GAMES TODAY
4 p.m. – Choco Mucho vs Nxled
6:30 p.m. – Cignal vs ZUS Coffee
CHOCO Mucho and Cignal brace for crucial matchups today, Thursday, in their quest to solidify their positions in the standings and build momentum going into the knockout phase of the Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig.
Currently tied for third with a 6-3 record, the Flying Titans go into their 4 p.m. clash against the Nxled Chameleons with confidence, having won four straight matches.
But they remain cautious, knowing the Chameleons have rediscovered their winning ways with a four-set triumph over the Galeries Tower Highrisers last weekend.
Led by an explosive core featuring Sisi Rondina, Dindin Manabat, Isa Molde, Cherry Nunag and Des Cheng, Choco Mucho has proven to be a formidable contender. Its balanced offense, complemented by solid floor defense and blocking, makes it the overwhelming favorite over the Chameleons.
“’Yun nga, teamwork. Hindi naman kasi isang tao lang makakapanalo ng game… Happy, kasi unti-unti, we’re reaching the goal na gusto naming marating, so masaya kami na ganito,” said Flying Titans setter Deanna Wong.
Nxled (1-8) is looking to make the most of its remaining games despite being out of contention for the upper half of the 12-team standings. With no realistic chance of securing a higher seeding, the Chameleons are instead focused on gaining experience and momentum, especially with their final prelims assignment looming against the No. 2-ranked Petro Gazz Angels (8-1).
Cignal, also toting a 6-3 slate, is set to battle ZUS Coffee (4-5) at 6:30 p.m., with both teams eyeing crucial victories for different reasons. The HD Spikers are looking to strengthen their hold on third place, while the Thunderbelles aim to remain in the hunt for a Top 6 finish.
Despite roster setbacks after the departure of Ces Molina and Riri Meneses, Cignal has managed to stay competitive. After back-to-back losses to top teams Creamline and PLDT, the HD Spikers regained their footing with a dominant victory over the Capital1 Solar Spikers last week.
Led by a core group of seasoned players, Cignal will again bank on its reliable hitters and steady defense to secure another win. However, the Thunderbelles of ZUS Coffee remain a dangerous opponent, boasting a blend of youth and experience that has kept them competitive throughout the season.
Despite falling to Petro Gazz in four sets last week, ZUS Coffee has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly with emerging stars like Thea Gagate, Michelle Gamit, Gayle Pascual and Chinnie Arroyo. Their youthful energy and aggressive style of play could pose problems for a Cignal squad still adjusting to roster changes.
Providing leadership and composure for the Thunderbelles are seasoned veterans Jovelyn Gonzaga and Chai Troncoso, both of whom bring years of experience to the squad. Another key player to watch is Kate Santiago, who erupted for 21 points against Petro Gazz. If she can sustain that level of offensive production, ZUS Coffee may just pull off an upset against Cignal.
