Cignal dominated the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference round-robin semifinals opener, securing a convincing 25-22, 25-15, 25-21 win against PLDT on Thursday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
The HD Spikers improved their standing to 1-1 while pushing the High Speed Hitters down to 0-2 and on the brink of elimination. The win-loss standing against the other semifinalist from their pool in the preliminary round is carried over.
“I know medyo marami pa rin kami naging lapses pero good thing nakuha namin siya in three sets kahit papaano,” said Cignal head coach Shaq Delos Santos.
The High Speed Hitters appeared inspired at the start of the third frame, building an 11-6 lead. However, Ces Molina, Jovelyn Gonzaga, and Riri Meneses regained their scoring momentum, resulting in a 20-all deadlock.
Then, Molina and Roselyn Doria led the charge with four straight points, with Molina scoring from attacks and Doria playing active at the net defense for the match point, 24-20.
Molina threw away her spike in the ensuing play, but Rhea Dimaculangan returned the favor with an error of her own, securing the HD Spikers’ win in 99 minutes.
Molina and Gonzaga teamed up in Cignal’s 13-4 telling run in the second set, turning a slim 9-7 lead into a commanding 22-11 margin for a 2-0 set advantage.
Molina recorded 17 points on 16 attacks, while Gonzaga showcased an all-around performance with 12 points, 10 excellent receptions, and six digs.
Doria contributed with three blocks, two service aces, and five spikes for a total of 10 points, while Gel Cayuna provided steady play with 15 excellent sets and four points.
On the other hand, no High Speed Hitter reached double figures in points, with Fiola Ceballos being their highest scorer with eight points. Royse Tubino, Michelle Morente, and Mika Reyes all had seven points in the loss.
Both squads will return on Saturday, with Cignal facing Creamline, while PLDT aims to bounce back against F2 Logistics.
