CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Football Association stood pat on its decision to ban PAREF-Springdale and its head coach Mario Ceniza for three years not only in CFA-sanctioned tournaments but also in all other events under the Philippine Football Federation (PFF).
CFA president Richard Montayre said he himself is deeply saddened by this turn of event but pointed out they have no other choice than to abide by the tournament rules.
Montayre likewise rebuffed insinuations that they did not give Paref-Springdale and Ceniza due process in handing down such 'harsh' penalty.
In fact, Montayre said he even advised the team and some parents to think deep whether or not to push through with their withdrawal from the Aboitiz Football Cup.
“I’m also a Springdale parent. I told them to weigh their decision properly. Let’s be professionals, let's not go personal,” said Montayre.
Inspite of his move, Paref-Springdale still pulled out from the Aboitiz event after its under-14 squad was forfeited in their match against Blessed John Seminary.
The Springdale booters failed to show up in time due to conflict of schedule with the Sinulog Cup, which they are also taking part.
Paref-Springdale, accordingly, sent a representative to inform the organizers that their players are also in the venue and are rushing to the pitch.
However, the organizers are sticking with their rules that the 15-minute grace period only applies to first game of the day. They also strictly enforced the 'no coach, no play policy' - something that has also caused the forefeiture of other teams.
Actually, there was a request to CFA to adjust the schedule for the Aboitiz Cup on that day, but this was turned down simply because the CFA could not adjust its order of play since the Sinulog Cup was not sanctioned by the group.
“If they are not amenable to it (ground rules), they should have made objections before the start of the tournament.These people don’t know how to follow rules. As a coach, he (Ceniza) should choose his priorities. He’s an AFC-licensed coach. He should know more than that. I am disappointed,” said Montayre. (FREEMAN)