Cignal stakes win run vs Petron

MANILA, Philippines - Unbeaten Cignal gets the chance to prove its real worth as it faces title holder Petron as Philippine Superliga action resumes today where the league also formally introduces the video challenge system at The Arena in San Juan.

The HD Spikers swept the first round of the elims, including a five-set decision over the fancied Blaze Spikers. But the defending champions are out to even things up, ensuring a slambang action in the featured clash at 6:15 p.m.

Petron, powered by Brazilians Rupia Inck and Erika Adachi along with local aces Rachel Anne Daquis, Frances Molina, Aby Maraño and Dindin Santiago, is in third with a 3-2 card, the other setback coming at the hands of Philips Gold, which totes a 4-1 slate for second.

Meanwhile, Foton and RC Cola-Air Force, with identical 1-3 marks, tangle in the 4:15 p.m. opener with the winner moving to solo fourth in the inter-club tournament presented by Asics and backed by Milo with Senoh, Mueller and Mikasa as technical partners and TV5 as official broadcaster.

After re-tooling its roster during the off-season, Cignal has installed itself as the team to beat after sweeping the first round behind American import Ariel Usher, who erupted for 36 points built on 29 kills, five blocks and one ace in their 26-19, 24-26, 25-23, 25-17 victory over RC Cola-Air Force over the weekend.

But the HD Spikers are in for a tough outing against Blaze Spikers, who are also serious in making a strong run in the second round of this tournament which stakes a ticket to the AVC Asian Women’s Club Championship in Manila next year.