ZUS Coffee sweeps Choco Mucho to stay unbeaten in PVL On Tour

ZUS Coffee stretched its winning streak to two matches after sweeping a shorthanded Choco Mucho squad, 25-14, 25-12, 25-23, in the 2026 Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour on Saturday at the Batangas City Sports Center.

Coming off a four-set victory over Akari in the tournament opener, the Thunderbelles dominated the first two sets before weathering a late challenge in the third to remain unbeaten and pocket another ₱100,000 winner's incentive.

The Flying Titans played without national team standouts Sisi Rondina, Eya Laure, and newcomer Dawn Catindig, who are currently with Alas Pilipinas in preparation for the 2026 Asian Games.

Despite facing a depleted opponent, ZUS Coffee head coach Jerry Yee emphasized that the preseason tournament continues to serve its purpose as the team works to develop chemistry with its new additions.

"Not all the teams are complete, but for us, we're trying different rotations because we have several new players. We want to give them opportunities to play and get comfortable with the system," Yee said.

The Thunderbelles showcased their depth, with setter Chenae Basarte stepping in for Cloanne Mondonedo and orchestrating the offense with 12 excellent sets.

Chinnie Arroyo led the balanced scoring attack with nine points, while veteran Jovelyn Gonzaga made an impressive season debut after missing the opener, contributing eight points and six excellent digs.

Rookie Nicole Ong also scored eight points, while Jolina Dela Cruz and Rachel Daquis added six markers each. Kate Santiago, Zam Nolasco, AC Miner, and Riza Nogales chipped in five points apiece as ZUS Coffee spread the offense across its lineup.

After cruising through the opening two sets, the Thunderbelles were tested in the third as Choco Mucho battled back to tie the score at 23-all.

Dela Cruz responded with an off-the-block attack to restore ZUS Coffee's lead before Miner sealed the victory with a stuff block on Des Cheng to complete the straight-set win.

The Thunderbelles will look to complete an unbeaten preseason campaign when they take on PLDT on Aug. 8 in Santiago, Isabela.

Caitlin Viray paced Choco Mucho with 12 points, while Cheng added 10. Libero Thang Ponce anchored the Flying Titans' defense with 19 excellent digs and 16 excellent receptions, but Choco Mucho still absorbed its first loss of the preseason.

The Flying Titans will try to bounce back against PLDT on July 25 in Vigan, Ilocos Sur.