ZUS Coffee shoots for solo PVL On Tour lead; Galeries, Farm Fresh kick off campaigns

ZUS Coffee looks to build on its strong opening-day performance as it aims for the tournament's first solo lead against Choco Mucho in the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) On Tour on Saturday at the Batangas City Sports Coliseum.

After opening the preseason tournament with a four-set victory over Akari in Ilagan City, Isabela, the Thunderbelles seek to remain unbeaten as the league's six-week provincial showcase shifts to Batangas, where another enthusiastic volleyball crowd is expected.

The Thunderbelles and Flying Titans clash at 6:30 p.m., while Galeries Tower and Farm Fresh begin their respective campaigns in the 4 p.m. curtain-raiser. The tournament is organized by Sports Vision.

A second straight win would give ZUS Coffee sole possession of the early lead while reinforcing its bid to bounce back from an injury-marred All-Filipino Conference.

The Thunderbelles looked rejuvenated in their 25-11, 25-23, 26-28, 25-17 triumph over Akari, displaying improved chemistry, balanced scoring, and renewed confidence under head coach Jerry Yee.

New recruit Zam Nolasco and returning middle blocker AC Miner paced the attack with 15 points apiece, while Jolina dela Cruz added 12 markers. Veteran Rachel Anne Daquis also turned in an inspired performance with 11 points, providing both leadership and stability.

Nolasco credited the team's preparation for her impressive debut, saying their consistent training routine and in-depth game discussions helped ease the adjustment for the team's new players.

Miner's return after missing the entire All-Filipino Conference due to injury strengthened ZUS Coffee's middle defense, while Dela Cruz immediately showed her value following her offseason transfer from Farm Fresh.

The Thunderbelles, however, expect a tougher challenge against perennial contender Choco Mucho, a team known for its disciplined system and relentless floor defense.

The Flying Titans will be without national team standouts Eya Laure and Dawn Catindig, while star opposite hitter Sisi Rondina continues her preparations for the Asian Games.

Still, Dela Cruz believes Choco Mucho remains a dangerous opponent regardless of its lineup.

"This PVL On Tour gives everyone a chance to play, so every player is ready. Our preparation will be the same as it was against Akari because Choco Mucho is never an easy team to face. They're a very defensive squad," she said.

Earlier, Galeries Tower and Farm Fresh begin their campaigns with both teams eager to make a strong first impression.

The Highrisers will unveil top overall rookie pick Lams Lamina, who is expected to share playmaking duties with Julia Coronel after helping the team reach the quarterfinals of the previous All-Filipino Conference.

Galeries also boasts a balanced roster featuring Erika Deloria, Lycha Ebon, Jade Gentapa, Gayle Pascual, Aiza Pontillas, and versatile Alyssa Bertolano, while its frontline of Jean Asis, Ann Roselle Asis, and Roselle Baliton provides a formidable presence at the net.

Farm Fresh, meanwhile, counters with reigning MVP Trisha Tubu and a veteran-laden lineup that includes Rizza Cruz, Ara Galang, Roselyn Aquino, Riri Meneses, Ces Molina, Mylene Rezanova, Renee Peñafiel, and Royse Tubino.

With all four teams eager to make an early statement, Saturday's doubleheader promises another pair of competitive matches as the PVL On Tour continues to bring high-level volleyball to fans across the country.