Photo: PVL
The Nxled Chameleons succumbed to the Cignal HD Spikers in three sets, 25-27, 20-25, 20-25, to close out their PVL 2024 Reinforced Conference campaign at the FilOil EcoOil Centre, Tuesday.
Nxled concluded the conference with a 1-7 record, winning their debut match but subsequently enduring seven consecutive losses in the preliminaries.
Nxled’s American import, Meegan Hart, led the Chameleons with 16 points, including 14 attacks and two blocks. Jhoana Maraguinot added 15 points and recorded 10 excellent receptions, while Chiara Permentilla and Jai Atienza contributed six points apiece.
The Chameleons had a strong start to the match, opening the first set with a 5-0 lead. They kept the HD Spikers at bay and were on their way to secure the opening set at 24-22, before the latter unleashed a 5-1 run to steal the first.
With momentum on their side, Cignal never took its foot off the gas pedal in the second and third sets, as MJ Perez and Ces Molina spearheaded the attack to sweep Nxled and secure their seventh victory against one loss.
Perez paced the HD Spikers with 17 points, 10 excellent digs, and seven excellent receptions, while Molina posted 11 points and five excellent receptions.
Their record may suggest otherwise, but the Chameleons showed significant improvement throughout the conference, particularly in their last three matches. Going through another transition phase, team captain Jaja Maraguinot and the rest of the team showcased a glimpse of Nxled’s potential. The Chameleons will undoubtedly be stronger in the next.
