Eya Laure was thrilled to return and play a key role as Choco Mucho snapped a three-game skid in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference. Her return came after sitting out one game due to an abdominal injury.
Laure had aggravated the injury during the Flying Titans’ four-set loss to Creamline on February 10. She missed the team’s heartbreaking five-set defeat to Capital1 last week, which extended their losing streak to three matches following a strong debut win over Akari.
But the 26-year-old winger made her comeback on Thursday night, entering the match in the second set of Choco Mucho’s thrilling five-set victory over Galeries Tower, 26-24, 20-25, 22-25, 25-13, 15-12, at the Filoil Centre.
“Malaking bagay na nakapagpahinga rin ako para makalaro ulit, kasi medyo nag-struggle talaga ako after nung Creamline na game,” said the Alas Pilipinas standout, who joined Choco Mucho after a lengthy layoff caused by contract issues with her former team, Chery Tiggo.
(C) PVL Images
Laure delivered 18 crucial points, powered by 14 attacks, two aces, and two kill blocks, along with seven excellent receptions, helping the Flying Titans escape a potential upset that could have derailed their campaign.
The former University of Santo Tomas star expressed gratitude to the coaching staff and management for prioritizing her health and giving her the chance to rest — a decision that allowed her to make a strong and timely return.
“I just returned to full ball workouts three days ago, and my rhythm is still coming back, but I’m glad I could perform at a high level despite the short preparation,” Laure said.
“Well, the past few days I think kakabalik ko lang din ng bola talaga. Parang three days ago tapos ‘yung bola ko pa, is talagang buong bola so binigyan din ako ng coaches and management ng time to recover din talaga and ayun.”
Beyond her impressive stats, the 5-foot-10 outside spiker provided much-needed leadership on the court, helping steady the team after the Highrisers mounted a strong second-set challenge that shifted momentum.
“Siyempre kasi lagi ko namang sinasabi rin kina Ate kanina na pinaghirapan na maabot sa fifth set, so trabahuhin na namin and i-keep namin ‘yung ano na magtulungan sa isa’t isa,” she said.
Laure and the Flying Titans will aim to make it two consecutive wins when they face Nxled on Tuesday at 4 p.m., at the same venue.
