Naveen Ganglani
COSTLY. Aldin Ayo's ejection keeps him away from La Salle's first game this season against Ateneo. File photo by Josh Albelda/ Rappler
MANILA, Philippines – De La Salle University’s appeal to have head coach Aldin Ayo’s suspension in their upcoming game against the Ateneo Blue Eagles lifted has been denied by the UAAP, a league source told Rappler on Saturday, October 1.
La Salle’s game versus Ateneo – the first time both rivals meet in UAAP Season 79 – takes place on Sunday, October 2.
Ayo was suspended for receiving a flagrant unsportsmanlike disqualifying foul in his team’s win against UE last Wednesday.
Ayo, who was clearly unhappy with a non-call on what looked like a foul by UE’s Wilson Bartolome on DLSU guard Thomas Torres, took the eye-glasses of his assistant coach Siot Tanquingcen and tried putting it on one of the game’s officials late in the second period, leading to an ejection.
After the contest, Ayo respectfully declined to comment on the incident. In UAAP rules, a coach or player who is ejected is automatically suspended in his team’s next game.
La Salle sent an appeal to UAAP Commissioner Rebo Saguisag on Friday. A UAAP source told Rappler the school may have also sent a letter of apology from Ayo.
As of posting time, Saguisag has yet to respond to Rappler for comment.
The head coach will not be allowed at the Mall of Asia premises when La Salle (6-0) faces Ateneo (4-2). The Green Archers are also expected to be without veteran Jeron Teng, who is recovering from an ankle injury. – Rappler.com
