PVL: Dawn Macandili-Catindig delivers defensive masterclass with pro record 48 digs
F2 Logistics’ Dawn Macandili-Catindig. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines—Dawn Macandili-Catindig set the most excellent digs in the professional ranks to keep F2 Logistics unbeaten in two games in Pool B of the 2023 Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference.
Catindig was everywhere as the star libero put up an eye-popping 48 digs and 15 excellent receptions to help the Cargo Movers escape the gritty Cignal HD Spikers, 25-20, 30-28, 23-25, 25-22, on Saturday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.
“I just did my job,” said Catindig in Filipino after setting the most digs in a single game of the pro league.
The longtime F2 Logistics defensive specialist said she really prepared for the attacks of Cignal, which has a talented setter in Gel Cayuna maximizing their deep spiker rotation bannered by Ces Molina, Jovelyn Gonzaga, and Rachel Anne Daquis as well as her middle blockers Ria Meneses and Rose Doria.
“We knew that Cignal is a persistent team and their setter is good at distributing the balls so their attack percentage is efficient, especially in their first game,” she said. “So we really scouted their team.”
Dawn Macandili on setting a new pro record 48 digs. #PVLInvitational2023
Posted by Inquirer Sports on Saturday, July 1, 2023
Catindig credited her stellar defensive night to their first line of defense as the Cargo Movers had eight blocks in the game led by Kianna Dy’s three blocks to finish with 23 points. Majoy Baron had two including the game-winning rejection on Daquis’ attack.
“Thankfully, our blocking went well so it was easier for me to defend. I won’t be able to defend well if our blocking [pattern] wasn’t organized,” she said.
F2 Logistics shares the 2-0 lead in Pool B with its July 11 opponent Choco Mucho set at Philsports Arena.
Catindig hopes to keep their momentum by making the most of the PVL’s 10-day break to give way for the country’s hosting of the Volleyball Nations League men’s division this week.
“Of course, we’re thankful for the win and we will bring this experience going forward to the next games,” she said.
