SANTA ROSA, LAGUNA — Cignal made a statement debut, demolishing Chichi DHTSI in straight sets, 25-16, 25-16, 25-14, in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference on Tuesday at the Santa Rosa Sports Complex here.
Prized recruits Owa Retamar and JM Ronquillo made their much-anticipated debut for the HD Spikers, taking over the starting starting setter and opposite spots, respectively, as the team bagged a swift one-hour, 11-minute win over the Titans.
The former National University star, who only played in the first two sets, tossed 10 excellent sets to go along with a point, while the ex-De La Salle University ace registered nine points on five attacks, two blocks, and two aces.
“Maybe for everyone, it’s a strong start. But for us coaches and players, of course, we’re not satisfied with our performance because we had a lot of unforced errors na hindi dapat nangyayari sa level namin,” said Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor.
(C) Spikers Turf Images
The HD Spikers’s tall and formidable frontline proved to be a problem for Chichi DHTSI, limiting them to just 18 attacks, while the reigning Open Conference champions fired 48 hits in 94 attempts.
Jau Umandal top scored for Cignal with 12 points, while Mark Calado had 10 markers on eight attacks and two kill blocks. Team captain JP Bugaoan tallied nine points.
Vince Lorenzo, meanwhile, manned the floor and collected 10 excellent digs to go along with nine excellent receptions.
The HD Spikers will head back to action on Friday against Savouge at 6:00 p.m. at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
On the other hand, the Titans dropped their third consecutive game to open the tournament, sliding to 0-3.
Matt Miguel led Chichi DHTSI with six points, while skipper Jonathan Sorio had five markers.
The Titans hope to bag their first win when they face off against PGJC Navy also on Friday at 4:00 p.m.
