Criss Cross celebrates against Savouge in the semifinals of the 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference, December 11, 2024 at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan. PVL Media

MANILA -- Criss Cross secured its place in the finals of the 2024 Spikers' Turf Invitational Conference after turning back Savouge in four sets, Wednesday at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan.

The King Crunchers showed their poise in a tight third set win and dominated the fourth in a 25-22, 22-25, 26-24, 25-13 triumph. 

They improved to 3-0 in the semifinals, sealing their place in the gold medal match.

The Spin Doctors had clawed back from a 20-23 deficit in the third set to force an extension behind Shawie Caritativo's heroic efforts. But the King Crunchers were the better team down the stretch, with Gian Glorioso and Jude Garcia putting up the clutch hits.

Criss Cross went on to open the fourth set on a blistering 11-4 run and never relinquished control.

It was a tough loss for the Spin Doctors, who needed to win in three or four sets to remain in contention in the event of a three-way tie with Cignal and Criss Cross.

Coach Sydney Calderon urged the Spin Doctors to stay motivated and stick to their goal during a huddle, but the King Crunchers proved relentless. Sustained attacks and solid blocking widened their lead, with Nico Almendras delivering a crucial long ball attack to put Criss Cross at match point, 24-13.

Although a rare error briefly delayed their triumph, Ysay Marasigan sealed the victory with a decisive hit to secure their finals berth.

"Everything we worked for over the past few months has led us here. We're back in the finals, and we'll give it our best shot," said Marasigan, who had 13 points on 10 kills. "All the work we've put in during training showed today. Everyone who came in delivered."

Jude Garcia top-scored once again for Criss Cross with 20 points, while Almendras shone on both ends with 13 points, 19 excellent receptions, and five digs. 

Glorioso scored six of his 12 points on blocks for the King Crunchers, who benefited from their opponents' 32 errors. 

Caritativo led the Spin Doctors' effort with 25 points on 21 attacks, three blocks, and a service ace along with 16 excellent receptions.