Cignal shook off a wobbly start and took control from the second set onwards, overpowering an undermanned ZUS Coffee squad, 22-25, 25-19, 25-18, 25-19, to keep its slim bronze medal hopes in the PVL Invitational Conference on Monday, August 25, night at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.

The much-needed win snapped a two-game skid for the HD Spikers in the Invitational – and a 0-3 card overall – and gave them their first victory in the prelims. More importantly, it reignited their campaign for a podium finish after a five-set setback to Creamline and a shutout loss to PLDT.

Anchoring Cignal’s resurgence was libero Dawn Catindig, who delivered 18 excellent digs and 15 receptions. “It was a team effort – everyone really wanted to bounce back and win,” said Catindig. “When we play like this, each player’s role becomes easier.”

Cignal’s one-hour, 49-minute triumph also formalized PLDT’s march to the Finals, with the High Speed Hitters clinching the first berth with an unblemished 4-0 record earlier in the day against Kobe Shinwa University.

Catindig and Santos lead Cignal’s resurgence

Stunned by the short-handed Thunderbelles in the opener, the HD Spikers regrouped with tighter floor defense and sharper attacks. The return of Alas Pilipinas standouts Catindig and Vanie Gandler gave the team fresh energy, with Catindig anchoring the defense and Gandler adding depth off the bench.

Erika Santos powered the offense with 21 points, while Ishie Lalongisip contributed 13. Tin Tiamzon and rookie Erin Pangilinan chipped in 10 each in a balanced performance that overwhelmed ZUS Coffee.

The Thunderbelles, missing several key players including Jovelyn Gonzaga and Thea Gagate, still showed fight behind Chai Troncoso (16 points) and Kate Santiago (14). But Cignal’s depth proved too much as they pulled away in the last three sets.

Now at 1-3, Cignal remains in bronze contention and will face Kobe Shinwa on Thursday with hopes of salvaging their Invitational campaign.