UAAP board denies Adamson appeal for replay

MANILA, Philippines - The UAAP board yesterday denied the appeal of Adamson to replay the game it lost to La Salle, saying the controversial foul that sealed the former’s doom was not technical in nature but a judgment call.

“Regarding the re-match, it was not approved by the board so there will be no re-match for Adamson,” said Malu Isip, league secretary and Adamson’s board representative.

In return, the league extended the three-game suspension slapped by commissioner Chito Loyzaga on referee Francisco Olivar, who called the controversial foul on Adamson’s Gian Abrigo with 15 seconds to go, to six.

“The league technical committee decided that the three-game suspension to Mr. Olivar will be extended to six games,” said Isip. “Which means that he (Olivar) will not be allowed to officiate starting now (yesterday) and until Aug. 21.”

Isip, however, didn’t say if Olivar can still officiate in an Adamson game upon his return.

Isip said they welcome the decision.

“We’re satisfied with the decision, our president is satisfied with the decision,” said Isip referring to league president Fr. Max Rendon, CM.

Loyzaga recommended to the board Friday a three-game suspension for Olivar for the late call that helped decide the outcome of the game.