PSL Invitational kicks off with triple-header

MANILA, Philippines — Cignal HD begins its redemption tour when it collides with PLDT in the explosive opener of the 2019 Philippine Superliga Invitational Conference today at the Bacoor Strike Gym in Cavite.

The HD Spikers are coming off an impressive finals run in the last conference, and they sure want to continue their fine play against the Power Hitters in the 6 p.m. main game of an exciting triple-header that also features Marinerang Pilipina vs Generika-Ayala at 2 p.m. as well as Foton against Sta Lucia at 4 p.m.

From a mere playoff team, the Rachel Ann Daquis and Joveyln Gonzaga-led HD Spikers loom as top contenders especially after acquiring enough confidence, maturity and experience in an epic All-Filipino Conference run that included a gigantic upset win over deposed champion Petron in the semifinals.

The HD Spikers fell short against the F2 Cargo Movers in the finale but that’s exactly what makes them an even better team and a force to reckon with this time, according Daquis.

“Coming from a successful run in the All-Filipino Conference, the experience made us realize that we could do anything for as long as we put our hearts and minds into it,” she said as Cignal looks to complete unfinished business this conference.

Daquis will be joined by Jeck Dionela and Ranya Musa together with Roselyn Doria, Mylene Paat and Gonzaga, who are expected to bring the HD Spikers to another level after their stints with the Philippine women’s volleyball team in the inaugural ASEAN Grand Prix in Thailand.

Paat, Gonzaga and Doria threw in key contributions as the Pinay spikers secured a bronze medal in the four-nation volleyball tilt that will have its second stop in the Philippines next month.

Aware of a stronger and better Cignal squad, PLDT mentor Roger Gorayeb braces for a tough outing for his wards, who are looking to improve on their sixth-place finish in the last conference.

“Petron and F2 Logistics have always been consistent, but you can never underestimate other teams, especially Cignal. They (HD Spikers) can pull off a surprise. We have to be at our best every time we play against them,” he said, ordering Aiko Urdas and Grethcel Soltones to lead their stand.