Cignal, Creamline duke it out for crown

MANILA, Philippines —  Cignal emerged victorious in a gripping semifinal clash that went the distance, outwitting and outlasting Kurashiki, 25-23, 19-25, 25-23, 22-25, 15-11, to seal an all-Filipino finale with Creamline in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational 2024 at the PhilSports Arena last night.

In a match that tested both power and composure, the HD Spikers displayed nerves of steel, particularly in the decisive fifth set. After battling back from two-point deficits, they leaned on the relentless power of MJ Perez, who delivered in the clutch to propel Cignal to victory.

With the win, the HD Spikers set up a highly anticipated showdown against the formidable Creamline Cool Smashers, who are chasing an unprecedented grand slam.

The championship match is set at 7 tonight at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Meanwhile, Kurashiki and Est Cola vie for the bronze medal at 4 p.m.

Cignal finished with a 3-1 record, second only to Creamline’s perfect 4-0 slate. Kurashiki wound up with a 2-2 slate, while Est Cola and Farm Fresh ended the tournament with 1-3 and 0-4 marks, respectively.

Perez eclipsed her previous best of 35 points, which she achieved in a losing effort against Creamline, firing a new personal best of 36 points while finishing with 21 excellent digs. She dominated the closing stretch, delivering three critical points, including a well-placed drop ball that gave Cignal a crucial 12-10 lead in the final set.

Earlier, Creamline demolished Farm Fresh, 25-15, 25-13, 25-19, for a sweep of the elims.

Jema Galanza made a triumphant return to the Creamline roster after fulfilling her international commitments with Alas Pilipinas, leading the team with a game-high 13 points in just two sets.