Closing the ‘spitgate’: UP’s Torres, Monteverde accept verdict on controversial allegation
MANILA, Philippines – After a tumultuous week between the UP Fighting Maroons and La Salle Green Archers, both sides are finally putting water under the bridge after the UAAP handed down a stalemate decision with “stern warnings” on their bench-clearing commotion and subsequent allegations.
One day after Archers coach Topex Robinson gave his unfiltered post-verdict thoughts on UP guard Reyland Torres’ big claim that the champion mentor spat on his shoulder, both Torres and Maroons tactician Goldwin Monteverde also put the issue behind them and accepted the decision.
“I just focused on the team. I let that go and set it aside. The team is more important. For me, I think that’s done,” Torres said in Filipino after UP’s 83-73 win over UST on Sunday, October 13.
“I’m okay with the decision. I think they really thought it through and were fair. It’s really hard to be them and decide, so I’m thankful with their decision. I’ll leave it all to God.”
Monteverde likewise took the high road on the verdict, albeit with his own version of a stern warning to the UAAP.
“Of course, we’ll abide by it and I’m sure it wasn’t an easy decision. They thought it through and had proper meetings with us so we’ll respect that,” he said in Filipino, echoing Torres’ sentiment.
“At the end of the day, I’m very confident that the UAAP would be very strict on not letting spitting incidents slide, or other events of that nature. For me, what’s important is the players’ well-being, Reyland’s well-being and all involved. Hopefully, it doesn’t happen again.”
Fan opinions, however, have remained as heated and as divisive as ever, which all but guarantees a hostile environment the next time UP and La Salle clash on November 10 at the Araneta Coliseum. – Rappler.com