Undefeated Criss Cross asserted its dominance over archrival Cignal in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference, rallying from a set down to claim a 19-25, 25-14, 25-20, 25-19 victory on Friday at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
The impressive four-set comeback win extended the King Crunchers’ unbeaten run to eight games, with only the Savouge Spin Doctors and the PGJC Navy Sealions remaining in their elimination-round campaign. The tournament is organized by Sports Vision and supported by Arena Plus and Mikasa.
“Nag-hard work lang talaga ‘yung team na kahit naunahan kami ng set, kinalimutan na namin ‘yung set na ‘yun. Kasi sinabi ko sa kanila, second set na, mag-focus na lang tayo dito,” said Criss Cross’ Jaron Requinton, who delivered 18 points on 18 attacks.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Criss Cross previously dominated Cignal in their first-round encounter, sweeping in straight sets, 25-23, 25-21, 25-17.
Gian Glorioso, Jaron Requinton, Nico Almendras, and Kim Malabunga capitalized on Criss Cross’ 2-1 set lead by launching a blistering 15-8 run to open the fourth frame, sealing the victory in one hour and 51 minutes.
Back-to-back MVP Jude Garcia matched Requinton’s 18 points while contributing 16 excellent receptions. Almendras added 14 points and seven digs to bolster the King Crunchers’ attack.
Middle blockers Glorioso and Malabunga also delivered solid performances with 13 and 10 points, respectively. Libero Manuel Sumanguid stood tall on defense, registering 16 excellent receptions and 13 excellent digs.
Setter Ish Polvorosa orchestrated the offense masterfully, tallying 28 excellent sets.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
Meanwhile, Cignal dropped to a 6-2 record. The three-peat-seeking defending champions aim to bounce back against PGJC-Navy on Sunday at the Ynares Sports Arena.
Steven Rotter led the HD Spikers with 17 points on 15 spikes, one block, and one ace. JP Bugaoan added 14 points, including three blocks.
Jau Umandal returned to action after missing two games due to a hyperextended knee, contributing nine points in three sets. However, he was pulled out early in the fourth set after requiring medical attention for his knee and did not return.
Wendel Miguel saw himself limited to just one point in this encounter, after previously leading Cignal with 15 points in their first match against Criss Cross.
