In a highly anticipated showdown, Marck Espejo's triumphant return to Philippine volleyball met an unexpected roadblock as Criss Cross faltered against his former team, Cignal, in a thrilling Sunday night clash.
Despite holding a commanding 2-1 advantage over the HD Spikers, the King Crunchers stumbled in a five-set nail-biter, succumbing to a 20-25, 25-15, 23-25, 25-23, 15-12 defeat, marking their first setback following an impressive four-game winning streak at the onset of the tournament.
Espejo found himself at a loss for words after facing the squad he once led to three Spikers' Turf championships from 2019 to 2023.
"Hindi ko ma-explain kasi kahit naman former team ko 'yun, kapag nasa loob ako ng court, kalaban ko talaga sila," expressed the five-time Spikers' Turf MVP, reflecting on the intensity of the competition.
Looking ahead, Espejo expressed optimism for future encounters with Cignal, eagerly anticipating the opportunity to showcase Criss Cross's best performance.
"I hope na sa mga next matches namin na makakalaban namin 'yung Cignal, mailabas namin 'yung best namin and excited ako ulit na maglaro sa Pilipinas," he remarked.
Despite the disappointment of the loss, Espejo, fresh from his championship stint with the Incheon Korean Air Jumbos in the Korean V-League, recognized the birth of a burgeoning rivalry in Philippine men's volleyball between defending champions Cignal and the upstart Criss Cross.
"So ayun, masaya ako na parang nagbuo ng bagong team 'yung Rebisco so parang na-push 'yung ibang teams na mag-invest at mag-perform pa lalo," he shared, highlighting the positive impact of Criss Cross's entry into the competition.
In a valiant effort, Espejo showcased his prowess on the court, delivering 19 points, including 15 attacks, three blocks, and one ace in the five-set thriller.
Despite the setback, his performance underscored his invaluable contribution to Criss Cross's campaign, bringing their standing to 4-1 in the tournament.
Expressing gratitude to the Rebisco management for their commitment to men's volleyball, Espejo emphasized the importance of continued investment in the sport to drive its growth.
"Super thankful ako sa Rebisco kasi sila 'yung unang nag-move para ipataas pa lalo 'yung men's volleyball," he acknowledged.
As the dust settles on this electrifying encounter, Espejo eagerly anticipates the future of the Spikers' Turf with Criss Cross at the forefront of the competition.
"Masaya kasi makakalaro na ulit ako sa Spikers' Turf with my local club," he shared.
