THERE is always that feeling by the Creamline Cool Smashers of something missing whenever Bernadeth Pons was away.
But now that Ms. Pons have returned from her national beach volley team duties, there is a sense of completeness emanating from the 11-time league champion.
It was evident in Creamline’s 27-29, 25-18, 25-19, 25-18 victory over Galeries Tower in their PVL All-Filipino Conference Siklab Series elimination round duel at the Filoil Centre last Saturday in the former league MVP’s first match in around half a year.
“It’s good to be back,” said a relieved Ms. Pons, who was a little rusty but still managed to contribute eight in just more than two sets on the floor.
Ms. Pons, however, vowed to be better as the tournament progresses.
Of course, Ms. Pons, whether or not she’s in full strength, is vital to the proud franchise’s bid of reclaiming its old place at the pedestal after stumbling to a disappointing fourth-place finish in the Invitational — its second worst finish after winding up 6th in last year’s Reinforced — more than a month ago.
“Malaking bagay kumpleto kami,” said Ms. Pons’ teammate Tots Carlos. “Wala kami reason para hindi mag-perform at inspired kami makabawi dahil hindi maganda exit namin last conference.” — Joey Villar