HD Spikers back on winning track, Overhaul Foton in Philippine Superliga Grand Prix

MANILA, Philippines — Cignal HD outlasted Foton late to eke out a 15-25, 25-22, 21-25, 25-13, 21-19 victory yesterday to get back on the winning track in the Philippine Superliga Grand Prix at the Malolos Sports and Convention Center in Malolos, Bulacan.

American Erica Wilson came through when her team needed it most and unloaded crucial kills in the fifth and final set to help propel the HD Spikers to their fourth victory against two defeats, which was good for solo third place.

The power-hitting Wilson, a former member of the United States team in the FIVB U23 Women’s World Championship, came through with monster numbers with 29 points including 21 on spikes, five aces and three kill blocks in a match that lasted almost two and a half hours.

She got the needed help from Anastasia Artemeva, who scattered 16 hits.

Cignal coach Edgar Barroga had to convert skipper Rachel Anne Daquis to opposite spiker and Mumay Vivas to a second setter in the absence of Raya Musa and setter Pauline Cardiente.

It worked.

“This win is a blessing for us,” said Barroga.

Petron Blaze and F2 Logistics lead the way with pristine 4-0 (win-loss) records.

The win made up for Cignal’s stinging 22-25, 13-25, 27-29 defeat to United Volleyball Club Thursday.

In contrast, the Tornadoes, who were paced by Courtney Felinski’s 23 points, skidded to their fourth straight defeat and remained with just a victory a show. 

In the second game, PLDT Home Fibr routed Sta. Lucia Realty, 25-17, 25-23, 25-18, to nail its third straight win after dropping its first two assignments and jump to solo fourth spot.