By Leobert Julian A. de la Peña
The Choco Mucho Flying Titans bounced back from a disappointing loss to the PLDT High-Speed Hitters and vented its ire on the Akari Chargers, 25-17, 25-22, 25-21, in the ongoing Premier Volleyball League (PVL) All-Filipino Conference on March 23, 2024, at the Ynares Center.
Seeking to redeem themselves after a five-set defeat that tainted their PVL record, the Flying Titans were all systems go from the get-go and showed a much-improved floor coverage defense against Akari.
Aside from their defensive adjustments, the Flying Titans learned a lot from their PLDT loss especially not affording to have a slow start in the PVL.
With their early massive scoring rally, Choco Mucho just ramped up the intensity to clinch the first set and head to the following frame with a commanding lead.
However, the Chargers fought back midway through the second set, relying on their solid middle blocking that derailed Choco Mucho’s aim of further increasing their cushion.
When the match went to a back-and-forth affair, Sisi Rondina answered the call for the Flying Titans and delivered the much-needed hits that steered Choco Mucho to a hard-earned second-set victory.
It was then all Choco Mucho in the final set as their signature quick 1-2 attack sets delivered by setter Mars Alba worked to perfection and posted tons of problems for the Akari defense.
Rondina top-scored for the Flying Titans after dropping 13 points built from 12 successful attacks to go alongside two service aces and a block.
Meanwhile, Choco Mucho’s star middle blocker Maddie Madayag unleashed her “Madzilla” form and contributed eight points and three blocks.
Alba orchestrated the Choco Mucho offense with 14 excellent sets to go alongside four points, three excellent receptions, and a service ace.
