Defense seems to be the Choco Mucho Flying Titans' current calling card in the PVL All-Filipino Conference, with a block party in the front and Thang Ponce in the back.
The Choco Mucho Flying Titans are set for a high-stakes clash against the undefeated Cignal HD Spikers in the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at the PhilSports Arena.
Riding the momentum of a 2-1 record, the Flying Titans have showcased strong performances, including a recent four-set triumph over the Capital1 Solar Spikers.
Now, they face their toughest test yet against Cignal, one of the league's early frontrunners.
Alas Pilipinas standout Sisi Rondina continues to spearhead Choco Mucho’s attack, ranking third in the league with 60 points.
But it can't be just Sisi alone, as she barely rested from her national team duties.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Sisi Rondina admits being fatigued after Alas Pilipinas stint amid Choco Mucho run]
In this conference, Rondina is complemented by Kat Tolentino, the league’s sixth top scorer with 45 points, providing a balanced offensive arsenal.
The Flying Titans’ blocking has been their calling card, with Tolentino and Cherry Nunag leading the charge, tallying 10 blocks each.
The team recently registered an impressive 22 blocks in their win against the Galeries Tower Highrisers, underscoring their defensive prowess at the net.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Where does Choco Mucho’s 22-block game rank among PH women's volleyball records?]
On the backline, libero Thang Ponce has been a steady presence, ranking second in digs and third in receives with a 40.91% efficiency rate.
Playmaker Mars Alba has also stepped up in the absence of Deanna Wong, ranking sixth among setters and ensuring smooth ball distribution for the Titans.
Coach Dante Alinsunurin though wants more from the Flying Titans if they want to return to the finals.
[ALSO READ: PVL: Choco Mucho still a work in progress for Finals contention, says Dante Alinsunurin]
A win against Cignal would solidify Choco Mucho's status as a serious contender in this conference, while also snapping the HD Spikers’ unbeaten run.
[Editor's note: This article was generated by a member of the One Sports Digital team using AI, and then checked by the staff to ensure accuracy.]