Tolentino helps Choco stay perfect

BACARRA, Ilocos Norte, Philippines — Kat Tolentino came through with a strong attacking game as Choco Mucho turned back Black Mamba Army, 25-19, 25-23, 25-19, yesterday to remain unscathed and closer to the semifinals of the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Open Conference at the PCV Socio-Civic & Cultural Center here.

The 26-year-old Tolentino came out firing on all cylinders early and finished with a match-best 18 points, all coming from kills, to power the Flying Titans to their sixth win in as many games, or just a victory away from claiming a semis seat.

The Lady Troopers slipped to 2-4.

It was sustained brilliance for the former Ateneo star as she came off a masterful 25-hit effort in a 25-23, 23-25, 25-15, 25-21 win over Bali Pure last Friday.

“I’m happy with how Kat is playing but I know she can deliver more,” said Choco Mucho coach Oliver Almadro of Tolentino. “Alam naman natin one-and-a-half, almost two years ang pahinga.

“Sana yung condition niya maibalik pa at the right time and I know she’s preparing for it right now,” he added.

Tolentino though was quick to share the honor with her teammates.

“I think it was a team win, everyone contributed with receive, defense, setting, spiking and I’m just thankful we all worked together,” said Tolentino. “I wouldn’t be able to spike without these girls and without their consistent effort.”

Choco Mucho would need just a win to advance to the best-of-three semis.

But the road to it is expected to be bumpy as it faces title contenders Creamline tomorrow, Chery Tiggo on Friday and Petro Gazz on Sunday.