In a collision of emotions and volleyballs, the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference Finals witnessed an epic showdown between sister teams Choco Mucho and Creamline, leaving fans on the edge of their seats and players with hearts heavy with both pride and disappointment.
For Choco Mucho's team captain, Maddie Madayag, the rollercoaster of emotions hit hard as their dreams of clinching the championship shattered in a second-straight defeat to their formidable rivals, the Creamline Cool Smashers.
With the series hanging in the balance, the Flying Titans had seized the momentum with a 2-1 set lead, tantalizingly close to forcing a decisive showdown. But fate had other plans, dealing them a gut-wrenching blow in a five-set thriller that ended in a heartbreakingly close loss, 25-20, 20-25, 25-22, 22-25, 11-15, at the iconic Smart Araneta Coliseum on a somber Sunday evening.
Tears welled in Madayag's eyes as she grappled with the pain of defeat, expressing, “Naiyak lang din ako kasi masakit na masakit talaga. Kung na-extend pa namin yung series, lalaban talaga kami at lalaban para makuha yung championship."
The road to the finals had been riddled with obstacles for Choco Mucho. Losing key players like Aduke Ogunsanya and Kat Tolentino to injuries early in the season, and starting without Des Cheng, the team faced adversity head-on.
Yet, they rallied together, showcasing resilience and determination that propelled them to consecutive finals appearances.
Madayag couldn't contain her pride for her team, especially considering the adversities they faced. "I'm still very proud of the team, lalo na ang daming nabawasan sa amin no."
Despite the odds stacked against them, the Flying Titans defied expectations, sweeping the semifinals and putting up a valiant fight in the finals.
The absence of key players paved the way for others to step into the spotlight. Players like Sisi Rondina, Thang Ponce, Chery Nunag, Royse Tubino, and Isa Molde rose to the occasion, filling the void left by their injured comrades and contributing to the team's remarkable journey.
Looking ahead, Madayag's spirit remains unbroken, brimming with excitement for the return of her sidelined teammates. “I'm very excited lalo na pag pabalik na yung teammates namin."
Despite the setback, Choco Mucho's resolve remains unwavering as they eagerly anticipate their comeback, ready to resume their pursuit of glory.
