Cignal outlasted North Cotabato in five thrilling sets, 25-23, 21-25, 25-19, 21-25, 15-12, and claimed the men’s gold of the Philippine Volleyball Federation Champions League Sunday night at the Philsports Arena.
Marck Espejo had four blocks for a 21-point showing, while JP Bugaoan added 20 points, including the championship-clinching point for the HD Spikers. Bugaoan, who went 15-of-25 attacks, also had a match-best five blocks.
“We were very happy. All the hard work for this 2022 paid off with all that we went through, all the misunderstandings and internal problems. But before we end the year, somehow we were able to fix it and we made a lot of effort,” said Cignal coach Dexter Clamor.
The HD Spikers took a lot of effort to reach the top of the tournament supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, Rebisco, PLDT, Philippine Olympic Committee, Cignal HD, One Sports, Cignal Play, F2 Logistics and Amigo Entertainment.
Cignal placed second behind PGJC-Navy in Pool A with a 4-1 record and needed five sets to beat Bacolod City in the quarterfinals. The HD Spikers swept Imus City in the semifinals to arrange a Finals duel with the G-Spikers.
Jao Umandal led the G-Spikers with 26 points, while John Vic de Guzman added 25 points, including two blocks.
Meantime, California Precision Sports-Antipolo City carved out 25-19, 25-18, 25-21 win over University of the East-Manila to secure the women’s gold. Casiey Dongallo, who was still in Cebu when the CAL Babies won their pool opener against the Lady Warriors, was able to make it up by producing 20 kills in the clincher.
Jelai Gajero had 14 points, including two blocks, while Lhouriz Tuddao also recorded two blocks for an eight-point outing for CPS Antipolo City.
