After a 0-2 start in the PVL Reinforced Conference, Cignal felt it was best to part ways with Greek Eva Chantava.
Playing without an import and top local Vanie Gandler, the Super Spikers took down the PLDT High Speed Hitters in a stunning sweep for their first win on Tuesday night. ‘We (coaches) really had a serious discussion about the situation. In the end, management decided it was best for both sides to part ways for now. We’re very thankful to Eva for all the effort and dedication she gave to the team. That’s all I can say for now regarding our import,’ said Cignal coach Shaq Delos Santos after his squad snapped PLDT’s 15-game winning streak, in Filipino.
Sources told the Inquirer that a new import in Slovakian hitter Katrin Trebichavska is set to replace Chantava, who scored just 23 points combined in her two games with Cignal.
‘Right now, our main focus is on improving our team,’ Delos Santos said. ‘What we saw again today is how happy and eager the players are to win, especially when they’re really enjoying the game together. So for now, that’s where our focus is,’ he added.
Delos Santos did not confirm the signing of Trebichavska, but he did say that ‘there’s someone currently being processed and considered.’ ‘Hopefully, everything works out. For now, our team manager is the one handling all the arrangements,’ he said.
Erika Santos showed her MVP form with 17 points to lead Cignal
‘For me personally, we just stayed focused and composed. We didn’t dwell on the past games. If anything, they motivated us even more to push harder for a win,’ said the PVL on Tour MVP.
Ishie Lalongisip also stepped up with 15 points, 11 excellent receptions, and eight digs.
‘One thing we did was look back at the games we won. We reminded ourselves of how it felt when we were playing well. We also kept reminding each other of what we’re capable of. That helped us gel again as a team in today’s game, and we were able to get the win,’ said the sophomore spiker. Delos Santos said the past two losses and early import change taught their team valuable lessons as they try to build on their first win.
‘What we’re really happy about is that everyone woke up, in a sense. We were all reminded of something important. As a coach, I also realized I needed to talk to the team, motivate them, and remind them of our goal, our purpose, why we’re here,’ he said.
‘I made them realize that there are so many things we should be grateful for, but sometimes we focus too much on the few things that make us feel down.’