CIGNAL once again showcased its supremacy in men’s volleyball, solidifying its position as the undisputed powerhouse of the sport.
In a thrilling match witnessed by an enthusiastic crowd at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum on Friday, the HD Spikers secured another Spikers’ Turf Open Conference title with a 25-23, 27-25, 25-21 victory over Criss Cross.
Their triumph left no question about their dominance in the sport.
Despite Criss Cross’ commendable performance, Cignal demonstrated unwavering determination and unparalleled skill, maintaining control of the game from start to finish.
READ: Teammates or rivals, Bagunas and Espejo share vision of elevating men's game
Guided by the dynamic duo of Finals MVP Bryan Bagunas and 1st Best Outside Hitter Jau Umandal, and propelled by stellar performances from Wendel Miguel, JP Bugaoan, and Nastin Gwaza, the HD Spikers showcased a masterclass in power, teamwork, and tenacity.
Their victory was particularly remarkable given the Umandal's injury in the third set.
Despite the adversity of witnessing their teammate leave the court on a stretcher with the score tied at 17, Cignal came together as a unit, mounting a decisive 8-4 closing run to secure the set, the match, and the championship with a resounding 2-0 series sweep.
Their fiery finish was punctuated by a couple of clutch kill blocks, with Bagunas appropriately sealing the victory with a stinging backrow hit.
Reflecting on their triumph, Bagunas expressed his joy, especially as it marked his debut year with Cignal after his successful stint with the Taiwanese club Win Streak, where he secured consecutive league titles.
“Napakasaya kasi unang year ko pa lang sa Cignal, nag-champion na,” said Bagunas, who was named Finals MVP after contributing 26 points and 12 receptions in the first game, and 22 points including five aces and eight receptions in the clincher.
Raising men's volleyball's profile
He also acknowledged the growing popularity of men's volleyball in the country and encouraged fans to continue supporting the sport and the league.
“Nakita din namin na dumadami na ang fans ng men’s volleyball. Manood lagi kayo at sana tuloy-tuloy ang suporta niyo,” Bagunas told the fans.
The defining moment, however, occurred in the second set when Cignal mounted a stunning comeback from a 17-20 deficit. With Bagunas and Miguel leading the charge, supported by errors from Criss Cross, the HD Spikers leveled the score at 21, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish filled with adrenaline-pumping exchanges and challenges.
Despite Criss Cross' resilient stand, Cignal's unwavering spirit prevailed. Umandal's precision strikes and Bagunas' towering presence secured a hard-fought 24-23 lead for Cignal. Despite the King Crunchers' valiant efforts to stave off defeat, Cignal's determination ultimately clinched the set and a commanding 2-0 lead in the match that remained closely contested throughout.
The third set followed a similar narrative, with Criss Cross surging early only to be met by Cignal's trademark comebacks.
Umandal had a spectacular game, contributing 18 points with an impressive 16-of-23 in attacks, alongside a block and a service ace, before the unfortunate incident where he was hit by an inadvertent elbow and subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital in Pasay for further treatment.
Bugaoan also made significant contributions with 11 points, including three blocks, for Cignal.
With this victory, Cignal secured its second consecutive Open crown and seventh overall, further solidifying its reputation as the premier volleyball powerhouse in the country.
Marck Espejo led the silver medalists, King Crunchers, with 17 points, 11 receptions, and three digs.
Conference MVP Jude Garcia added 13 points, while Kim Malabunga contributed 11 in the losing effort.
In the battle for third place, PJGC-Navy secured the bronze medal despite a four-set loss to the D'Navigators earlier. Despite both teams trading four-set victories, the Sealions emerged victorious based on a points ratio tiebreaker.
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