Choco Mucho, known for its resilience and fighting spirit, overcame a determined Galeries Tower side in a thrilling five-set battle, clinching a 27-29, 25-20, 25-19, 17-25, 15-12 decision in the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference preliminaries at the FilOil EcoOil Arena in San Juan on Thursday.
Kat Tolentino delivered a stellar 27-point performance, including seven blocks, leading the Flying Titans to their first win of the season. Her explosive offense was complemented by rookie Lorraine Pecaña's imposing net defense and a clutch finish from Sisi Rondina, sealing the two-hour, 37-minute marathon with her dynamic play.
Rondina, who initially struggled to find her tempo, took charge in the endgame, delivering her signature powerful hits, impressive hang-time, and adaptability, which disrupted Galeries Tower's defensive setup. She scored the final two points, including a kill on the right side, to cap off the win.
The victory evened Choco Mucho's record at 1-1, bouncing back from a tough four-set loss to Petro Gazz last weekend. Galeries Tower, however, fell to 0-2, though the Highrisers showed flashes of strength and resolve.
Reflecting on her standout performance, Tolentino said, “I feel tired but happy to be back helping the team. We just trusted each other and kept fighting.”
Tolentino paired her offensive prowess with 10 excellent digs, earning top honors for her all-around performance.
Choco Mucho faced several challenges throughout the match, including a tense fifth set where they initially trailed 0-2. However, they rallied back to take an 8-5 lead, bolstered by Pecaña's timely blocks, which shifted momentum in the Flying Titans’ favor.
Although Galeries Tower closed in at 10-11 after an attack error from Choco Mucho, Pecaña, who also finished with an impressive seven-block effort, and substitute Des Cheng managed to create a three-point cushion with another block and a service ace.
After Galeries Tower's Ysa Jimenez saved a match point, Rondina banged in the match-winning kill on a set by Mars Alba, ending the intense match and securing Choco Mucho's victory.
Rondina ended up with 19 points and eight excellent receptions, while Cherry Nunag, Pecaña, and Isa Molde added 14, 10, and seven points, respectively. The Flying Titans narrowly edged out Galeries Tower in spikes, 61-60, but dominated the net, 22-11, showcasing their formidable net presence.
Despite the loss, the Highrisers walked off with heads held high, proving they are a team to watch in the league organized by Sports Vision.
Rookie Jewel Encarnacion led the Highrisers with 18 points, while Jimenez, France Ronquillo, and Julia Coronel contributed 13, 11, and 10 points, respectively. The Highrisers displayed a much-improved offense and showed great promise, determined to make their mark in the league.
The Flying Titans are still finding their rhythm and groove, but as Tolentino put it: “This is just the beginning. We have so much to give, and we're going to keep working hard.”
