Gel Cayuna backs up bold promise in Cignal’s win over Creamline

The Cignal Super Spikers punched their ticket to the semifinals of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after outlasting the Creamline Cool Smashers in a thrilling five-set battle, 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, during the Qualifying Round on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

In a match that showcased resilience, tactical discipline, and star power on both sides, Cignal leaned on a total team effort to overcome the league’s perennial contenders. The victory not only secured their place in the semifinals but also underscored their growing confidence as the tournament enters its final stretch.

Leading the charge was Erika Santos, who delivered a standout performance with 26 points built on 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace. Santos consistently provided the offensive spark, stepping up in crucial moments to keep Cignal within striking distance throughout the tightly contested encounter.

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Backing her up was Vanie Gandler, who turned in an all-around performance with 22 points, while anchoring the team’s floor defense with 28 excellent receptions and 13 digs. Her stability in both offense and defense proved vital in neutralizing Creamline’s relentless attacks.

However, the defining presence on the court came from setter Gel Cayuna, who masterfully orchestrated Cignal’s offense. Cayuna tallied 35 excellent sets while also contributing 11 points, effectively controlling the tempo and ensuring her hitters were put in the best positions to score. Her performance was particularly remarkable given the expectations she had set for herself prior to the match.

Cignal’s Erika Santos, Vanie Gandler, and Gel Cayuna reflect on playing in front of a loud, pro-Creamline crowd.

For Santos, she uses the cheers to play better: “Masarap maglaro na ‘yung crowd parang nasa kabilang team lahat.” #PVL2026 @ABSCBNNews pic.twitter.com/HgqbZkp0Ka

— Kennedy Caacbay (@kennedyzcaacbay) March 26, 2026

Cayuna had confidently declared before the game that she aimed to register at least 30 excellent sets and reach double digits in scoring against Creamline—a goal she ultimately fulfilled in emphatic fashion.

“Coach asked us about our goals, like how many excellent sets and points we wanted. I said 30 plus sets and double digits in scoring – so I’m glad I was able to achieve that,” Cayuna said in the postmatch press conference.

Beyond individual achievements, the victory was a testament to Cignal’s preparation and collective resolve following their previous outing. The team showed marked improvements in execution, particularly in crucial stretches where composure often spells the difference between victory and defeat.

“We finally felt relieved because we learned a lot from our last game. Our preparation was intense. We really studied Creamline so we could win today. I’m just really happy because everyone held on and fought. Even the coaches put in so much effort to win this game. We are happy, but we will keep working as we head into the semifinals,” she added.

Cignal head coach Shaq Delos Santos echoed Cayuna’s sentiments, praising his squad’s discipline and commitment to the game plan. For Delos Santos, the win was a clear reflection of how well his players embraced their roles and executed under pressure.

“They really committed because I told them to focus on our intention – what we needed to do to win. They executed exactly what we asked from them, so I’m really happy and proud that they were able to do it,” Delos Santos continued.

With momentum on their side, the Super Spikers now shift their focus to the semifinals, where tougher challenges await. If their performance against Creamline is any indication, Cignal is peaking at the right time—and shaping up to be a serious contender for the championship.

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