Jau Umandal and the Cignal HD Spikers are leaving no stone unturned as they prepare for a shot at their maiden Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference championship.
With lessons from a bitter past still fresh in their minds, the team is determined to turn the tide and etch their name in history.
Coming off a frustrating four-set loss to Criss Cross last Sunday, the HD Spikers bounced back with authority, demolishing Japanese guest team Kondohgumi Hyogo in straight sets, 25-11, 25-8, 25-18, during the round-robin semifinals. The emphatic victory not only secured their spot in the Finals but also set the stage for a rematch against their newfound rivals, Criss Cross.
For Cignal, the road to redemption is personal.
Last season, they were poised to claim the championship after leading NU-Sta. Elena two sets to one in the Invitational Conference finale. However, the title slipped through their fingers as their opponents staged a stunning comeback, taking the final two sets and dashing Cignal’s championship dreams.
This time, Umandal and the team are resolute that history will not repeat itself. Reflecting on last year’s heartbreak, Umandal shared their collective mindset: “Mindset namin ayaw na namin maulit 'yung nangyari sa'min na end of the year, end of the season natalo kami,” he said after Cignal’s dominant win over Hyogo. “Ngayon, lesson na 'yun so i-apply namin 'yung mga dapat i-apply.”
The former league MVP has faced his own share of challenges this season. Once the top scoring option for the HD Spikers, Umandal found himself pushed to the sidelines with the return of Louie Ramirez and the emergence of rookie sensation JM Ronquillo. Yet, when called upon, Umandal reminded everyone of his value. His 16-point performance against Hyogo, highlighted by powerful spikes and timely blocks, was a statement of readiness for the Final.
If given the opportunity to play a significant role in the championship match, Umandal is determined to deliver. “Ibibigay na namin 'yung best namin kasi one game lang siya eh. Unang makatatlong sets, siya 'yung mananalo so all out na talaga sa paparating na laban,” he vowed.
