In a game that tested their mettle, Choco Mucho showcased remarkable grit and resilience, overcoming a daunting two-set deficit to snatch Game 1 of the 2024-25 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference quarterfinals against PLDT last Saturday.
The Flying Titans found themselves in dire straits as the High Speed Hitters delivered an early onslaught, claiming the first two sets with ease and putting Choco Mucho on the brink of defeat. But rather than crumble under pressure, the Rebisco-backed squad rallied together, displaying poise and determination that ignited an unforgettable comeback.
Fueled by the unrelenting fire of Sisi Rondina, along with key contributions from Royse Tubino and Mars Alba, the Flying Titans flipped the script and claimed a thrilling 20-25, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 18-16 victory to seize control of the best-of-three series.
Rondina, the heart and soul of Choco Mucho, admitted they knew they were at a disadvantage early on, but they refused to waver.
"Alam namin minsan, dehado kami. Pero andoon pa rin ‘yung composure and adjustment na ginagawa namin pagdating sa laro. Lalo na kapag pitpitan talaga. Wala lang talagang tumitigil hangga’t ‘di pa tapos. Ganun ‘yung attitude sa laro kanina," Rondina shared.
The former league MVP delivered an awe-inspiring performance, dropping 31 points, 15 excellent digs, and 12 excellent receptions in a commanding display of heart and hustle.
"Yun lang talaga ‘yung nasa isipan ko kanina. Contribute lang nang mag-contribute, tulong lang kung saan ako pwedeng tumulong. Lumabas din talaga ‘yung kagustuhan ng lahat na manalo, ‘yung teamwork, saka ‘yung tiwala sa mga coaches at sa mga teammates ko," Rondina added.
The Flying Titans' turnaround was sparked by key adjustments from head coach Dante Alinsunurin, who inserted Alba, Tubino, and Maika Ortiz to stabilize the squad. Tubino stepped up in the wake of Dindin Santiago-Manabat's early exit due to knee discomfort, contributing 20 crucial points to support Rondina's scoring outburst.
Ortiz, a veteran middle blocker, reinforced Choco Mucho's net defense while adding three points to her name. Meanwhile, Alba energized the team with her steady playmaking and vocal leadership, tallying 16 excellent sets along with three points.
"Simula nung nag-third set, iba na ‘yung tao. Pero nakinig lang ako pagkapasok nila Mars na tiwala muna, pasensya muna. Ako kanina, sabi ko nga hangga’t ‘di sila nananalo ng tatlong sets, kaya naming bawiin," Rondina said.
