Refreshed PLDT found its second wind in the deciding set after squandering a two-sets-to-none lead, dealing Choco Mucho its first loss in the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference, 25-20, 25-12, 23-25, 11-25, 15-13, at the Filoil EcoOil Centre in San Juan on Tuesday night.
With this rousing win, the well-rested High Speed Hitters forged a five-way tie atop the standings with the Flying Titans, Petro Gazz, Cignal, and Creamline all behind 4-1 win-loss records.
Tied at 12, PLDT rookie Kiesha Bedonia showed maturity beyond her years by delivering a crosscourt hit to push her team ahead by one but Sisi Rondina countered with a spiker of her own for another deadlock, 13-all.
Then Bedonia came through again, this time a hit through the arms of Cherry Nunag for the High Speed Hitters’ match point followed by Flying Titan Kat Tolentino’s hit that went wide to finish the match in two hours and 29 minutes.
Choco Mucho challenged that Tolentino attack for a block touch but it was unsuccessful.
“Hindi namin inisip i-break ‘yung streak nila. Talagang important lang ‘yung game na ‘to para makapasok kami sa goal namin na top 4, kailangan talaga makakuha kami (ng panalo) sa mga top teams,” said PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort.
The Flying Titans rose from the dead in the third, overhauling a 13-18 deficit as Tolentino started the comeback before Rondina provided the finisher to extend the match, 25-23, before having their way completely in the fourth, 25-11, for the decider.
Kim Fajardo delivered an all-around performance with 22 excellent sets and 12 digs while also getting eight points on four attacks, two blocks, and two aces.
Savannah Davison poured in 21 points and 16 receptions for the High Speed Hitters, while Erika Santos produced 14 points.
Reigning MVP Rondina led the Flying Titans with 25 points including four blocks to go with 17 receptions while Tolentino chipped in 18 points.
Thang Ponce also had a spectacular performance of 33 digs and 13 receptions.
Both teams will be back on Saturday at the Ynares Center in Antipolo, Rizal.
PLDT will meet Farm Fresh at the 4 p.m. match while Choco Mucho will collide with Akari at 6 p.m.
