The controversy stems from a challenge made by the PLDT High Speed Hitters mid-rally at match point in set 5 of their semis clash against the Akari Chargers. The challenge was later ruled unsuccessful.
The PLDT High Speed Hitters have pushed through with their protest over the unsuccessful challenge at match point against the Akari Chargers in the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conferense semifinals on Saturday, August 1.
In a team statement on Sunday, September 1, the High Speed Hitters say that a complaint has been officially filed to the PVL Board.
Head coach Rald Ricafort earlier also confirmed PLDT’s plans to file a protest.
[Related: PVL: PLDT to file protest over controversial net touch against Akari in Reinforced Conference semis]
The controversy stems from a challenge made by the High Speed Hitters mid-rally at match point in set 5 of their semis clash against the Chargers.
Holding a 14-13 lead, PLDT called for a challenge as Akari middle blocker Ezra Madrigal appeared to cause a net touch.
Following a review, the challenge was unsuccessful and the point was awarded to Akari. Even as PLDT regained match point a play later, the Chargers would score three straight to win the match and make the Reinforced Conference Finals.
Confusion ensued over the handling of the unsuccessful challenge, which the PVL clarified after the match.
In explaining the controversial play, PVL Commissioner Sherwin Malonzo cited FIVB’s casebook.
[Related: PVL explains controversial unsuccessful challenge by PLDT against Akari in Reinforced Conference semis]
“‘After a blocker landed securely, he turned and hit the mesh of the net between the antennae with his/her shoulder. Should this have been called a fault? No, because the action of playing the ball was complete before he/she turned, the contact with the net is not a fault,’” Malonzo explained.
As it stands, the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference Finals is set between Akari and Creamline, and will be played Monday, September 2, at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.