MANILA – Cignal HD Spikers secured their place in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference semifinals after a hard-fought victory over Capital1 on Saturday (23 Aug 2024) night at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
The intense match ended with Cignal prevailing 25-19, 36-34, 16-25, 22-25, 15-12, earning them the first semifinal berth.
Import MJ Perez led the charge with an impressive 34-point performance, including seven blocks. She was instrumental in the final moments, scoring two of Cignal’s last four points. Jacqueline Acuña also contributed a crucial block against Capital1’s Marina Tushova, sealing the win for Cignal.
“We were able to overcome our struggles, and that’s the most important thing. I’m so thankful that we won,” said Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos.
Marivic Velanie Meneses, who delivered 21 points, including seven blocks, was named the Best Player of the match. She played a key role in Cignal’s success, particularly with her attack that gave them a 13-10 lead in the fifth set. “We didn’t abandon what we worked hard for. We gave our best,” Meneses commented after the game.
Team captain Frances Xinia Molina added 16 points and 14 receptions, while Acuña chipped in with eight points. Maria Angelica Cayuna contributed seven points and 21 excellent sets, while Judith Abil and Toni Rose Basas combined for 29 digs.
Despite the loss, Capital1’s Marina Tushova set a record with 50 points, showcasing her dominance with 47 kills, two blocks, and an ace. Teammate Jorelle Singh added 12 points, with Maria Lourdes Clemente and Iris Janelle Tolenada contributing seven points each.
Cignal now advances to the semifinals, riding the momentum of their fourth consecutive victory in the tournament.
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