RIZAL, Philippines – Rain or Shine coach Yeng Guiao called on referees for first-rate officiating after a controversial end to their Game 3 win over Magnolia in the PBA Governors’ Cup quarterfinals on Sunday, September 29.
Although the Elasto Painters ultimately escaped with a 111-106 overtime victory to seize a 2-1 lead in the best-of-five duel, Guiao felt there were plenty of missed calls that marred the gripping match.
“Everyone involved in the game must perform to their utmost best, players and referees included, because you might be the one to ruin a good game if you make a wrong call,” said Guiao in a mix of Filipino and English.
“We demand that from the referees, because that is their duty. It is their job, so I hope they do it well.”
The last 20 seconds in the extra period proved to be a prime example as a chaotic sequence left both teams fuming at the officials.
His side trailing 104-106, Hotshots forward Zavier Lucero drove hard to the basket only to see his layup blocked by Jhonard Clarito.
Magnolia guard Jerrick Ahanmisi then fouled Gian Mamuyac before referees reviewed the previous play as they ruled the Clarito block as a goaltending violation and counted the Lucero layup that knotted the score at 106-106.
The foul on Ahanmisi, however, remained and meant free throws for Mamuyac, prompting furious Hotshots coach Chito Victolero to criticize the officials.
Victolero argued Magnolia would not have fouled if only the referees made the goaltending call as it happened considering the Hotshots were already in penalty situation.
Guiao, meanwhile, questioned why Victolero walked away from his tirade without a technical foul as a punishment.
Both coaches’ pleas, though, were ignored as Mamuyac, import Aaron Fuller, and Jhonard Clarito sank crucial free throws inside the final 10 seconds to guide Rain or Shine to victory.
“Everyone who watched the game saw what coach Chito did. We’re friends with coach Chito and I do the same thing sometimes. But if I did what he did, I’m sure I would get a technical,” said Guiao.
“I’m confused as to why they would not give him a technical … when they should have given him a technical. I asked the referee why they did not make the call. He had no answers.”
The Elasto Painters look to earn their place in the semifinals as they seek to dispose of Magnolia in Game 4 on Tuesday, October 1, at the Ninoy Aquino Stadium. – Rappler.com