PLDT secured the third seed in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference semifinals with a thrilling win over Choco Mucho on Thursday night, thanks in large part to the efforts of Mika Reyes.
Reyes played a crucial role in the tight third set, preventing Choco Mucho from gaining a set advantage and ultimately helping her team to a 21-25, 25-23, 25-23, 25-16 victory over the Flying Titans.
Reyes broke a 23-all deadlock with a running attack and then hammered down a quick to put the High Speed Hitters ahead, 2-1, before leading the team to a win in the fourth frame. She finished the game with 18 points on 13 attacks, four blocks, and an ace, helping PLDT finish with a 6-2 win-loss record and setting up a semifinal clash with Petro Gazz.
Speaking after the game, Reyes emphasized the importance of teamwork and communication in securing the victory.
"We were all reminding each other to just get one point because we didn't want to immediately think that we will lose that set," she said. "I think the reminders from each other really helped us to push for that one point."
Looking ahead to the semifinals, Reyes acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead but expressed confidence in her team's ability to adapt and perform at their best. "Sabi nga ni coach, gusto nilang bumawi samin. And kailangan namin i-maximize yung day, yung tomorrow, para makapagrecover and makapagplano kung ano yung gagawin namin sa Sabado so, magiging maganda yung laban," she said.
Reyes also highlighted the importance of adapting to the different systems introduced by their new coaches and maximizing their preparation time ahead of the semifinals.
"I think in all aspects, especially now that our new coaches are applying a different system. So, we are trying to adjust quickly. We don't have any more time because we are already in the semifinals, so we need to adapt as soon as possible," she said.
The High Speed Hitters will be looking to build on their strong performance against Choco Mucho and advance to the championship round.
