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Cignal Shocks Unbeaten ZUS Coffee To Boost Playoff Drive
Photo credit: PVL
MANILA — Cignal delivered a stunning performance on Thursday night, sweeping previously unbeaten ZUS Coffee, 25-12, 26-24, 25-23, to strengthen its quarterfinal bid in the PVL Reinforced Conference at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

The Super Spikers showed composure and teamwork in one of their most convincing wins of the season, dominating at the net and holding their nerve in crucial moments. The victory was sealed in just one hour and 21 minutes, pushing Cignal to solo fifth place with a 4-3 record and keeping its playoff hopes alive.

Erika Santos led the charge with 19 points built on 13 attacks, three aces, and three blocks. Her final two points in the third set broke a tense 23-all deadlock, giving Cignal the sweep and its second straight upset win against a top-ranked opponent.

Cignal’s steady rise has been defined by growth under pressure. The team showed greater confidence in closing out tight sets—an area where it had previously struggled earlier in the conference. Its balanced attack and improved execution highlighted the results of consistent training and focus.

The Super Spikers’ defense proved decisive, out-blocking ZUS Coffee nine to one and repeatedly stopping import Anna DeBeer, who still managed 26 points but lacked support from her teammates. The usually sharp Thunderbelles faltered in serve reception and coverage, resulting in a rare off night for the league leaders.

Playmaker Gel Cayuna orchestrated Cignal’s offense with precision, tallying 21 excellent sets, six points, and seven digs. Libero Dawn Catindig anchored the backline with 16 excellent digs, while locals Vanie Gandler, Roselyn Aquino, and Jackie Acuña added steady contributions to keep Cignal’s momentum going.

The win also marked Cignal’s second straight triumph over an unbeaten squad. The team had earlier ended PLDT’s 15-game winning streak—a run that included back-to-back PVL titles—signaling a strong resurgence in form. Since then, Cignal has found its rhythm, posting consecutive wins against Akari and ZUS Coffee.

Despite remaining on top with a 6-1 record, ZUS Coffee struggled to match Cignal’s intensity. The Thunderbelles’ offense leaned heavily on DeBeer, while key players Thea Gagate, AC Miner, and Chinnie Arroyo were limited by Cignal’s tight defense.

The victory showcased Cignal’s renewed energy and discipline, as the team combined strategic blocking, strong serving, and mental toughness to overpower one of the league’s most dominant squads.

Cignal now faces powerhouse Creamline next Tuesday—a crucial matchup that could define its quarterfinal path. With momentum on their side, the Super Spikers are proving to be one of the most dangerous teams heading into the final stretch of the PVL season.
Nov 13, 2025
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