One more time

The Premier Volleyball League (PVL) Reinforced Conference closes the first of its two preliminary phases today with a pair of rematches — games that were supposed to open the year-ending tournament last month but were ordered replayed following the absence of imports due to ITC (International Transfer Certificates) issues.

This time, though, there will be no shortage of fireworks. With top-tier reinforcements, ZUS Coffee faces Akari at 4 p.m., while Choco Mucho takes on Capital1 at 6:30 p.m. — matches that promise not just redemption and revenge, but also the kind of explosive, high-level volleyball fans had been waiting for — at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

Among the four teams, the Thunderbelles have emerged as the revelation of the conference. Powerhouse import Anna DeBeer has not only delivered on firepower but also provided inspiration and composure that have elevated the play of the local crew.

The result: An immaculate 4-0 record in Pool B, making them the only unbeaten squad in both groups — a statement of dominance and cohesion.

“As a team, we want to win this thing. And we're going to try our best to get there," said the 24-year-old DeBeer after dropping 23 points to power the Thunderbelles to a 25-22, 25-21, 25-20 win over powerhouse Petro Gazz that put them closer to a first-round sweep last week.

"I think that's why it's super exciting to be in an environment with such a great team, with great staff, and be around good people where it's fun to work hard every single day."

"So, I'm really just excited about getting better and seeing how far we can go.”

But while ZUS Coffee is brimming with confidence, Akari has quietly built momentum of its own, winning three of its first four outings to nearly secure the No. 3 slot behind the Thunderbelles and the Creamline Cool Smashers (3-2).

With both sides now armed with their imports, this rematch promises a far different complexion from their all-Filipino duel last October — expect sharper attacks, heavier blocks and far more explosive rallies.

In the middle, Akari’s Ced Domingo and Fifi Sharma will have their hands full against Riza Nogales, AC Miner and Thea Gagate, while on the wings, Annie Mitchem, Eli Soyud, Grethcel Soltones and Chenie Tagaod will try to counter the balanced assault of Fiola Ceballos, Kate Santiago and Jovelyn Gonzaga. Every point, every serve, every transition could swing the momentum in this highly anticipated clash.

The clash between Choco Mucho and Capital1 is also shaping up to be another thriller.

Both teams tote 2-2 records, with the winner securing the No. 3 spot in Pool A and advancing alongside PLDT and Farm Fresh (both at 4-1) to the next stage.

When they first met on 7 October — with all-Filipino lineups — Choco Mucho dominated in straight sets. But this time, the stakes, the atmosphere, and the firepower are entirely different.

Capital1 rides high after a shocking 3-0 sweep of the Cignal, while Choco Mucho is seeking redemption after falling to Farm Fresh in four sets.

For the Flying Titans, import Marlee Smith aims to bounce back after being limited to four points in their last outing. Coach Dante Alinsunurin will once again rely on his core of local stars — Kat Tolentino, Isa Molde, Dindin Manabat, Royse Tubino and middles Maddie Madayag, Aduke Ogunsanya, and Lorraine Pecaña — to stabilize the team’s attack.