PVL: Mars Alba determined to contribute more for Choco Mucho

Choco Mucho setter Mars Alba in the PVL All-Filipino Conference. –MARLO CUETO/INQUIRER.net

MANILA, Philippines — Mars Alba is honored to be donning her favorite color as she shone brightly in her first game as Choco Mucho Flying Titan.

Alba started in her first game for Choco Mucho and provided 18 excellent sets on top of two points in their 25-12, 25-22, 25-18 victory over Nxled in the 2024 PVL All-Filipino Conference on Thursday at FilOil EcoOil Centre in San Juan City.

“I’m thankful to be given this kind of opportunity. I will continue following our coach’s system since I’m new to this team. I will give everything I can contribute to this team,” said Alba.

SCHEDULE: PVL All-Filipino Conference 2024 

The former F2 Logistics setter admitted it’s been a tough task  filling in the shoes of fan-favorite setter Deanna Wong, who sat out due to a minor knee injury, and running the plays of the Flying Titans who are coming off a breakthrough Finals stint.

But Alba is taking that challenge in stride.

“There’s pressure but I used it as a challenge because it’s not hard to fill in this position given that last conference, they were the silver medalist. I’m also thankful to Deanna because she guided me throughout this game,” she said.

READ: PVL: Deanna Wong says Mars Alba ‘can lead’ Choco Mucho

Choco Mucho coach Dante Alinsunurin is grateful to have the Season 85 Finals MVP and Best Setter from La Salle after F2 Logistics’ disbandment.

“She’s going to be a big part of the team and our goals,” said Alinsunurin. “She’s getting [our system], but we just have to correct some things. But she’s slowly getting what the coaches what, especially coach Jessie (Lopez). Hopefully, we get better.”

Alba was grateful for the opportunity and trust given to her by her coaches and teammates but she seeks to improve her playmaking.

“I still have a lot to adjust given that I’m new to this team and I’m still getting use to coach’s system. I’m getting there,” said Alba.