In a clash of international champions, Bryan Bagunas emerged victorious over Marck Espejo as Cignal staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Criss Cross in a pulsating 20-25, 25-15, 23-25, 25-23, 15 12 battle before a big Sunday crowd at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Facing a setback when Bagunas briefly succumbed to cramps, allowing the King Crunchers to seize momentum, the HD Spikers found themselves trailing in sets, 1-2.
However, Bagunas, fresh from consecutive title runs in Taiwan, returned, and with Jau Umandal providing solid support, they orchestrated a stunning turnaround, forcing a decisive fifth set between the league’s two unbeaten teams.
Bagunas, displaying his prowess, outshone Espejo in the final set, delivering five crucial points to his tally of 27. His powerful attacks proved too much for the King Crunchers to handle, with three straight blasts finding their mark to put Cignal at match point.
Umandal sealed the victory with a thunderous blow following a Bagunas service fault, ending the highly-charged encounter of the country’s best and the brightest.
“Ako bilang bago sa team, gusto ko naman talagang makatulong sa team. Nangibabaw yung mentality ko na makatulong sa team,” said Bagunas.
Cignal dominated the early stages of the fifth, establishing a lead they maintained until the end, aided by Espejo’s three errors.
The win holds significant importance for Cignal, especially against a formidable opponent like Criss Cross, showcasing the team’s progress in the league organized by Sports Vision.
Bagunas also expressed his gratitude for the overwhelming support of the fans, noting the immense joy in seeing their unwavering backing.
Umandal finished with 20 points, 19 of which came from attacks, to help extend Cignal’s run to five while dealing Criss Cross its first defeat after four straight wins, resulting in a tie with the D’Navigators.
Wendel Miguel had 10 markers while JP Bugaoan and Mark Calado had eight and six points, respectively, in the hard-fought victory.
Next up for the HD Spikers are the D’Navigators on Wednesday, 6:00 p.m. at the Ynares Sports Arena.
Meanwhile, Jude Garcia led the King Crunchers with 20 points on 15 attacks and five blocks to go along with 21 excellent receptions while Espejo delivered 19 points on 15 attacks, three blocks, and one service ace.
Criss Cross will look to bounce back when they face the streaking PGJC-Navy on Friday, 4:00 p.m. also in Ynares
