Cignal had no problems in the first two sets before escaping from Foton in the third, winning 25-10, 25-16, 25-22, for a bounce-back victory in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Tuesday.
Ces Molina and Jovelyn Gonzaga outspiked the entire Tornadoes squad with 15 and 13 attacks, respectively, while Foton only managed 26 attacks as a team.
Molina finished with 16 points and 15 excellent digs, while Gonzaga was just behind her with 14 points, including a block.
The HD Spikers joined Petro Gazz at 2-1 in Pool B. The Tornadoes fell to 0-3, at the bottom alongside Farm Fresh – both a loss away from elimination.
“Syempre very thankful kami kay Lord kasi ginuide niya kami sa buong game and yung opportunity na nakapag-training at nakapag-prepare after namin matalo sa last game, so good sign na nakarecover kami at naipanalo namin yung game,” said Cignal head coach Shaq Delos Santos.
After two blowout sets, Foton regained its momentum in the third set, keeping pace with the HD Spikers.
However, Vanie Gandler and Riri Meneses came through in the clutch with back-to-back points to push Cignal to victory in one hour and 28 minutes.
Middle blockers Roselyn Doria and Meneses contributed 10 and eight points, respectively, while Gel Cayuna made 22 excellent sets with three points from two service aces.
Shaya Adorador led the Tornadoes with 13 points, eight excellent receptions, and six digs, but lacked reinforcement. Mary Rhose Dapol was the next-highest scorer with six points.
Both teams will face the Foxies in their next matches. Cignal will meet them on Thursday at 6:30 PM. On the other hand, Foton will have its turn on Saturday at 9:30 AM.
