PVL: Caitlin Viray drops career best, Choco Mucho ends bid in 7th
Choco Mucho Flying Titans during a classification game against Chery Tiggo in the PVL Invitational Conference. MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines — Caitlin Viray delivered her best game to lead Choco Mucho to a sweep of Chery Tiggo, 25-20, 26-24, 25-15, for seventh place in the 2023 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Invitational Conference on Saturday at Philsports Arena.
Viray unleashed her career-high 22 points, scoring most of her points in the third set, where they led by as many as 10, 18-8, and never looked back to end the tournament on a high note.
“I’m happy I was able to help my team. I’m just repaying the trust given by my coaches,” said Viray in Filipino after pouring in 17 attacks, three blocks, and two aces.
The University of Santo Tomas standout had a breakthrough performance this midseason tournament, embracing the starting role in lieu of Kat Tolentino and averaging 11.7 in six games.
“There is pressure but I chose to focus on what can I do for my team and what can I improve. I’m very happy I helped my team,” she said.
Sisi Rondina ended her first PVL tournament with 15 points on top of nine digs and six excellent receptions. Setter Deanna Wong dished out 14 excellent sets, as Isa Molde scored five filling in for Des Cheng, who rested in the classification match.
“Our mindset for this game is to win our last game. Because it is important for the next conference to boost our conference,” said Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin after winning four of their six matches this tournament. “It was a slow start for us but I told my players to talk to each other, guide each other, and make the necessary adjustments. Good thing, everyone connected.”
Choco Mucho overcame a 3-10 start in the opening set before drawing the first blood. The Flying Titans blew a 24-22 lead in the second frame after Eya Laure’s attack and Imee Hernandez’s block on Rondina to force a deuce.
Cherry Nunag nailed a quick attack to regain the match point, 25-24, followed by Mylene Paat’s attack error to take a two-set lead.
Paat led the Crossovers with 15 points off 10 attacks, three blocks, and two aces. Pauline Gaston chipped in 12 markers, while Eya Laure finished her first conference with 11 points and 14 excellent receptions.
Cherry Tiggo ended its campaign with two straight losses, finishing 2-2 in the pool phase and losing the classification match ending up in 8th place.
