Savouge Aesthetics delivered a historic performance, toppling defending champion Cignal in straight sets, 25-16, 25-22, 25-18, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Monday. The Spin Doctors remain unbeaten in the 2025 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference semifinals, showcasing teamwork and tactical excellence.

Head coach Sydney Calderon made a bold move by shifting Mark Calado to the opposite spiker position, opening space for captain Hero Austria and keeping Shawie Caritativo in her usual role. The gamble paid off as Calado scored 12 points, while Austria and Caritativo provided crucial support.

Tactical masterstroke leads to historic victory

Cignal briefly held a 19-17 lead in the second set, but Savouge rallied with an 8-3 finish led by Caritativo, Giles Torres, and Madz Gampong. The Spin Doctors turned a narrow 14-13 lead in the third set into a commanding 19-13 advantage, executing five consecutive scoring sequences.

This marks Savouge’s second-ever victory over Cignal, the first being a thrilling five-set win on October 25, 2024. Calderon praised her players’ hunger and dedication, noting that the team’s performance showed they are ready to compete at the highest level in the tournament.

Savouge now stands at a perfect 3-0 record alongside Japanese guest team Kindai. The Spin Doctors will face Criss Cross tomorrow at Ynares Center Montalban for their first-ever Finals appearance. Cignal falls to 1-2 and faces a must-win scenario against Kindai to keep its title defense alive.