Games today
(Bacoor Strike Gym)
2 p.m. — Marinerang Pilipina vs Generika-Ayala
4 p.m. — Foton vs Sta. Lucia
6 p.m. — Cignal vs PLDT Home Fibr
CIGNAL HD begins its redemption tour when it collides with PLDT in the explosive triple-bill opener of the 2019 Philippine Superliga Invitational Conference today at the Bacoor Strike Gym in Cavite.
The HD Spikers are coming off an impressive finals run last conference and they sure want to continue their fine play against the Power Hitters in the main game at 6 p.m. of an exciting triple header that also features the collision between Marinerang Pilipina and Generika-Ayala at 2 p.m. as well as the Foton-Sta Lucia battle at 4 p.m.
From a mere playoff team, the Rachel Ann Daquis and Jovelyn Gonzaga-led HD Spikers loom as top contenders this time especially after acquiring enough confidence, maturity and experience in an epic All-Filipino Conference run that included a gigantic upset win over deposed champion Petron in the semifinals.
The HD Spikers fell short against the Cargo Movers in the finale but that’s exactly what makes them an even scarier squad and a legitimate force be reckoned with this time according to team captain Daquis.
“Coming from a successful run in the All-Filipino Conference, the experience made us realized that we could do anything for as long as we put our hearts and minds into it.” she said as Cignal looks to complete an unfinished business this conference.
Ms. Daquis will be joined by Jeck Dionela and Ranya Musa together with Roselyn Doria, Mylene Paat and Ms. Gonzaga who are expected to bring HD Spikers to another level after their magnificent stints with the Philippine women’s national volleyball team in the inaugural ASEAN Grand Prix in Thailand.
Misses Paat, Gonzaga and Doria threw in key contributions as the Pinay spikers secured a bronze medal in the four-nation volleyball tilt that will have its second stop in the Philippines next month serving as a test event to the upcoming 30th Southeast Asian Games (SEAG) to be held here in November.
Aware of a stronger and better Cignal squad, PLDT mentor Roger Gorayeb braces for a tough outing for his wards who are looking to better their sixth place finish last conference.
“Petron and F2 Logistics have always been consistent, but you can never underestimate other teams, especially Cignal. They (HD Spikers) can pull off a surprise. We have to be at our best every time we play against them,” he said, ordering Aiko Urdas and Grethcel Soltones to lead their stand.
ESPN5 will air all matches of the Invitational Conference on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. — John Bryan Ulanday
