Choco Mucho staged a stunning comeback from two sets down to edge PLDT, 20-25, 19-25, 25-15, 25-20, 18-16, in Game 1 of the 2024-25 PVL All-Filipino Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday at the PhilSports Arena.
The Flying Titans are now one win away from advancing to the next round.
Sisi Rondina led the charge, scoring eight of her 31 points in the deciding set, including the match-winning attack.
“Walang tumitigil hangga’t ‘di pa tapos,” Rondina said, emphasizing her team’s resilience.
She filled the stat sheet with 29 attacks, two aces, 15 digs, and 12 receptions. Her duel with PLDT’s Savi Davison lived up to expectations, with Davison delivering 25 points and 19 receptions in the five-set thriller.
Choco Mucho held a 12-8 lead in Set 5, but PLDT, fueled by Davison and Fiolla Ceballos, forced a tight race to 18. However, a costly service error by Dell Palomata handed the Flying Titans a 17-16 edge before Rondina sealed the deal with an off-the-block kill.
“‘Yun lang talaga ‘yung nasa isipan ko kanina. Contribute lang nang contribute, tulong lang kung saan ako pwedeng tumulong,” Rondina shared.
“Lumabas din talaga ‘yung kagustuhan ng lahat na manalo, ‘yung teamwork, saka ‘yung tiwala sa mga coaches and sa mga teammates ko,” she added.
Sarge Royse Tubino contributed 20 points, while Isa Molde recorded 11 points and 10 receptions. Setter Mars Alba earned Player of the Game honors with 16 excellent sets.
For PLDT, Erika Santos scored 14, Ceballos added 11, and Majoy Baron finished with 10.
The highly anticipated Rondina-Davison showdown continues in Game 2 on Thursday, March 20, at the same venue. First serve is at 4 p.m.