By Will Imperial
Sisi Rondina is pleased with the developing connection between her and new playmaker Mars Alba, showing satisfaction in only their second game together in the Philippine Volleyball League (PVL).
Alba stepped in as the setter for the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, with the team’s main setter, Deanna Wong, sidelined due to a nagging knee injury.
Despite Wong being in uniform, head coach Dante Alinsunurin opted to start with Alba as the team’s playmaker, and she proved to be a crucial asset in the Flying Titans’ intense battle against Petro Gazz on Tuesday night.
Wong made cameo appearances, injecting new looks during the five-set nail-biter that ultimately saw Choco Mucho emerge victorious with a 24-26, 25-22, 25-18, 24-26, 15-13 scoreline.
Despite occasional miscommunications, Rondina gracefully accepted responsibility, recognizing that Alba is still adjusting to the team dynamics.
Rondina, who contributed 24 points and 22 excellent receptions to the win, emphasized her encouragement to Alba, urging her to just do her thing inside the volleyball court.
“I just told Mars to lift her head. If I’m in front, don’t worry if I make a mistake; it’s not your fault,” she said.
Alba, a recent addition to Choco Mucho in January following the disbandment of F2 Logistics, showcased her skills with 25 excellent sets in the win against the Angels. This led to a balanced scoring effort, with five Flying Titans players reaching double digits.
Taking accountability for the learning curve, Rondina explained, “I really take the blame because, of course, she’s still new to our team. She’s finding ways to connect, and tonight, I saw that we connected.”
While Alba recognizes her ongoing adjustment to the team, she acknowledges the need to catch up and synchronize with the squad’s established rhythm.
“I’m getting used to it, but I still feel lacking because I really need to catch up. I’m the only new one inside, so I need to catch up with their system and movements inside and connect more,” Alba said.
