Chery Tiggo and returning head coach Aaron Velez made quick work of Cignal, 27-25, 25-19, 25-22 for a winning debut in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, Tuesday night at the Philsports Arena.
Shaya Adorador finished with 16 points to go along with 15 excellent digs and five excellent receptions.
Team captain Mylene Paat added 15 markers on 13 attacks, an ace, and a block while EJ Laure chipped in 13 points laced with five receptions.
“First, all glory to God. Nakabalik kami, walang na-injured, masaya ako na the coaches, the players really worked hard in this match,” said Velez, who last coached the team during its historic championship run in the 2021 Open Conference.
“It’s really more about our composure and from the start yung preparation namin, sabi namin sa isa’t isa our teamwork will actually be our force. Our camaraderie, our communication should always be on point,” he added.
Chery Tiggo gutted out a 27-25 win in the extended first set before taking a 25-19 victory in the second frame to take a 2-0 lead over the HD Spikers.
In the third set, Cignal fought back late with Riri Meneses scoring two consecutive points that trimmed a 22-18 to just two points. However, a net touch on Rose Doria followed by a cross-court hit from Adorador pushed the Crossovers at match point.
Ces Molina and Doria saved two match points before Adorador put on the finishing kick.
Molina led the way for the HD Spikers with 16 points and nine receptions while Meneses had 11 points on six attacks, three blocks, and two aces.
Chery Tiggo will take on Army-Black Mamba on Saturday at 4:00 PM (Philsports Arena) while Cignal will return on Thursday against defending champion Creamline also at 4:00 PM (Filoil EcoOil Arena).
