Cignal sweeps Choco Mucho in PVL opener

Cignal HD Spikers opened its Pool B campaign in the Premier League Volleyball (PVL) Reinforced Conference on a high note as they cruised past Choco Mucho Flying Titans, securing a 25-18, 25-21, 25-16 triumph at the PhilSports Arena in Pasig. 

New HD Spikers MJ Perez and Judith Abil were clear-cut contributors in the sweep.

Despite missing key players like Dawn Macandili-Catindig and Vanie Gandler, Cignal unleashed a potent offense led by their Venezuelan import Perez, anchoring the team with game-high 22 points off 19 attacks, two aces, and a block, while Abil proved herself worthy of a spot with 15 excellent digs and eight receptions. 

“It is very nice to be in a new team with new and young players. I feel happy because I can help them with my experience. Of course, I have good friends in the other teams, my former teammates, but it is really nice to come to a team who appreciates my work,” Perez said.

“I know there is more to come because this is just the beginning and we will keep working for it,” she added.

Meanwhile, Choco Mucho, hampered by the absence of Sisi Rondina due to Alas Pilipinas duties, struggled to find their rhythm. 

Greek import Zoi Faki took the scoring load for the Flying Titans with 13 points, 10 receptions, and eight digs while newly debuted Dindin Manabat-Santiago contributed eight markers.

Cignal aims for another win against ZUS Coffee on Tuesday, July 23, while Choco Mucho seeks to rebound against Akari, both held at the same venue.