In a stunning turn of events at the Smart Araneta Coliseum, the Choco Mucho Flying Titans found themselves grappling with a bitter defeat in Game 1 of the 2024 Premier Volleyball League All-Filipino Conference finals against the formidable Creamline Cool Smashers. However, amidst the disappointment, head coach Dante Alinsunurin stood as a beacon of resilience, urging his team to shake off the setback and focus on the crucial Game 2 showdown.
The Flying Titans, known for their soaring performances, stumbled after an impressive start, conceding the match in four sets (24-26, 25-20, 25-21, 25-16) to the defending champions. Yet, Alinsunurin wasted no time in rallying his troops, emphasizing the importance of a swift mental reset.
“Una, sabi ko sa mga players, wag nating dalhin yung nangyari today. Kung ano man yung nangyari sa laro namin, iwan na namin sa dugout namin,” said Alinsunurin.
“Kasi mahirap bumangon sa ganitong sitwasyon na alam namin na kami yung challenger dito, Creamline yung defending. Importante sa amin na mag-mindset ulit kami pagdating bukas,” he added.
Acknowledging the need for introspection, Alinsunurin vowed to address the team's late-game struggles promptly. Despite commanding leads in the second and third sets, the Flying Titans faltered when it mattered most, allowing the Cool Smashers to seize control in the latter stages—a flaw that demanded immediate rectification.
“Trabahuin ulit namin kung ano yung naging problema namin. Sabi ko nga, yung pagkukulang namin sa sets ng endgame, yun yung kailangan naming pag-usapan. Ano yung adjustment namin para ma-maximize namin sa ganung sitwasyon,” said Alinsunurin.
While the weight of defeat hung heavy, Alinsunurin revealed a resilient spirit within the Choco Mucho camp. Following a heart-to-heart among the coaching staff, management, and players, a sense of determination permeated the atmosphere, setting the stage for a spirited comeback.
"At first, before they stepped onto the court, understandably, there was silence. We lamented what happened because there were moments when we dictated the tempo, only to falter towards the end. But after our huddle, where the management and coaches spoke, they understood the need for a resurgence," Alinsunurin shared, highlighting the team's collective resolve.
As the Flying Titans regrouped, their focus shifted to Game 2—a chance to rewrite the narrative and level the series. While the sting of defeat lingered, Alinsunurin's unwavering faith in his team's abilities echoed through the arena, echoing a rallying cry that reverberated far beyond the court.
“Nung una, bago pumasok, siyempre tahimik sila. Nanghihinayang kami sa nangyari, kasi meron kaming mga set na kami yung nagse-set ng tempo, medyo sa huli lang ano. After naman kami nag-huddle with the guys, yung management din, yung coaches nagsalita, naintindihan nila na kailangan talaga namin bumalik talaga,” he affirmed.
“Yun, siguro, paglabas ng mga players kanina, naiwan na talaga yung nangyari kasi sobrang nanghihinayang, pero sabi ko, hindi pa naman tapos yung series. Importante lang makabalik kami at trabahuin namin sa Sunday.”
