Santos powers Cignal past Akari, into PVL on Tour semis

Games Sunday

(PhilSports Arena)

4 p.m. - Nxled vs. Chery Tiggo

6:30 p.m. - Creamline vs Farm Fresh

MANILA, Philippines — Cignal had a eureka moment when it managed to pluck a gem of a find in Erika Santos.

And the talented Santos gave justice to the franchise’s decision to tab her after she powered the HD Spikers to a 25-20, 25-11, 28-26 victory over the Akari Chargers Thursday and straight to the Premier Volleyball League on Tour semifinals at the PhilSports Arena.

Santos, formerly of PLDT, drilled in a match-best 24 points, including a bazooka-like kill that sealed the quarterfinal triumph and a ticket to the semis where they will face either Nxled or Chery Tiggo.

“I’m thankful to my teammates for giving me their full trust in me,” said Santos, who went on a spiking spree with 22 kills.

It was an emphatic effort for a club that is eyeing its first championship since joining the league four years ago.

Cignal actually came close to winning one twice in the 2022 Reinforced Conference and last year’s Invitational but it ended up short in both occasions and eventually wound up second.

And with Santos at the helm, it appeared the HD Spikers are on course on finally hitting it big this time.