Choco Mucho and Cignal brace for crucial matchups on Thursday in their quest to solidify their positions in the standings and build momentum heading into the knockout phase of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Currently tied for third place with a 6-3 record, the Flying Titans ride into their 4 p.m. clash against the Nxled Chameleons with confidence, having won four straight matches. However, they remain cautious, knowing that the Chameleons have just rediscovered their winning ways with a four-set triumph over the Galeries Tower Highrisers last weekend.
Spearheaded by an explosive core featuring Sisi Rondina, Dindin Manabat, Isa Molde, Cherry Nunag and Des Cheng, Choco Mucho has proven itself to be a formidable contender. Its balanced offense, complemented by solid floor defense and blocking, makes them the overwhelming favorites over the Chameleons.
“Yun nga, teamwork. Hindi naman kasi isang tao lang makakapanalo ng game… Happy, kasi unti-unti, we're reaching the goal na gusto naming marating, so masaya kami na ganito,” said Flying Titans setter Deanna Wong on the key to their win streak.
But Nxled (1-8) is looking to make the most of its remaining games despite being out of contention for the upper half of the 12-team standings. With no realistic chance of securing a higher seeding, the Chameleons are instead focused on gaining experience and momentum, especially with their final prelims assignment looming against the No. 2-ranked Petro Gazz Angels (8-1).
The Chameleons’ recent victory was fueled by EJ Laure, who provided much-needed firepower and leadership, tallying 19 points in their last outing. Her strong presence on the court has injected confidence into her teammates, particularly Chiara Permentilla, May Luna, Jaycel delos Reyes and Lycha Ebon, who combined for 40 points in their last match.
Nxled’s head coach Ettore Guidetti will have to maximize his team’s strengths, particularly in scrambling for points through aggressive defense and transition plays. The Chameleons will need an almost flawless performance to stand a chance against a powerhouse team like Choco Mucho, but with nothing to lose, they could turn into a dangerous spoiler.
“In the beginning, honestly, it was a big gap between us and some of the other teams. Right now, we’ve shortened the gap and I was really waiting the day that finally we can click and win a very high and difficult set. Thanks God that day has come. That day is today, so we are looking for more in the next game and to show everyone that this is nothing but the beginning,” said Guidetti after earning their first win.
Meanwhile, Cignal, also toting a 6-3 slate, is set to battle ZUS Coffee (4-5) at 6:30 p.m., with both teams eyeing crucial victories for different reasons. The HD Spikers are looking to strengthen their hold on third place, while the Thunderbelles aim to remain in the hunt for a Top 6 finish.
Despite roster setbacks following the departure of Ces Molina and Riri Meneses, Cignal has managed to stay competitive. After back-to-back losses to top teams Creamline and PLDT, the HD Spikers regained their footing with a dominant victory over the Capital1 Solar Spikers last week.
Led by a core group of seasoned players, Cignal will once again bank on its reliable hitters and steady defense to secure another win. However, the Thunderbelles of ZUS Coffee remain a dangerous opponent, boasting a blend of youth and experience that has kept them competitive throughout the season.
Despite falling to Petro Gazz in four sets last week, ZUS Coffee has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with emerging stars like Thea Gagate, Michelle Gamit, Gayle Pascual and Chinnie Arroyo. Their youthful energy and aggressive style of play could pose problems for a Cignal squad still adjusting to roster changes.
Providing leadership and composure for the Thunderbelles are seasoned veterans Jovelyn Gonzaga and Chai Troncoso, both of whom bring years of experience to the squad. Another key player to watch is Kate Santiago, who erupted for 21 points against Petro Gazz. If she can sustain that level of offensive production, ZUS Coffee may just pull off an upset against Cignal.
The Thunderbelles’ final preliminary round match against PLDT on Feb. 22 will be a do-or-die encounter in their bid to secure a spot in the next phase of the tournament organized by Sports Vision and backed by Watsons, Arena Plus, Fabriano Appliances, Milcu, iColor & Argan Beauty, Tapa King, Sport Radar and Mikasa.
Following the single-round preliminary phase, all 12 teams will be ranked using the FIVB system, which considers the number of wins, points and set ratios. The knockout round matchups will be determined as follows with the No. 1 seed facing No. 12, No. 2 clashing with No. 11, and so on.
The six winners from these matches will advance to the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, the remaining six teams will battle for the last two playoff spots through a play-in tournament, ensuring a high-stakes path to the next round.
Games are aired live on Pilipinas Live, RPTV, One Sports, One Sports+, and pvl.ph.
