

"Nakatulong din na players ko sila, kumbaga lahat ng ginagawa nila alam ko rin eh. Nagtuturo ako, alam ko na rin 'yung galaw nila. Malaking factor din 'yun," said Garcia, an FEU alumnus.

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The King Crunchers now have a 5-1 win-loss record, tying them with the Cignal HD Spikers for second place and solidifying their push for a semifinals spot.

They had to overhaul a shaky start that saw them commit a maze of errors, then fend off the youthful Ultras who tried to send the match to an extension. Nico Almendras and Gian Glorioso combined for a pivotal 3-0 run that gave them a 20-15 advantage.

Veterans Garcia and Ysay Marasigan then put on the finishing touches on the win.

Almendras and Marasigan tallied 11 points each with the former National U star also finishing with 13 excellent receptions. Ish Polvorosa displayed great control of the King Crunchers’ offense, churning out 23 excellent sets.

Criss Cross will zero in on a semis slot when it plays also-ran Chichi DHTSI on Nov. 27 at 4 p.m.

Despite the loss, DN Steel FEU stayed on top with a 6-1 card with the Ultras bracing for another tough task against the Cignal HD Spikers on Sunday at 6 p.m.

Dryx Saavedra paced the Ultras with 15 points, while Mikko Espartero had 12 markers laced with six excellent digs. Doula Ndongala and Mendoza contributed 10 points apiece.