The PLDT High Speed Hitters have officially lodged a complaint with the Premier Volleyball League (PVL) following a controversial net touch challenge that was unsuccessful during their intense semifinal match against the Akari Chargers yesterday.
"We have officially filed a complaint with the PVL Board. Our High Speed Hitters and the coaches have been fighting tooth and nail for every win and every point. This is us, the management, showing that we will fight for them, too," the High Speed Hitters said in an official statement released on Sunday.
"From this poin on, we can only hope for the best," the team added.
The team expressed their gratitude for all the love and support they've been receiving, not just from the PLDT supporters but also from Philippine volleyball enthusiasts across multiple fandoms.
Tension arose when Akari middle blocker Ezra Madrigal appeared to have brushed her shoulder against the bottom tape of the net, leading PLDT to challenge the play for a possible net touch.
After a lengthy review, the officials announced the challenge as unsuccessful, which sparked confusion and frustration among PLDT’s coaching staff and players.
Following the drama, the two teams went back to the game. Grethcel Soltones delivered two pivotal hits for Akari, giving her team match point after the High Speed Hitters had briefly taken the lead. PLDT’s chance for victory ended when Elena Samoilenko’s spike came up short, resulting in their loss.
PVL Commissioner Sherwin Malonzo clarified the situation after the game, asserting that the call was correct. He explained that the action of playing the ball was complete before she turned and seemingly touched the net, therefore, the contact with the net is not a fault.
Malonzo mentioned that the review was not included in the live broadcast due to its technical complexity. “We showed it to the teams, not sa live broadcast, kasi hindi ko alam kung ma-relay ng mabilis sa mga anchors kasi ang worry lang namin is ‘yung interpretation, it takes a while to explain,” he explained.
PLDT's anticipated first finals appearance in the PVL was thwarted after the Akari Chargers clinched victory in yesterday's closely contested match, maintaining their flawless 10-0 record in the tournament.
