Erika Santos uses pro-Creamline crowd as motivation to lead Cignal to the PVL semifinals 

The Cignal Super Spikers secured their spot in the semifinals of the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference after surviving a heart-stopping, five-set thriller against the Creamline Cool Smashers. The match, held on Thursday, March 26, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, ended 21-25, 26-24, 25-18, 22-25, 15-17, in favor of Cignal during the Qualifying Round.

The encounter showcased not only skill and star power but also the resilience and tactical discipline that have become hallmarks of the Super Spikers. Cignal’s victory over one of the league’s perennial contenders emphasized both the team’s depth and their ability to execute under pressure. With the semifinals now within reach, the win also serves as a confidence booster as the tournament enters its decisive stages.

Leading the charge for Cignal was Erika Santos, who delivered a spectacular all-around performance. Santos finished with 26 points, including 23 attacks, two blocks, and an ace, repeatedly stepping up at critical junctures to keep the Super Spikers within striking distance. Her ability to perform in high-pressure moments proved pivotal in a match that swung back and forth between the two elite squads.

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The former University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP) standout also revealed that the vocal, pro-Creamline crowd, which filled the arena with energy and jeers, served as added motivation rather than a distraction.

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

“For me naman, masarap maglaro na ‘yung crowd parang nasa kabilang team lahat – so for me, ginawa ko siyang motivation. Ginawa ko siyang motivation kasi may mga fans na nagbu-boo or what, tapos nagkakapuntos ka, parang nakaka-proud lang na ‘bakit ang daming doubters, ito ako,” Santos said in the postmatch press conference.

“Parang tine-take ko lang siya as motivation instead na tumiklop sa maraming tao. It feels good na maglaro with that crowd,” she added, underscoring her competitive mindset and poise under pressure.

Beyond Santos, the match was a showcase of Cignal’s cohesive team dynamics and strategic preparation. The Super Spikers displayed remarkable composure, particularly during critical stretches of the match where momentum could easily have swung in Creamline’s favor. The team’s disciplined rotations, quick transitions, and effective communication allowed them to execute key plays and capitalize on opportunities despite the hostile atmosphere.

The win also reflected the team’s commitment to improvement after earlier matches in the conference. Adjustments in defensive schemes, serve-receive formations, and attack strategies demonstrated that Cignal’s coaching staff and players have been closely analyzing opponents and fine-tuning their approach for high-stakes matches.

With this victory, Cignal now turns its focus to the semifinals, where even tougher opponents await. The team’s current form, combined with the confidence gained from outlasting Creamline, positions the Super Spikers as a legitimate contender for the championship. If their performance in this thriller is any indication, Cignal is peaking at the perfect time, blending individual brilliance with disciplined teamwork in pursuit of PVL glory.

Fans can expect the Super Spikers to carry this momentum forward, relying on their depth, experience, and the fire ignited by matches like this as they take the next step toward what could be a historic championship run.

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