The Premier Volleyball League has dismissed the protest filed by the PLDT Highspeed Hitters concerning the controversial call in set 5 of their semifinal match against the Akari Chargers.
“We sadly share the news that the Premier Volleyball League has decided to junk our protest regarding their referees’ decision to not call a net touch on a crucial juncture of our match versus Akari in the semifinals,” PLDT High Speed Hitters said in their official statement on Sunday.
During the match, PLDT challenged the non-call of a net touch when Akari’s middle blocker, Ezra Madrigal, seemingly touched the net during the rally.
The PVL explained that there was no net fault at the moment Madrigal touched the net because the play was already far from the player involved.
They based this on rule 11.3.2 of the FIVB Rulebook, which allows players to touch or come into contact with the net as long as it does not affect the play or occurring rally.
Following the PVL's decision, the Highspeed Hitters expressed their gratitude for the support and dedication of their fans. They stated that the PLDT team is proud of how they came together to uphold not only their own integrity but also that of Philippine volleyball as a whole.
"The High Speed Hitters are in the business of inspiring the next generation of athletes who will one day plain in the big leagues," PLDT said.
"So to the kids watching al of this unfold, whatever adversity that comes along the way, please continue to fight. Because we will," they added.
Following this, the finals match between Akari and the Creamline Cool Smashers will proceed as planned. Originally scheduled for today,the game has been rescheduled to September 4 due to adverse weather conditions.
Furthermore, the PLDT Highspeed Hitters will face the Cignal HD Spikers in the bronze medal clash on September 4.
