Cignal bolstered its semifinal campaign in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference with a clinical 25-16, 25-17, 25-17 rout of an overmatched VNS side at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig on Friday.
Displaying their championship pedigree, the HD Spikers controlled the match from start to finish, extending their win streak to five games after a 1-1 start in the tournament.
The victory propelled Cignal to solo second in the standings, distancing themselves from arch rivals Criss Cross King Crunchers (5-1) and inching closer to clinching the second semis berth.
The DN Steel FEU Ultras secured the first slot earlier in the day with a straight-set triumph over the EcoOil La Salle Green Oilers.
Despite their dominant performance, the HD Spikers still need to win one of their remaining two preliminary matches to officially secure their place in the Final Four and avoid potential complications for the last semis spot.
Their remaining schedule includes a pivotal clash with the league-leading Ultras tomorrow (Sunday, Nov. 24) and a showdown against the Navy Sealions – another strong semis contender with a 4-3 record – on Nov. 29.
“Marami pa rin kaming unforced errors. Actually this game is not a rest day game for us but it’s really a load management one most especially for those first six na laging ginagamit. We trained yesterday (Thursday), we have a game today (Friday), and we will train tomorrow (Saturday) in preparation for Sunday’s game,” said Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor.
Nas Gwaza, Mark Calado and Alfred Valbuena anchored the HD Spikers’ charge in the third frame to break away from a tight 13-10 lead to a 19-10 advantage en route to completing their 85-minute romp.
Gwaza, a one-time Best Middle Blocker, led Cignal with 13 points on nine attacks, three blocks and an ace to clinch the game’s top honors, while Jau Umandal added 12 points in a two-set stint.
Steven Rotter contributed nine points in two sets while Mark Calado had eight points in the lopsided victory.
“This game was important to us. We needed to win to make sure we’ll make it to the Last 4,” said Gwaza, underscoring the team’s commitment to staying on course for another championship run.
The Griffins, after back-to-back wins to stay alive, slid down to 3-5. They will close their campaign against the Green Oilers on Dec. 1.
CJ Segui led VNS with 12 points and nine excellent receptions while Roderick Medino contributed nine points.
The Griffins, who fell to 3-5, have officially bowed out of semis contention after staying in the hunt following back-to-back wins.
Despite facing a younger and less experienced opponent, Cignal played with focus and intensity, ensuring the Griffins had no opportunity to mount a comeback.
