Players and fans show support of SD Loyal SC’s decision to forfeit previous match
SD Loyal
Friday, September 25
The San Diego Loyal issued a heartfelt statement this evening that continues along with the conversation today roaming the streets of not only America but the entire world.
Racism.
“We don’t even want to recognize being a part of a match where these types of actions take place.”
Our full statement below regarding the racial slur that was directed at our player in the Sept. 23rd match.#SDLoyal | #BlackLivesMatter pic.twitter.com/bwIr50ToFy
— San Diego Loyal (@SanDiegoLoyal) September 25, 2020
The racial slur happened in the 71st minute of last Wednesday’s 1-1 draw against the Los Angeles Galaxy II. The slur was reportedly directed at defender/midfielder Elijah Martin.
The team decided to forfeit the match, but as they look back on it, they wish they just walked off the field at that moment.
The officials and the Los Angeles Galaxy II did nothing to address the issue.
Racism is a conversation that will continue to happen unless changes are made, and the Loyal are doing their part to make sure change happens.
Manager Landon Donovan issued this statement.
“I couldn’t be more proud to be part of this club. What’s the point of the BLM jerseys/armbands, the kneeling before every game, and the commitment to ending racism if we don’t address it when it happens right before our eyes? This is NEVER acceptable and we will not stand for it.”
The USL Championship announced that Omar Ontiveros would be suspended six games for his actions.
USL Championship statement on Omar Ontiveros suspension:
— USL Championship (@USLChampionship) September 25, 2020
The players, fanbase, media, and teams from around the league show their support of the decision.
Statement from our President on the incident that occurred September 23. pic.twitter.com/yKY1bMqFbY
— The Locals (@TheLocalsSG) September 26, 2020
#EVT stands in full support of the @SanDiegoLoyal https://t.co/1zn6aZy0gC
— East Village Times (@EVT_News) September 26, 2020
So incredibly proud of this organization.
I stand with my teammates, coaches, and front office.
There is no room for racism! https://t.co/3M54D7Nlr3
— Morgan Hackworth (@HackworthMorgan) September 26, 2020
I stand with my teammates as we say no to racism not only on the field, but anywhere in life 🙏🏼🙌🏼 https://t.co/r3ooUl8iDu
— Rubio Yovani Mendez Rubin (@RubioRubin) September 26, 2020
Racism has no place in the game and we wish you hadn’t been put in this position
— Phoenix Rising FC (@PHXRisingFC) September 26, 2020
The team is yet to add any further comment on the statement.
San Diego remains in second place of Group B with 22 points, despite the point deduction due to the forfeit.
Their final match of the season is Wednesday, Sept. 30, against No. 1 seed Phoenix Rising. The match starts a 7 p.m. and can be seen on ESPN+.
Chris is a graduate of the University of San Diego. He is the former Sports Editor for the USDVista newspaper. Chris is also an athlete and is huge fan of San Diego sports. Chris has covered the San Diego Loyal, and contributes regularly about the Padres.