STA. ROSA, Laguna – Cignal secured the first semifinals berth in the Premier Volleyball League Invitational Conference with a 25-21, 26-24, 14-25, 25-22 win over Creamline last night at the Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Sports Complex here.

Ces Molina had four blocks for a 15-point outing and collected 15 digs while Gel Cayuna had a triumphant return from one-game absence by firing a match-high three service aces and tossed in 17 excellent sets for the HD Spikers.

Cignal improved to 4-0.

The loss negated Tots Carlos’ 21-point outburst for the Cool Smashers, who lost a seven-point lead in the second set that the HD Spikers were able to overcome.

Creamline fell in a tie with Army-Black Mamba and PLDT at 2-1.

Earlier, Alina Bicar proved to be a stabilizing force for Chery Tiggo to stave off elimination following a 25-22, 25-14, 25-21 sweep of PetroGazz.

In her first start in the conference, Bicar tossed in 13 excellent sets and collected 11 digs to go with three attacks, one service ace and one block to help the Crossovers secure their first win after three consecutive losses.

“Very grateful ako kasi nagawa namin yung strategy na gusto naming gawin,” said Aying Esteban after getting his first professional coaching win for Chery Tiggo.

Bicar gave the much-needed confidence to her spikers, as Shaya Adorador fired 15 points, while EJ Laure had 13 points, including the match-clinching kill for the Crossovers.

“Iyon ang binibigay na motivation para sa sarili ko. Grabe ang binibigyan sa akin na kumpiyansa ni coach Aying,” said Bicar, who played the entire one-hour, 30-minute contest.

Mylene Paat added 12 points while Cza Carandang also played her best game for Chery Tiggo with 11 points. Libero Buding Duremdes collected a team-best 20 digs.

Now in full strength after encountering a major hump due to health issues, the Crossovers were able to play as one cohesive unit.

Aiza Maizo-Pontillas came through with 12 kills and eight receptions while playmaker Chie Saet tallied 18 excellent sets, nine digs and two service aces for the Angels.

Despite the solid efforts of its veterans, PetroGazz bowed out of contention with a 0-4 record with two matches left in its elimination round assignments.