Kobe Shinwa U, Cignal share PSL Invitational crown

Japan’s Kobe Shinwa University shared the 2017 Philippine Superliga Invitational title with Cignal after downing Petron, 25-17, 25-19, 21-25, 25-18, Saturday at Filoil Flying Centre in San Juan.

The young Japanese side leaned on a balanced scoring led by Marijo Fujiwara and Kana Edamatsu, who tallied 14 and 12 points, respectively.

Under league rules, Japan, the only foreign team in the tournament, will have to share the title with Cignal, which finished as the best local team.

Cignal disposed of Foton, 25-20, 25-18, 25-22, earlier to move on the cusp of the title. The HD Spikers clinched the championship the moment Japan won the first set of its match against Petron, which needed a sweep to have a chance at taking the crown.

Frances Molina fired 16 points in a losing effort for the Blaze Spikers.