Cignal overcame a rocky start to stun Alpha Insurance in a dramatic five-set match at the Paco Arena, highlighting Louie Ramirez’s clutch performance in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference.

Down two sets to one, Ramirez shifted into high gear, sparking a late-game rally that propelled the Super Spikers to a 20-25, 25-22, 21-25, 25-23, 15-11 win and their second straight triumph.

Ramirez ignites Cignal’s comeback

Ramirez, the former NCAA MVP, struggled to find his rhythm early, scoring just three points in the first three sets. A temporary benching by Coach Dexter Clamor, however, proved decisive.

“When I got back in Set 4, I knew I had to help the team. And that’s what I did,” Ramirez said, recalling his shift in momentum.

He unleashed a flurry of kills, back-row attacks, and precise off-speed hits, keeping Alpha on the defensive. A key block late in the fourth set helped Cignal force a decider.

In the final set, Ramirez took command, leading a 6-0 run to turn a 3-6 deficit into a 9-6 advantage. He capped off the victory with a match-clinching spike, thrilling his teammates and fans alike. Ramirez finished with 23 points, including 10 in the fifth set, on 20 attacks and three kill blocks.

Team effort seals the win

Cignal’s win was not a solo effort. Team captain JP Bugaoan contributed 15 points and four kill blocks, while JM Ronquillo and Josafat added 11 and 10 points, respectively.

For Alpha Insurance, Motol led with 18 points, four blocks, one ace, and 33 excellent receptions. Casas and Barbie San Andres added 17 and 16 points, respectively, but the Protectors could not close out the tight contest, dropping to 1-1.

Despite the loss, Alpha showed resilience, challenging Cignal throughout and nearly matching their debut conference win total in just their second outing of the Invitational.