Choco Mucho pulled off a gutsy Game 2 win over PLDT to punch their ticket to the 2024-25 PVL semifinals—thanks to a surprise tactical switch that paid off big.
With the fifth set tied at 10-9, the Flying Titans inserted Deanna Wong while shifting setter Mars Alba to the opposite position, covering for the injured Dindin Santiago-Manabat. The unusual move gave Choco Mucho a dual-setter look and more attack options.
Alba, who had been quietly training as a hitter, delivered under pressure. Her clutch cut shot broke a 13-all tie, setting up Sisi Rondina’s game-winning spike.
“I thought I was being subbed out,” Alba admitted. “But it worked—we trusted each other.”
Choco Mucho joins Akari in the Final Four, while Creamline and Petro Gazz look to secure their own semis spots this weekend.
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