The Cignal HD Spikers. PVL Media Bureau
MANILA — Cignal has finally regained its winning ways.
This, as the HD Spikers eventually found their rhythm to dominate a depleted Zus Coffee squad, 22-25, 25-19, 25-18, 25-19, in the 2025 PVL Invitational on Monday at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.
READ: PVL: PLDT continues stellar run with sweep of Kobe Shinwa
The win has formally secured a Finals spot for PLDT, which won earlier in the day against Kobe Shinwa, 25-20, 25-22, 25-23.
Alas Pilipinas veterans Dawn Catindig and Vanie Gandler, who can now play for their mother club after PNVF clearance, injected much-needed life and finally saw action for the HD Spikers.
Catindig served as the main anchor in defense, registering 18 excellent digs and 15 excellent receptions, while Gandler had six points in limited minutes.
"Very happy, siyempre na nakabalik na kami sa Cignal and kami naman ni Vanie, we’re just doing our best din kung ano man 'yung mabigay namin sa team," said Catindig after the game.
"Proud ako sa team sa pinerform namin today kasi lahat talaga gustong bumawi and mabalik 'yung kumpyansa sa isa’t isa," she added.
On Tour MVP Erika Santos' offensive heroics paved the way for the win as she tallied 21 points, Ishie Lalongisip added 13 markers, and Tim Tiamzon as well as Erin Pangilinan contributed 10 points each.
For the Zus Coffee squad, they still played without the core of Chinnie Arroyo, Jovelyn Gonzaga, rookie AC Miner, national team member Thea Gagate, and main playmaker Cloanne Mondonedo, but still clinched the first set.
Chai Troncoso paced her crew with 16 points and 12 excellent digs, while Kate Santiago helped with 14 markers.
The HD Spikers hope to keep their tournament hopes alive against Kobe Shinwa on Thursday, while the Thunderbelles hope to hit their stride against Chery Tiggo tomorrow.