Akari finally breaks through, stuns Creamline in five-set thriller 

Akari Chargers broke history and expectations all in one night — not just by claiming a landmark victory over Creamline, but by signaling that this is a new season, a new mindset, and a chance for reinvention.

Playing with something to prove, the Chargers didn’t hesitate. They upset the Cool Smashers, 23-25, 25-23, 30-28, 23-25, 15-12, in a grueling five-set duel at Dasmariñas Arena — their first win ever in 10 meetings with Creamline, and one made sweeter by its timing.

American import Annie Mitchem, held out of the team’s previous “unofficial” opener due to lingering ITC issues, wasted no time making her presence felt. She erupted for 33 points and added 14 excellent receptions, transforming Akari’s offense and morale from the baseline up. 

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THE ‘1’ IN 9-1

Akari finally has its first franchise win over Creamline after three long years.#PVL2025 #PVLReinforced @spinph pic.twitter.com/Z1Ba6tkCJP

— John Mark Garcia (@johnmarkdg_) October 11, 2025

But this wasn’t a one-woman show. Soyud, Fifi Sharma, and Ced Domingo all stepped up, contributing 14, 13, and 12 markers, respectively, while Mars Alba and captain Justine Jazareno kept the offense steady with 21 and 15 excellent sets.

After edging out the third set in momentum-boosting fashion, Akari almost folded. The Cool Smashers struck back through Tots Carlos, Jeanette Panaga, and Michele Gumabao, forcing a fifth set and seizing a 9-7 lead in the decider.

But Akari’s resolve was tested — and passed — when Mitchem answered back with sharp down-the-line hits and Fifi unleashed a brutal quick attack. A 4-0 run turned the tide. A service error and attack mistakes from Creamline sealed the deal. Mitchem delivered the final blow — an off-the-block slam — after 3 hours and 16 minutes of tension and fight.

Coach Tina Salak captured the moment succinctly, “I’m very happy sa result namin… team effort, especially ‘yung coaches pagdating sa decision making namin. On point lahat nung nangyari.”

Still, the match was more than just a historic win — it was proof Akari can withstand pressure, bounce back from adversity, and emerge from underdog status.

Their next hurdle comes Tuesday versus Chery Tiggo at the Smart Araneta Coliseum. Creamline, meanwhile, will aim to respond when they face Petro Gazz.

In the end, opening-day voided or not, Akari made certain that tonight’s chapter belongs to them.

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