CIGNAL jammed back-to-back runner-up Choco Mucho in a 25-18, 25-21, 25-16 straight-sets masterclass in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at the Philsports Arena.
From free agency to starting for the HD Spikers straight away, Judith Abil dazzled in her new role as a libero with 15 digs and six receptions to her name.
READ: Abil's victorious PVL return gives hope to those who are left out
The back-to-back league runners-up were left shell-shocked in the absence of former PVL MVP Sisi Rondina as the MJ Perez-backed Cignal side showed no mercy.
“‘Yung transition (to libero), hindi madali pero sa tulong ng coaches and teammates, dumadali ‘yung trabaho. Kailangang i-embrace ‘yung position na binigay ng coaches sa akin at magtiwala sa sarili. ‘Wag mag-doubt talaga,” said Abil.
Already a champion in local shores back in 2017, Perez shone brightest in her Philippine volleyball comeback with a match-best 22 points on 19 attacks, two aces and one block.
“It’s very nice to be in a new team with new and young players. I feel happy because I can help them with my experience. Of course, I have good friends in the other teams, my former teammates, but it’s really nice to come to a team who appreciates my work,” Perez said.
“I know there’s more to come because this is just the beginning and we will keep working for it.”
Greek reinforcement Zoi Faki took the scoring load for the Flying Titans, but her 13-piece in three sets couldn’t quite cut it as the debuting Dindin Santigo-Manabat was held to just eight markers.
Birthday girl Deanna Wong pitched in eight excellent sets as a starter while back-to-back best libero Thang Ponce had all grounds covered on floor defense with a staggering 25 digs and 15 receptions.
However, such individual bright spots did not get the job done for Choco Mucho in the end.
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