While some expect Criss Cross and Cignal to take it easy in their matchup on Sunday ahead of their much-anticipated Finals trilogy in the Spikers’ Turf, others believe both teams will go all out for a psychological edge and momentum heading into the Open Conference championship.
With identical 2-0 records in the single round semifinals, the King Crunchers and the HD Spikers have already secured their places in the best-of-three Finals. However, their non-bearing clash at 6:30 p.m. at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum could still turn into an intense grudge match.
Criss Cross is eager to complete an elimination and semis sweep while further asserting its dominance over Cignal, a team it has defeated twice during its impressive 12-game winning streak. On the other hand, Cignal is determined not just to gain redemption but also to build the confidence and momentum it needs before the championship series.
Cignal has had the upper hand in recent history, having thwarted Criss Cross in both the Open and Invitational Finals last year. However, the King Crunchers have proven to be a different force this conference, bolstered by a reinforced roster while Cignal has struggled with injuries.
Adding intrigue to the matchup is the presence of Marck Espejo, a former Cignal standout now suiting up for Criss Cross. His reunion with his former team adds an extra layer of intensity, as Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor acknowledges the challenge ahead.
“Sunday is a non-bearing game, but we still need to show our best so that we enter the Finals with high confidence,” said Clamor, a five-time Spikers’ Turf champion coach.
“Of course, we’re preparing hard, and we’re excited to face Marck (Espejo) again,” added Clamor, who previously coached Espejo at Cignal from 2019 to 2023.
Leading Cignal’s charge will be Steven Rotter, Louie Ramirez and Wendel Miguel, who will attempt to break through against the formidable King Crunchers. Meanwhile, Criss Cross aims to maintain its psychological advantage with its explosive offensive trio of Espejo, reigning MVP Jude Garcia and Nico Almendras with the likes of Gian Glorioso, Kim Malabunga and Jaron Requinto ready to step up.
This match serves as a preview of what’s to come in the Finals, with both teams looking to make a statement before their much-awaited championship showdown.
In the battle for third, Savouge and VNS-Laticrete will clash at 4 p.m., offering a preview of their own series.
Mark Calado and Shawie Caritativo are expected to lead Savouge, while CJ Segui and KC Culabat will spearhead VNS-Laticrete’s charge.
