In a thrilling showdown against the VNS-Nasty squad, Cignal HD Spikers found themselves in a precarious position. But it was the resilience and readiness of one player that turned the tide in their favor – Jau Umandal.
Coach Dexter Clamor had opted to give his second six a chance to shine on the court. However, despite their efforts, the team found themselves trailing after three sets. With the pressure mounting, Clamor made the strategic decision to bring in his regular starters, led by the dynamic duo of Umandal and JP Bugaoan.
Bugaoan's clutch performance in the extended fourth set kept the HD Spikers alive, setting the stage for Umandal to seize the moment in the final frame. With precision and power, Umandal unleashed a relentless onslaught of attacks, propelling Cignal into a commanding lead and securing their seventh consecutive win of the tournament.
Coach Clamor commended Umandal for his exemplary mindset, emphasizing the importance of readiness for every player on the team. "Maganda yung mindset niya. Ganun naman talaga dapat eh, you must be ready all the time. Kahit sinong gagamitin, dapat ready," he remarked.
Reflecting on the intense match, Clamor acknowledged the team's slow start but praised their ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most. He stressed the significance of maintaining high intensity from the outset, especially as they head into the semifinals.
Umandal's standout performance in the decider showcased not only his individual skill but also the depth and determination of the entire Cignal roster. As the team looks ahead to the challenges that lie ahead, one thing remains clear – in the heat of competition, it's the players like Umandal who truly shine, ready to step up and seize victory for their team.
