 |
| Caloocan will indeed not play against Biñan in Polomolok. MPBL (file photo) |
QUEZON CITY—Caloocan confirmed on Saturday that it will not play against Biñan later in the night at the Polomolok Gymnasium in South Cotabato.
In a statement, the Batang Kankaloo apologized to their fans who were looking forward to the crucial inter-conference showdown with huge playoff seeding implications.
"Today, September 5, we regret to inform you that Caloocan Batang Kankaloo will be unable to participate in its scheduled game in Polomolok. This decision was made with great difficulty by the management, and we extend our sincere apologies to those who had anticipated witnessing our team's performance," the club said.
Caloocan admitted that the decision not to play in Polomolok was challenging, but according to the team, undisclosed circumstances led to them taking the risk of getting a forfeiture loss.
"We request your understanding as circumstances have necessitated this challenging decision. We acknowledge that this may cause disappointment to many, particularly those who have been eagerly awaiting and supporting our team. We deeply appreciate your patience and understanding during this period," the Batang Kankaloo further said.
While the team did not disclose the real reason, speculations surfaced since Friday that Caloocan was taking a firm stand in protesting its Aug. 11 loss to GenSan, the home team in the initially scheduled Saturday night twinbill.
Almost a month after the tough defeat at home, the Batang Kankaloo are seemingly still fuming over the alleged spotty officiating during the said game.
However, in what seems like a contradiction to a report by Spin.PH's Snow Badua that it is considering pulling out of the league despite an 18-3 record, they clarified that they will continue to support the MPBL.
"We would like to assure you that Caloocan Batang Kankaloo will continue to support the MPBL. Our objective remains to contribute to the promotion and development of Philippine basketball," Caloocan further said.
The Tatak Gel are already in Polomolok, which means the MPBL is expected to declare a forfeiture of the game.
Once made formal, Biñan will move up to 20-4, keeping the team in a good position to finish with the best record in the South Division with only one game left in its regular season schedule, a home stand against Pasig on Thursday night at the Alonte Sports Arena.
Meanwhile, Caloocan will drop to 18-4, kissing its hopes of stealing the top seed in the North Division away from Abra goodbye.
Had it decided to continue on and eventually beat the Tatak Gel, the showdown between the Batang Kankaloo and the Weavers, also on Thursday night, would have had a huge bearing on the race for the top seed in the North.
With the Caloocan-Biñan game now canceled, only GenSan's home stand against Quezon will be played on Saturday night.
Game time remains at 5 p.m.
