Defending champion Cignal sets out for an elimination round sweep as it tackles unfancied Maverick today (Friday) in the 2024 Spikers’ Turf Open Conference’s rare triple-header at the Ynares Sports Arena in Pasig.
Unbeaten in seven games, the HD Spikers, however, have faced challenges over their last three games that all went down-to-the-wire. But they rose to every test to keep their spotless record.
But head coach Dexter Clamor was far from being satisfied with his wards’ performances, especially after barely getting past the D’Navigators last week and the VNS-Nasty Griffins last Wednesday. Both games were played without star Bryan Bagunas, who had to honor a previous commitment with the Win Streak club in Taiwan.
“Aayusin namin ‘yung laro namin para sa last game namin ng elimination round. Para ‘pag dating ng semifinals, maayos ‘yung maging performance namin,” said Clamor.
Gametime is at 2 p.m. with Jau Umandal and Madz Gampong tipped to lead the HD Spikers to a clean slate heading into the semis.
Razzel Palisoc and Kim Tan, however, vow to lead the Hard Hitters to a shocker of a finish.
In the 6 p.m. main game, Savouge Aesthetics aims to stay alive in the race for the final two semis berths although it would need a massive performance from its stalwarts and bench since they will go up against the powerhouse Criss Cross King Crunchers.
The Spin Doctors are looking to improve to 5-3 to force a tie for the fourth and final spot for the next round. In case of standoffs, the tiebreak system will decide the last semis entry as PGJC-Navy and D’Navigators, both with 5-2 slates, will clash for the final game of eliminations.
Although the King Crunchers are heavily-favored, Savouge head coach Sammy Acaylar remains hopeful about their chances.
“Actually, pinag-aralan na namin ‘yan eh. Running kami na makapasok sa apat so we need to watch the game of Criss Cross para mapag-aralan namin, Malay natin, bilog ang bola hindi natin alam,” said Acaylar.
VNS and Philippine Air Force tangle at 4 p.m. with both teams hoping to end their campaign on a high note.
