As it stands, PLDT is set to take on the Cignal HD Spikers in the battle-for-third. Meanwhile, Akari will battle Creamline for the Reinforced Conference crown.
PLDT’s protest of the controversial net touch during set 5 of the 2024 PVL Reinforced Conference semifinals against Akari has been dismissed by the Premier Volleyball League, the team announced.
In a statement released late Sunday night, the High Speed Hitters say that their protest is unsuccessful.
“We sadly share the news that the Premier Volleyball League has decided to junk our protest regarding their referees’ decision not to call a net touch on a crucial juncture of our match versus Akari in the semifinals,” the statement read.
In the aftermath of their five-set loss Saturday, August 31, PLDT head coach Rald Ricafort confirmed the team’s desire to protest the PVL decision regarding the supposed net touch violation committed by the Chargers.
Up 14-13, PLDT called for a challenge mid-rally as Akari middle blocker Ezra Madrigal made contact with the net after a block attempt.
Following review, officials ruled the challenge unsuccessful, and the PVL later clarified the move as legal after the match, citing the FIVB casebook.
PLDT proceeded to file an official complaint Sunday morning, before sharing the news of the protest’s dismissal some 11 hours later.
[Related: 'Hope for the best': PLDT files official complaint with the PVL Board over controversial end to semis clash with Akari]
As it stands, PLDT is set to take on the Cignal HD Spikers in the battle-for-third on Monday, September. 2. Meanwhile, Akari will battle Creamline for the Reinforced Conference crown.