In a thrilling encounter at the Philsports Arena, the Choco Mucho Flying Titans fought valiantly but fell short against the formidable F2 Logistics in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference. The team's star player, Sisi Rondina, displayed unwavering determination and remained in high spirits, emphasizing the lessons learned from this heartbreaking five-set loss.
Despite Choco Mucho having the game seemingly within their grasp, an eleventh-hour challenge by the Cargo Movers' coaching staff allowed F2 Logistics to snatch a 21-25, 25-17, 17-25, 25-21, 18-16 victory. However, Rondina, the dynamic 5-foot-9 dynamo, refused to label it as a loss and instead emphasized the team's growth.
Addressing reporters after the match, Rondina stated, "Sabi ko nga po sa mga teammates ko kanina sa dugout, hindi kami natalo. Natuto kami" (I told my teammates earlier in the dugout that we didn't lose. We learned). Her impressive performance of 28 points, 16 excellent digs, and 15 excellent receptions demonstrated her commitment to constant improvement.
Rondina acknowledged the value of the experience gained from the grueling five-set encounter.
"It's a good thing because we saw and learned something from today's game, and we know we can do it. We just fell short. I'm really proud because our composure, confidence, and focus were on point," she expressed with conviction.
The Flying Titans had a golden opportunity to secure victory in the fourth set, but F2 Logistics displayed great resilience, forcing the match into a decisive fifth set and ultimately seizing the win from Choco Mucho's grasp.
Furthermore, the team faced additional challenges when key players, Des Cheng and Cherry Nunag, succumbed to unfortunate injuries during the match. Cheng was carried off the court due to heat exhaustion, while Nunag battled cramps in the crucial fifth set. Despite these setbacks, Rondina refused to use them as excuses, emphasizing that F2 Logistics earned the victory through their exceptional performance.
"We won't make excuses. Honestly, we won't attribute it to those things because they are minor issues, and we're players. When it comes to situations like that, we need to manage them. F2 really worked hard for it," Rondina explained, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability.
With a firm belief that this loss will ultimately make them a stronger team, Rondina and the Flying Titans now have a well-deserved break before their next match against Petro Gazz on Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. This brief hiatus will allow them to regroup, recharge, and showcase their improved performance as they strive for redemption.
