Cignal faces Criss Cross in a Sunday clash that promises nothing but thrill as the only undefeated teams in the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference collide at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The highly anticipated match, set at 6 p.m., guarantees not just to be a battle for the top spot but also a display of sheer determination as both teams aim to stretch their winning streak to five and boost their confidence moving forward.
“Kung excited ang mga fans, kung excited ang volleyball community, mas excited kami,” said Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor, emphasizing the high stakes and the charged atmosphere expected during the match. “Higit sa lahat mas excited yung management na nagpe-prepare rin for this game.”
Cignal, bolstered by Bryan Bagunas’ recent return from a successful campaign in the Top Volleyball League in Taiwan, is looking sharper than ever. Along with reigning MVP Jau Umandal, he is expected to lead the HD Spikers’ charge against the equally formidable Criss Cross side.
The King Crunchers also boast of a talented roster made up of Jude Garcia, Kim Malabunga, Michael Bagalay, Ysay Marasigan, Rex Intal, Ish Polvorosa, and other notable players who are eager to prove their mettle.
“Kahit papaano may mga emosyon na mata-touch. So I’m very much excited, pero hindi pwedeng puro excitement lang, dapat paghandaan talaga namin,” added Clamor, aware of the emotional weight the match carries, especially against former Cignal players now with Criss Cross.
The King Crunchers’ strategy might pivot on the participation of many-time league MVP Marck Espejo, who has just returned from a triumphant stint with the Incheon Air Jumbos in the Korean league. His availability, however, remains uncertain, adding an element of suspense to the team’s preparation.
Meanwhile, Savouge Aesthetics mixes it up with Philippine Air Force at 2 p.m. while PGJC-Navy squares off with VNS-Nasty at 4 p.m.
The Sealions (4-1) will once again lean on Joeven Dela Vega and Greg Dolor as they try to stretch their own run to five after an opening game setback against the struggling Wewe Medina-led Griffins (1-3).
Sherwin Caritativo and the Spin Doctors (1-3), on the other hand, look to revive their semifinal hopes in the tournament organized by Sports Vision against Bryan Jaleco and the Airmen (1-4).
