Rookies step up as Flying Titans soar
With a huge chunk of its stars serving the national team, Choco Mucho got the opportunity to test its newcomers.
And coach Dante Alinsunurin liked what he saw.
“From the moment they joined our practices, they made an impact because they filled in the slots [of the absent players],” Alinsunurin said after the Flying Titans used a strong third-set performance to stave off Galeries Tower, 25-19, 13-25, 25-22, 25-20, and jump-start its PVL on Tour campaign strong on Saturday at Batangas City Sports Center.
“You could [also] see their energy on the court. Even if they’re not vocal, you can see how much their energy helps the team. Whenever they’re on the court, the team’s dynamics change. We’re able to adjust faster, and I think they’re the type who just play their game every time they step on the court, taking the pressure off the others.”
Alinsunurin was referring to rookies Jen Villegas and Ayesha Juegos, who spelled the difference in the last two sets, scoring seven points each.
The Flying Titans were playing mines star Sisi Rondina as well as Maddie Madayag and setters Mars Alba and Tia Andaya due to their Alas Pilipinas duties. But with Isa Molde and new captain Des Cheng also stepping up, Choco Mucho tabbed its first win in Pool A.
Molde finished with 20 points built on 19 kills and a block, while Cheng delivered 13 points, including the crucial spikes that sealed their pivotal third-set win and had 11 digs and five excellent receptions.
“I think it’s really because I trust my teammates so much. I know they’ll deliver, so it hasn’t been hard for me to handle my responsibility on the team because they’re always there to support us,” said Molde.
Alinsunurin, too, knew his new players would deliver.
“I wasn’t surprised by how they played because I know what they’re capable of, and I know they can still do so much more for the team since this is just our first game,” he said.
