Cignal completed its redemption after taking down rival Criss Cross in straight sets, 25-19, 25-19, 26-24, to clinch its first Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference championship on Sunday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Motivated by last year’s heartbreaking loss, the HD Spikers – this year’s Open Conference champions – finally finished the job, achieving their third Golden Double after falling short to National U-Sta. Elena in last year’s Invitational Final.
Despite playing without ace spiker Bryan Bagunas for the entire conference, Cignal relied on rookie Owa Retamar, the returning Louie Ramirez, and veteran Wendel Miguel to secure their eighth championship in the country’s premier men’s volleyball league.
The team also got valuable contributions off the bench from setter Cian Silang, Steven Rotter, and Martin Bugaoan.
“Sobrang nagpapasalamat ako sa mga second stringers na nag-step up like si Cian (Silang), si (Steven) Rotter, lahat. It’s really a collective effort ng team. Talagang pinaghandaan namin ‘to,” said Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor.
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After securing hard-fought victories in the first two sets, the HD Spikers found themselves trailing early in the third as the King Crunchers threatened to extend the knockout finale.
Jude Garcia spearheaded the resistance with crucial attacks, keeping Criss Cross within striking distance.
Garcia’s back-to-back hits gave Criss Cross a slim 22-21 lead, but Ramirez delivered a clutch off-the-block attack to tie the score at 22.
The two stars continued to trade blows, but a costly attack error by Gian Glorioso handed the HD Spikers a chance to clinch the title at 24-23.
Refusing to back down, the reigning Open Conference MVP unleashed a powerful pipe attack to keep Criss Cross alive. However, Martin Bugaoan responded with a quick hit to bring Cignal back to match point.
The King Crunchers’ final attempt fell short as Garcia’s backrow attack sailed wide, sealing the championship for the HD Spikers, 26-24.
Ramirez delivered a game-high 24 points, highlighted by an efficient 21-of-38 attacking clip, along with three blocks and 12 excellent receptions, earning him the Finals MVP award.
“Grabe ‘yung pinagdaanan namin ngayong game. Nilabas ko lang ‘yung sinasabi ng mga teammates ko na mag-all out ako kaya ayun, nalabas ko naman,” said Ramirez.
Miguel also stepped up in a big way, contributing 15 points built on 11 attacks, three blocks, and one ace, complemented by eight excellent receptions.
His performance helped offset the absence of team captain and middle blocker JP Bugaoan, who sustained an injury in the third frame.
On the other hand, the King Crunchers’ championship aspirations crumbled for the second consecutive conference, as they fell short once again against Cignal.
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Jude Garcia, the conference MVP led Criss Cross with 18 points and added eight excellent receptions, emerging as the team’s lone double-digit scorer.
Ysay Marasigan contributed nine points in the loss, while Nico Almendras and Gian Glorioso chipped in seven points apiece.
Other awardees include Nico Almendras (Criss Cross) and Shawie Caritativo (Savouge Spin Doctors), both named Best Outside Spikers.
Gian Glorioso (Criss Cross) and Giles Torres (Savouge Spin Doctors) were recognized as the Best Middle Blockers, while Dryx Saavedra (Far Eastern University-DN Steel) claimed the Best Opposite Spiker award.
Vince Lorenzo (Cignal) took home the Best Libero award, and Ish Polvorosa (Criss Cross) was named the Best Setter for the second time in his career.
