Petro Gazz ends slump, downs Choco Mucho

The Petro Gazz Angels snapped a three-game losing skid with a decisive 25-18, 25-21, 25-18 victory over the Choco Mucho Flying Titans, concluding the first round of the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference on Tuesday at the PhilSports Arena.

After a rocky start to their campaign, the Angels improved to a 2-3 record, securing fourth place in Pool B. This victory sends them into the crossover second round, where they will face the top three teams from Pool A.

Wilma Salas, the returning import, was the driving force behind Petro Gazz’s resurgence, tallying 18 points, including 16 successful attacks. Salas was a force on both ends of the court, adding 18 excellent receptions to her impressive stat line, ensuring her team didn’t slip into a precarious 1-4 hole.

Brooke Van Sickle provided solid support with 17 points and 12 digs, showcasing her all-around game. Myla Pablo contributed 11 points, helping to maintain the Angels’ offensive pressure throughout the match.

Chie Saet orchestrated the attack with 15 excellent sets, adding seven digs and four points of her own, proving instrumental in the team’s balanced offense.

For Choco Mucho, Dindin Manabat was the lone bright spot, delivering 13 points in a match where the team struggled to find its footing. Greek import Zoi Faki was limited to just three points and was benched in the third set as the Flying Titans looked for answers that never materialized.

The Flying Titans ended the first round with a disappointing 1-4 record, their only victory coming against the winless ZUS Coffee Thunderbelles. They will face a similar uphill battle as Petro Gazz in the next round.

WATCH: Choco Mucho vs. Petro Gazz (August 6) Game Highlights

With their first-round struggles behind them, Petro Gazz (2-3), Choco Mucho (1-4), and ZUS Coffee (0-5) now move into the crossover second round, where they will face the top three teams from Pool A. The Angels will be looking to build on their recent success, while Choco Mucho will need to regroup and find their rhythm if they hope to make a deeper run in the tournament.

As the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference heats up, both teams face tougher challenges ahead, but Petro Gazz will carry some much-needed momentum into the next round after their dominant win.