MANILA – Cignal will try to close out the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference title series against Criss Cross in Game Two on Friday at the Philsports Arena in Pasig City.
The HD Spikers displayed their championship experience to prevail in Game One, 22-25, 25-19, 22-25, 25-21, 15-12, last Wednesday, and moved to within a win of claiming their ninth title.
Cignal, which had previously swept Criss Cross in the 2024 Invitational and Open finals, will try to sustain its form to achieve the same in their 6 p.m. showdown.
Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor noted the contribution of reserve players Jau Umandal and reliever setter Cian Silang to their Game 1 victory.
Umandal topscored with 19 points, including 17 attacks in the third set, while Kris Cian Silang had 23 sets after replacing Owa Retamar.
“Everyone stepped up, especially Umandal. That’s the Jau we’ve been looking for. The support from each and every one, Cian (Silang)’s support for Owa (Retamar) – everything. It was truly a collective effort from everyone. That’s probably what led us to victory),” said Clamor.
Criss Cross, which defeated Cignal thrice in the elimination and semifinal rounds, is expected to rebound in Game Two with the help of Jude Garcia, Nico Almendras, Marck Espejo and Ish Polvorosa.
The King Crunchers entered the Finals with an unblemished 13-0 record.
Meanwhile, Savouge seeks to annex a second consecutive bronze medal when it battles VNS-Laticrete at 3 p.m. in Game 2 of their best-of-three series for third place.
Mark Calado scored 30 points in the Spin Doctors’ 21-25, 25-16, 26-24, 25-22 triumph in Game 1.
The Griffins, on the other hand, will rely on Bryan Jaleco, CJ Segui and Kenneth Culabat in a bid to extend the series. (PNA)
