Molina lead Daquis-less Cignal past PLDT

MANILA, Philippines — Ces Molina came out in MVP form as she powered a Rachel Daquis-less Cignal to a 25-16, 20-25, 25-21, 25-20 victory over sister squad PLDT last night at the start of the PVL’s second All-Filipino Conference at the Filoil EcoOil Arena.

Months after claiming her first MVP plum in the Reinforced Conference, Molina was still at it, unleashing 20 points all on attacks as the HD Spikers got off to a triumphant start in the tourney.

Vanessa Gandler and Toni Rose Basas joined the attacking spree by chipping in 12 points apiece that helped fill the massive void left by Daquis, who is in the United States attending a coaching seminar.

Savannah Dawn Davison paced the High Speed Spikers with 17 points.

Earlier, newcomer Nxled bared its fangs as it routed Gerflor, 25-18, 25-14, 25-19, to launch its ambitious campaign.

Lycha Ebon, soaring high and free, led all hitters with 14 points while former Ateneo star Jhoanna Maraguinot scattered 11 points as the Chameleons debuted with a bang.

Ebon and Maraguinot got things done on defense up front as well as the pair spearheaded the block party with two apiece.

Nxled’s Japanese coach Taka Minowa later emphasized the importance of defense as the key to success.

“We’re more focused on defense,” said Minowa, husband of Filipina volley star Jaja Santiago.

“Our fun in Japan is playing defense,” he added.

Defense was Nxled’s ticket to success on this one as it dominated Gerflor from start to finish.

Pia Sarmiento paced the Defenders with nine hits.

Nxled seeks to sustain its hot start as it clashes with league powerhouse F2 Logistics on Oct. 24 at the Ynares Center in Antipolo.

Gerflor, for its part, will try to rebound from this loss as it clashes with Petro Gazz Saturday in Batangas City.