Cignal opens Spikers’ Turf title defense with win over VNS but coach Clamor unimpressed

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Cignal began its title retention campaign in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference with a four-set victory over VNS, 25-23, 25-15, 27-29, 25-14, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Monday, October 27. Despite the win, head coach Dexter Clamor wasn’t satisfied with his team’s effort.

“Hindi ito ‘yung ineensayo namin, hindi ito ‘yung hinahanap namin kasi kami ‘yung defending champion,” said Clamor. “Dapat sa first game pa lang, ipakita namin na gusto namin makuha ulit ‘yung conference na ito. Medyo slow start kami tapos nakakuha pa sa amin ng set ‘yung VNS.”

Cignal’s Wendel Miguel delivers a powerful spike against the VNS defense. [PVL Images]

Clamor praises VNS despite lackluster Cignal start

While disappointed with Cignal’s early struggles, Clamor credited the Griffins for putting up a strong challenge, especially in the third set where they extended the game.

After VNS snatched Set 3 in dramatic fashion off consecutive errors by Cian Silang and Louie Ramirez, 29-27, the Super Spikers recovered and dominated the fourth frame. Wendel Miguel, Martin Bugaoan, and JP Bugaoan powered the defending champions to close out the match in two hours.

“In fairness sa VNS, ibang team sila ngayon,” Clamor said. “Tumaas ‘yung level ng laro nila, very commendable ang performance nila sa game na ‘to. Good job sa coaches and players.”

Miguel leads Cignal’s balanced attack

Miguel finished with 17 points built on 14 spikes and three aces to lead the Super Spikers in the league organized by Sports Vision and supported by Alpha Insurance, Premiere EMS, Buffalo’s Wings n’ Things, and Arena Plus.

JM Ronquillo backed him up with 15 points on nine attacks, four aces, and two blocks, while Bugaoan chipped in 13 markers, including two blocks. The win gave Cignal an early share of the lead with Alpha Insurance. The two squads will meet on Wednesday at the Paco Arena.

Van Tracy Prudenciado impressed in his debut for the Super Spikers, tallying 14-of-21 excellent receptions and 11-of-18 excellent digs.

RK Medino and Axel Book led the Griffins with 11 points apiece as they prepare for another tough matchup against the Criss Cross King Crunchers on Friday, also at the Paco Arena.