Spikers' Turf: Cignal kicks off Invitational bid vs Chichi DHTSI
Fresh faces Joshua Retamar and JM Ronquillo made a superb debut as they steered Cignal HD Spikers to victory in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Invitational Conference at the Santa Rosa Sports Complex in Laguna on Tuesday, October 22.
The reigning Open Conference champions launched their campaign by cruising past Chichi DHTSI in straight sets, 25-16, 25-16, 25-14.
The HD Spikers bagged a swift one-hour, 11 minute win over the Titans with former National University standout Retamar, who only played in the first two sets, set the tone by tossing 10 excellent sets, while ex-De La Salle University ace Ronquillo tallied nine points on five attacks, two blocks, and two aces.
"Maybe to others, it looks like a strong start, but for us coaches and players, we're not completely satisfied. We committed a lot of unforced errors that shouldn't be happening at our level," said Cignal head coach Dexter Clamor.
Despite missing key players Louie Ramirez, Wendel Miguel and Steven Rotter, the HD Spikers managed to limit their opponent’s attack to just 18 successful hits, crushing the Titan’s defense, while they delivered 48 out of 94 attack attempts.
Jau Umandal paced Cignal with 12 points, while Mark Calado hammered 10 on eight attacks and two kill blocks. Team captain JP Bugaoan chipped in nine markers.
Vince Lorenzo stood out as he manned the floor with 10 excellent digs and nine excellent receptions.
Building on their first victory, the HD Spikers hope to make it two in a row as they head back to action on Friday, October 25, against Savouge at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.