Cignal’s defense and grit proved too much for Creamline as the HD Spikers carved out a 25-22, 25-18, 28-26 stunner in their PVL On Tour 2025 clash Tuesday, July 1, night at the FilOil EcoOil Centre. In their first win against the Cool Smashers since 2022, Cignal stood tall in a tense third set, fending off a furious Creamline comeback to complete the sweep.

The HD Spikers rode on their newfound chemistry and sharp execution, building a 23-18 cushion before Creamline rallied back. After multiple match points were saved, it was Ishie Lalongisip who emerged as the unlikely hero, scoring the final two points to secure the breakthrough win.

Lalongisip, Santos lead HD Spikers’ rise

Lalongisip finished with 15 points and dazzled on defense with 7 digs and 10 receptions. Erika Santos, meanwhile, fired 18 points to continue her rise as one of the league’s breakout stars, overcoming late errors with timely hits and consistency throughout the match.

Setter Gel Cayuna added 22 excellent sets and five points to earn Best Player of the Game honors. Cignal’s blockers tallied 8 rejections, outshining Creamline’s net defense by a wide margin.

The victory lifted Cignal to the top of Pool B at 3-0, sending a strong signal of its resurgence after a forgettable ninth-place finish last conference. Roselyn Doria-Aquino chipped in 10 markers while Buding Duremdes anchored floor defense with 16 digs.

Creamline falters in crunch time

Creamline’s late push in Set 3 saw them save match points behind Michele Gumabao and Alyssa Valdez, but their efforts fell short. Gumabao finished with 11 points while Valdez and Jema Galanza combined for 17.

Despite showing their championship heart in the closing stretch, Creamline couldn’t withstand Cignal’s determination. The loss snapped Creamline’s winning momentum and marked their first straight-sets loss since March.

With a 3-0 record and a rebuilt roster clicking early, Cignal now looks poised to contend — not just participate — in this year’s PVL race.