Facing her former F2 Logistics teammates and La Salle seniors, Mars Alba showed no hesitation in flaunting her signature swagger during Choco Mucho’s thrilling come-from-behind victory over PLDT in Game 1 of the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals.
Alba, to the delight of the roaring 3,408 fans at the Philsports Arena, confidently struck her trademark pose after executing surprise 1-2 attacks in the fourth and fifth sets. Her energy and confidence fueled the Flying Titans’ comeback from a daunting 0-2 deficit to stun the High Speed Hitters.
The former UAAP Finals MVP replaced starting setter Deanna Wong at the start of the third frame and wasted no time in sparking Choco Mucho's surge. Alba's steady hands and creative playmaking provided the boost her squad needed to turn the tide in their favor.
Alba admitted that facing familiar faces — including her former Cargo Movers teammates Majoy Baron, Kianna Dy, and Kim Fajardo — played a role in her fearless performance.
“Masaya kasi nakakalaban ko sila. Parang pag nag-angas ako feeling ko okay lang, hindi ako maba-bash,” Alba said, recalling the moments she confidently posed twice in front of Baron.
The 25-year-old playmaker revealed that she often catches up with her former teammates off the court, sharing playful banter before their quarterfinal showdown.
“Inaano nila ako, ‘Oh, huwag mo galingan.’ Kidding aside, laro talaga, focus talaga. Pagka-laro focus talaga, walang Ate-Ate,” she added.
Alba finished with 16 excellent sets and three points, anchoring the Flying Titans' incredible fightback.
Acknowledging her teammates' vital role, Alba credited their trust and collective effort for her strong performance.
“For me, siyempre hindi ko rin naman magagawa ‘yun without my teammates. Una palang pagpasok ko nung third set sabi ko, ‘Ates, tiwala lang. Tiwala sa isa’t isa kasi kaya naman eh.’ So, kailangan lang tibay sa loob ng court,” said Alba.
With her Game 1 heroics in the books, Alba is focused on sustaining her momentum in Game 2 to help Choco Mucho secure a semifinal spot.
“Ang pinaghahawakan lang namin, nandito na kami. Parang huwag na natin bitawan kasi sayang lang lahat nung pinaghirapan nung prelims kung dito lang bibitaw,” Alba emphasized, eager to finish the job in their upcoming match.
