Petro Gazz, Choco Mucho seek final berths in PVL
Petro Gazz and Choco Mucho hope to build on the momentum of their thrilling come-from-behind victories as they seek to arrange a titular showdown in the Premier Volleyball League All-filipino Conference at the Philsports Arena in Pasig on Thursday, May 2.
The Angels displayed resilience in overturning a set deficit against the Chery Tiggo Crossovers, clinching a 20-25, 25-21, 25-15, 25-16 victory. Similarly, the Flying Titans staged an impressive comeback from two sets down to upend the Creamline Cool Smashers for the first time in 13 face-offs, 13-25, 19-25, 25-21, 2520, 18-16, in the opener of the single round semis before a packed crowd at the Pasig venue on Tuesday, April 30.
They switch opponents this time with the Angels battling the Cool Smashers at 4 p.m. and the Flying Titans colliding with the Crossovers at 6 p.m. Victories by top seed Petro Gazz and No. 2 Choco Mucho will propel them to the finals while Creamline and Chery Tiggo will duel for the bronze.
Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin expressed his confidence in his wards’ winning mindset while stressing the importance of hard work and determination on the court. Despite facing a dominant opponent in the Cool Smashers, Alinsunurin believes in his team’s ability to make timely adjustments and rise to the occasion.
The Cool Smashers looked poised to extending their 12-game dominance of the Flying Titans when they took the first two sets in lopsided fashions. But Sisi Rondina and Royse Tubino found their rhythm in the crucial third frame, leading to the team’s fourth match that went the distance and the historic win.
Meanwhile, despite a convincing victory over the Crossovers, the Angels remain cautious of the Cool Smashers’ formidable lineup. Top spiker Brooke Van Sickle acknowledged the strength and defensive prowess of all competing teams, emphasizing the need for aggression and precision in their gameplay.