PVL: Ces Molina, Cignal too much for Galeries

Cignal HD Spikers’ Ces Molina during a game against Galeries in the PVL All-Filipino Conference.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines–Showing no signs of slowing down, Cignal cruised to a 2-0 start in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on Saturday.

The HD Spikers leaned on team captain and defensive ace Dawn Macandili-Catindig to dominate the Galeries Tower, 25-14, 25-16, 25-17, at PhilSports Arena in Pasig City.

“I think in terms of our performance, we gave our best today,” Molina said in Filipino after delivering 14 points on 12 attacks and two aces. “I’m proud of my teammates because each one of them can really contribute to the team.”

“I’m happy that we’re able to win in straight sets.”

SCHEDULE: PVL All-Filipino Conference 2024

Coming from a four-set win over Akari in their opening game, the HD Spikers quickly imposed their will and overwhelmed Galeries with a 16-8 attack advantage while feasting on the Highrisers’ nine errors in the opening set.

Molina, who also had five excellent digs and six excellent receptions, put the finishing touches with a cross-court attack and back-to-back aces before Chai Troncoso nailed the match point. Catindig had 14 excellent digs and six excellent receptions.

Cignal HD Spikers libero Dawn Macandili-Catindig.–MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

“Our training has been grueling because we know that this conference is not going to be easy,” Molina said.

“Also, like what coach said, we can’t just settle for good. We need to be better every day especially during trainings and games,” she added.

After a solid start, Cignal kept its foot on the gas pedal and rushed to a 13-7 lead in the second set that widened to 20-12 following a back row hit by Molina.

“We’re very focused on our goal which is to win as many games as we could in the elimination round for a better chance to enter the podium,” Molina, the former Most Valuable Player, said.

“I think we’re getting the right chemistry with our new players Dawn and Jov (Fernandez),” Molina said.

Galeries coach Lerma Giron only got a total of 30 points from the Highrisers (0-2) with Ysa Jimenez top scoring with nine point

Cignal has a chance to continue its perfect run so far when they meet slumping Nxled while Galeries will be facing a tall order as it battles powerhouse Creamline, both on Thursday at PhilSports Arena.