ERICA Staunton had her first experience of the Creamline-Choco Mucho sister team rivalry in Premier Volleyball League.

Surrounded by 9,429 spectators at the Mall of Asia Arena, the American import relished her experience of playing with a huge crowd.

"Honestly, hands down, the most fun volleyball environment I have ever been part of. I knew it coming into the game that there were going to be a lot of fans, and a lot of eyes watching," Staunton said.

"I kind of just wanted to focus on enjoying it because you never know if I'm ever going to play in a crowd like that again. Just really enjoying the moment."

Knowing that Creamline is one of the popular volleyball squads in the Philippines, the 24-year-old spiker was amazed to see the attendance of its supporters.

But aside from the pressure contributed by a bigger crowd, the University of Georgia graduate kept herself collected.

Creamline overcame a third-set scare from the Flying Titans after prevailing in five deuces to take a 25-16, 25-19, 31-29 victory in the second round of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) 2024 Reinforced Conference.

With the thundering cheer of the teams' supporters, Staunton managed to be composed as she led her squad down the stretch.

"I had a coach back then, and I hope I got it right ... he said that play for the two not for the 30,000. Basically, all it meant is that you're going to play the same like you're playing with you're two best friends, the same way you play with a huge crowd. So this really helps me to calm my nerves a little bit."

The 6-foot-2 winger finished with 19 points on 17 attacks and two blocks.

Creamline entered the quarterfinals without key cogs Alyssa Valdez, Tots Carlos, and Jema Galanza.

The Cool Smashers now hold a 5-2 win-loss card, and will next face the eliminated ZUS Thunderbelles on August 22, at the FilOil EcoOil Centre.

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