CIGNAL, poised to unveil another strategic move in Game 2, seeks to close out the Spikers’ Turf Open Conference Finals against Criss Cross today at the Rizal Memorial Coliseum.

With the championship within reach, HD Spikers coach Dexter Clamor remains tight-lipped about his plans, hinting at yet another surprise tactic to keep the King Crunchers guessing in their 6 p.m. showdown.

In the series’ opener Wednesday, Clamor made a major change on his starting lineup, a move that paid off handsomely, with co-captain Wendel Miguel and Nas Gwaza, who took over Madz Gampong and Lloyd Josafat’s spots, making impactful contributions.

This adjustment, coupled with Bryan Bagunas’ explosive 26-point performance, keyed Cignal’s 27-25, 23-25, 25-21, 25-19 Game 1 victory over Criss Cross.

Now, the HD Spikers are determined to maintain their momentum and secure the title and not give the King Crunchers an opening to force a rubber match.

Clamor emphasizes the need to address their errors and weaknesses, acknowledging that there’s still room for improvement despite their triumph in the Finals opener. With the championship on the line, Cignal is pulling out all the stops in their quest for a second consecutive Open trophy and a seventh Spikers’ Turf title.

“Mas paghahandaan pa namin sila sa Game 2. Bawat rotations, bawat errors, marami pa rin kasi kaming errors eh. We will work on our errors, our weaknesses para pagdating sa Game 2, handing-handa na kami para sa kanila,” said Clamor.

After combining 43 points in the opener, Criss Cross’ hopes to lessen the offensive burden of Marck Espejo and Jude Garcia.

To force a deciding Game 3, the rest of the King Crunchers need to step up after Kim Malabunga and team captain Ysay Marasigan struggled the first time out.

In the battle for the bronze medal, PGJC-Navy aims to finish strong against Iloilo’s D’Navigators, as the military club is seeking to replicate its podium finish from the 2022 Open Conference at 4 p.m.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Theodore P. Jurado