Cignal finds its rhythm again as Katrin Trebichavska, Erika Santos lead charge past Akari in PVL Reinforced Conference

Cignal isn’t just surviving the grind of the Reinforced Conference — it’s starting to rediscover its rhythm when it matters most.

With its playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Super Spikers turned to their trusted tandem of Katrin Trebichavska and Erika Santos, who powered them past Akari, 25-21, 23-25, 25-20, 25-20, to open Pool D play of the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference on Thursday night at the Filoil EcoOil Centre.

After weeks of inconsistency, Cignal finally found the right mix of composure and chemistry. Trebichavska — the Slovak import who has become the emotional compass of this team — dropped 25 points on 22 attacks, two blocks, and one ace, while also hustling for nine digs and seven receptions. 

Santos, the PVL on Tour MVP, delivered another complete performance with 19 points, including three blocks and three aces.

The win pushed the Super Spikers to 3-3, strengthening their quarterfinals bid and proving that their identity lies not in firepower alone, but in the balance between grit and precision.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

CAME THROUGH WITH THE SUPER VIBE

It’s an awesome second round start for Katrin Trebichavska and the Cignal Super Spikers as they claim a four-set victory over the Akari Chargers in Pool C of the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference!#PVL2025 #TheHeartofVolleyball pic.twitter.com/iQeAmX6vOW

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) November 6, 2025

“It wasn’t an easy match. Akari pushed us hard in every set,” said a relieved coach Shaq delos Santos after the game. “But what mattered was how the team stayed calm and executed.”

Indeed, the turning point came late in the fourth set when Akari nearly forced a decider. Camille Victoria’s back-to-back aces slashed Cignal’s lead to just two, 19-21.

 But Trebichavska answered with poise — hammering consecutive kills to restore control before Ishie Lalongisip and Jackie Acuña sealed the win with back-to-back points.

Rose Doria-Aquino added 12 points anchored by four blocks, while Lalongisip chipped in 11 points and 10 excellent receptions, providing crucial stability on the wings. Gel Cayuna kept the offense humming with 18 excellent sets, while team captain Dawn Catindig anchored the backline with 25 digs.

For Akari, it was another night of frustration despite flashes of brilliance. American import Annie Mitchem carried the scoring load with 22 points and 12 receptions, while Fifi Sharma held her ground at the net with 13 points and three blocks. Justine Jazareno continued her strong defensive campaign with 16 receptions and 13 digs.

The Chargers dropped to 3-3, still inside the top eight but suddenly vulnerable after back-to-back losses. They’ll try to stop the skid when they face Nxled next Thursday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

As for Cignal, the real test is only beginning — with matches against unbeaten ZUS Coffee (Nov. 13) and defending champion Creamline (Nov. 18) looming. But if Thursday night was any indication, the Super Spikers are ready to dig deep and fight their way into the next round.

Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

  Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and be part of a growing community of passionate basketball fans!