Choco Mucho wasted no time reasserting itself in the Premier Volleyball League Reinforced Conference, sweeping Capital1 in straight sets, 33-31, 26-24, 25-23, Tuesday night, October 7,  in Pool A action at the Ynares Center Montalban.

With key players Kat Tolentino and Maddie Madayag back in uniform — one from injury, the other from an overseas stint — the Flying Titans displayed veteran poise in a one-hour, 43-minute grind against the young Solar Spikers. Tolentino led the way with 15 points, while Madayag delivered the decisive blows at the net to finish the match.

“We weren’t nervous, we just had to get into the rhythm,” Tolentino said. “Personally, I didn’t feel anything. I’m just very grateful and happy to be back. Being able to play again is a blessing — winning is just a bonus.”

Veterans shine in tight sets

After a grueling opening frame that stretched to 33-31, Choco Mucho held firm against Capital1’s spirited rallies in the next two sets. The Flying Titans’ trademark net defense surfaced when it mattered most, highlighted by Madayag’s back-to-back blocks to clinch the third set and the match.

Isa Molde supported Tolentino with 14 points, while Lorraine Pecaña added eight. Des Cheng and Cherry Nunag chipped in seven and six markers, respectively. Madayag and Royse Tubino had five each, with Madayag’s final two points sealing the victory.

The Flying Titans dominated at the net with 11 blocks, three more than their opponents, and narrowly led in attacks, 56-51. Coach Dante Alinsunurin’s timely substitutions in clutch moments also played a key role in neutralizing Capital1’s late surges.

Capital1 shows promise despite defeat

Capital1’s top rookie Bella Belen impressed in her debut with 20 points, while Leila Cruz added 18. The Solar Spikers pushed Choco Mucho to the brink in every set, even building a 21-16 lead late in the opener. But their inexperience showed in the crucial stretches, allowing the Flying Titans to rally back.

Tubino’s clutch hits and Capital1’s back-to-back errors in the extended first set gave Choco Mucho the early edge. Despite fending off multiple set points, Capital1 faltered at 31-all, handing the Flying Titans the opening frame and momentum they carried through the sweep.

Capital1 has now lost 16 straight matches since its last win in November 2024, but its rookies’ strong showing hinted at better days ahead.