Cignal powers past Nxled, heads into QF with momentum

In a remarkable display of resilience, Cignal HD Spikers surged into the quarterfinals of the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference with a 27-25, 25-20, 25-20 victory over Nxled at the FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Tuesday night.

Despite trailing in the early going, the HD Spikers showcased their strength by rallying back and overwhelming the Chameleons in the subsequent sets. MJ Perez played a pivotal role, contributing 17 points, 10 excellent digs and seven receptions, leading the Cignal to its third consecutive victory and a 7-1 record in the eliminations phase.

“Sobrang happy and proud sa team – that we won our last game going to the quarterfinals,” said Cignal coach Shaq delos Santos. “Ready naman ang team (for the quarters) pero kailangan pa ding mag-ingat, magpa-kondisyon at mag-focus.”

With a winning streak that includes a five-set triumph over Galeries Tower last Thursday, Cignal is primed for the knockout stage, where they will face the No. 7 seed, most likely Capital1.

“I was intense at the start,” admitted Perez, who overcame a challenging beginning to drive Cignal’s comeback in the opening set, which Nxled had initially dominated.

Team captain Ces Molina added crucial support with 11 points and five excellent receptions, while setter Gel Cayuna contributed nine points.

Jacqueline Acuña and Chin Basas also posted significant numbers, combining for 16 points to highlight Cignal’s balanced offensive attack.

Molina expressed her hopes for continued success, saying: “It’s always the team’s goal to contribute. Now that we’re in the quarters, I hope we keep the momentum going.”

Perez remains committed to putting in the effort needed for the next phase.

Nxled finished the elims with a 1-7 record.

Meegan Hart and Jho Maraguinot led Nxled’s efforts with 16 and 15 points, respectively, while Chiara Permentilla and Jaila Atienza each scored six points. Despite an early advantage, Nxled couldn’t maintain its performance against Cignal’s strong finishing play.

Cignal edged Nxled in spikes, 52-50, and tied in blocks. The HD Spikers capitalized on Nxled’s errors, scoring eight aces while allowing only three.

Cignal also benefitted from 13 points off Nxled’s 13 unforced errors, compared to their own eight.