MANILA — ZUS Coffee continued to establish itself as one of the early teams to beat in the 2026 PVL On Tour Showdown, overpowering a shorthanded Choco Mucho squad, 25-14, 25-12, 25-23, on Saturday night at the Batangas City Sports Center to remain unbeaten with a 2-0 record.
Fresh from a four-set victory over Akari in its tournament opener, the Thunderbelles delivered another commanding performance, overwhelming the Flying Titans in the opening two sets before fending off a late rally in the third to complete the straight-set sweep.
Jolina dela Cruz was named Player of the Game after tallying six attack points while providing stability on defense with four excellent receptions and three excellent digs.
Chinnie Arroyo paced the Thunderbelles with nine points, while veteran Jovelyn Gonzaga and rookie Alyanna Ong added eight markers apiece as ZUS Coffee dictated the tempo behind balanced scoring, disciplined floor defense, and efficient execution.
The Thunderbelles controlled the match from the opening serve, racing through the first two sets before surviving Choco Mucho’s spirited fightback in the third to seal the victory in straight sets.
The Flying Titans competed without several of their top stars, including Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and newly acquired Dawn Catindig, who are currently with Alas Pilipinas in preparation for the 2026 Asian Games.
Despite the depleted roster, Caitlyn Viray led Choco Mucho with 12 points, while Desiree Cheng chipped in 10.
In the day’s other match, the Galeries Tower Highrisers opened their campaign with a hard-earned 25-17, 24-26, 25-19, 26-24 triumph over the Farm Fresh Foxies.
Erika Jin Deloria starred for Galeries Tower with a triple-double of 24 points, 13 excellent receptions, and 10 excellent digs to power the Highrisers to victory.
Veteran Aiza Maizo-Pontillas contributed 13 points, setter Julia Coronel orchestrated the offense with 21 excellent sets while adding four points, and Babylove Barbon anchored the team’s floor defense with 17 excellent receptions and nine excellent digs./PN
