The new-look HD Spikers look good in their PNVF opener.
The Cignal HD Spikers’ hunt for their second PNVF Champions League title is off to a strong start after powering past the St. Benilde Blazers in straight sets, 25-19, 25-21, 25-20, at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum Sunday.
The HD Spikers’ hot starts throughout the sets proved to be the difference-maker in defeating the young Blazers squad.
It was only in the third set that St. Benilde was able to keep in step with Cignal, even leading 16-14. However, Jao Umandal and the rest of the HD Spikers proved to be too much down the stretch, ensuring that they kept their lead until the end.
Cignal’s first game in the PNVF marked the debut of their new signings during the offseason, which included veteran Madz Gampong, libero Vince Lorenzo, middle blockers Ron Rosales, Nas Gwaza, and Giles Torres, and setter Kris Silang.
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Umandal led the way for the HD Spikers with 18 points built on 16 attacks and two blocks.
Meanwhile, the Savouge Spin Doctors also opened their PNVF campaign on a positive note after taking down the PGJC Philippine Navy in four sets, 25-21, 15-25, 25-22, 25-22.
After faltering in the second set, the Spin Doctors regained their composure to grab the next two sets from the Navy and secure their first victory in the tournament.
Savouge’s Jhun Lorenz Señoron starred in the match as he finished with 16 points which included several timely attacks to give the Spin Doctors the momentum to secure the win.
And in the third and final game of the opening day, the D' Navigators Iloilo dominated the VNS Asereht Griffins in straight sets, 25-20, 25-23, 25-20.
It was all D' Navigators from the get-go as they managed to build a lead that they would sustain en route to the set victories and later on the game.
John Benedict San Andres powered Iloilo with 17 points built on 16 attacks and one ace.