Cignal overcame ProVolley Academy in straight sets, 25-13, 25-19, 25-20, on Thursday, November 27, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in the Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference semifinals. The Super Spikers’ victory ended ProVolley Academy’s run in the tournament while keeping Cignal in contention for the remaining placements.

Despite the end of their streak of consecutive Finals appearances, Cignal showed no signs of letting up, maintaining focus and intensity throughout the match. The Australians struggled to keep pace with the Super Spikers’ disciplined play and effective blocking.

Resilient performance from the Super Spikers

Head coach Dexter Clamor emphasized the importance of staying motivated after the Finals disappointment. “Kahit na wala na kaming chance sa Finals, kailangan ibigay pa rin namin ‘yung best namin. Medyo mabigat maglaro kasi nandoon pa rin ‘yung panghihinayang, but at least, yung second six nung ipinasok ko sila, talagang ginusto nila maglaro,” he said.

Cignal’s team responded to a third-set challenge when Samuel Hansen, Isaac Relova, and Zac O’Brien briefly led ProVolley 15-13. JM Ronquillo, Nas Gwaza, Steven Rotter, and Vince Abrot turned the momentum back, closing the match in one hour and 13 minutes.

Standout contributions lead the way

Jau Umandal led all scorers with 16 points, including 12 attacks, three blocks, and one ace. Ronquillo contributed 13 points in just two sets, while KC Andrade added eight points as Cignal dominated spiking, 45-25.

For ProVolley Academy, Hansen led with nine points, while Relova and O’Brien added five each. The Australians finished the semifinals with a 0-5 record, highlighting the Super Spikers’ commanding performance.