Cignal Super Spikers relied on experience and composure to edge Savouge Aesthetics, 34-32, 25-22, 25-22, on Friday, November 14, 2025, in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference. The defending champions survived a nerve-wracking opening set and demonstrated the poise needed to secure a semifinal spot.

The Super Spikers improved to 5-2, joining unbeaten Criss Cross King Crunchers (6-0) in the post-elimination phase. Savouge ended the eliminations at 4-3 and must await Sunday’s results to determine its semifinal fate.

Cignal withstands pressure in opening set

The first frame became a test of character, with both teams refusing to yield. Cignal faced multiple set points against Savouge but countered with disciplined net defense and tight coverage. A key hit by Cignal and a costly Savouge attack error finally broke the stalemate, giving the Super Spikers the early edge.

Every subsequent set saw Cignal maintain composure. In the second, a critical error by Savouge’s Giles Torres allowed Wendel Miguel to score two straight points, clinching the 25-22 win. The third set mirrored the same back-and-forth intensity, but Louie Ramirez and Lloyd Josafat provided the finishing spark. Ramirez led with 14 points and 12 excellent receptions, while Josafat added 10 points including four blocks. Miguel and Jau Umandal contributed nine points each, and Jay Rack Dela Noche chipped in seven.

Savouge shows resilience but falls short

Savouge’s Sydney Calderon shuffled her lineup in search of rhythm, but the team struggled to maintain consistency under pressure. Reymark Betco and Giles Torres scored nine points each, while Mark Calado and Madz Gampong added eight apiece. Despite their efforts, the Golden Spikers could not overcome Cignal’s composure and championship experience.

The challenge for Cignal now is sustaining this form as key players, including Ramirez, Josafat, Owa Retamar, and Vince Lorenzo, join the national team’s preparations for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.