PVL PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — Ces Molina unleashed 20 points to power Cignal past Army Black Mamba, 25-17, 21-25, 25-20, 25-20, in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference on Saturday at San Juan Arena.
Molina poured 16 kills and delivered a game-high four blocks including 14 digs as the HD Spikers opened their midseason campaign on a high note despite missing head coach Shaq Delos Santos, who is on vacation in Dubai.
Assistant coach Kirk Beliran called the shots for Cignal, which also drew 10 points each from Rachel Anne Daquis and Roselyn Doria.
“This is my first time coaching (at a professional level). It wasn’t easy. But I’m glad that our players trust each other. Even without coach Shaq, they still played well and got our first win,” Beliran said in Filipino.
“But coach Shaq gave me advice to coach without pressure before he left.”
Beliran added that Delos Santos will be back next week.
Ria Meneses was also instrumental with eight points. Setter Gel Cayuna dished out 24 excellent sets on top of seven points, while Jheck Dionela protected the floor with 16 digs and eight excellent receptions.
Cignal pounded Army in blocking with 16 kill blocks against the latter’s four.
The Lady Troopers had a 48-44 edge in attacking but they gave up 34 errors.
Nene Bautista led Army with 14 points. Jovelyn Gonzaga returned to indoor action with 13 points, 22 digs, and five excellent receptions, while Mich Morente added 12 markers, 11 digs, and six receptions.