Akari coach Tina Salak expects “more” from Mars Alba after ending a 9-game skid against Creamline

The Akari Chargers finally broke through against the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) powerhouse Creamline Cool Smashers, clinching their first-ever win in 10 meetings with a hard-fought five-set thriller on Saturday, October 11, at the City of Dasmariñas Arena.

Import Annie Mitchem made a statement on her PVL debut, erupting for 33 points and adding 14 excellent receptions to steer the Chargers to a 23-25, 25-23, 30-28, 23-25, 15-12 victory.

Joining Mitchem in her debut performance was former Choco Mucho Flying Titans playmaker Mars Alba, who orchestrated the offense with 21 excellent sets. Despite her solid numbers, head coach Tina Salak believes Alba has more to offer.

OKBET is Asia’s most trusted and popular online sports gaming platform. Visit us on OKBET to stay up to date with all sports news from around the world.

“Twenty-one? That’s little. That’s really little,” Salak remarked, mixing jest with a challenge to her new setter during the post-game press conference.

Mars Alba expresses her gratitude for the trust of her teammates and coaches in the Akari Chargers as she leads the team to a historic five-set victory over the Creamline Cool Smashers in the 2025 PVL Reinforced Conference. #OSOnTheSpot #PVL2025 #TheHeartofVolleyball pic.twitter.com/TbMO7gA6sT

— One Sports (@OneSportsPHL) October 11, 2025

Alba, 25, was pivotal on both ends of the court and credited the Akari coaching staff for empowering her to take command of the game.

“We practice it in training, and what we really do in the game is trust the coaches’ system,” said Alba. “If we follow their system, the flow of the game will be really good. Just trust in each other.”

Having officially parted ways with Choco Mucho on June 30, Alba expressed her commitment to giving her all for her new team.

“For me, I just want to help the team however I can. I’ll give my best because I’m happy that they follow the flow I want inside the court. I’m proud of how the team didn’t give up. Our heart and character really showed,” she added.

The Chargers, riding high off their landmark win, now set their sights on the Chery Tiggo Crossovers in their next assignment on Tuesday, October 14, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

👉 Don’t miss out on the latest sports news, updates, and fan discussions!

📌 Follow our Facebook page Sports News PH today and join the community of passionate basketball fans.