Powered by their two imports, the Cignal HD Spikers calmed the Foton Tornadoes and eked out a five-set win, 25-22, 25-23, 26-28, 20-25, 15-11, in the 2018 Chooks to Go-Philippine Superliga Grand Prix at the Mandaluyong Sports Complex.
Serbian opposite hitter Sonja Milanovic poured in a season-high 35 points while American Jeane Horton added 28 markers to lead the HD Spikers. The pair provided 57 percent of Cignal’s offense with their local teammates combining for just 14 points.
The HD Spikers also received a boost from Foton’s 34 errors, most of which came in the first two sets.
“It was a great win for us. Of course, seeing that we almost blew a two-set lead was not ideal. But, our team showed our characted in the fifth set,” said Cignal head coach Edgar Barroga.
“There’s still a lot we need to work on as the season goes along. But, these types of wins can really bring us together,” the first-year tactician added.
The HD Spikers broke away in the fifth set, scoring four straight to establish a 9-6 advantage. From there Horton and Milanovic conspired to keep Cignal ahead for good.
The HD Spikers improved their record to 2-1. They face the Sta. Lucia Lady Realtors (1-1) on March 8 at the FilOil Flying V Centre.
Brooke Kranda led Foton with 29 points while Elizabeth Wendel managed 23 markers.
The Tornadoes (1-1) take on the Cocolife Asset Managers (1-2) on Saturday.
