Progresso’s Latrell Middleton, the PLB’s top scorer, was the most closely marked player during the two legs of the PLB Final in Orange Walk and Benque Viejo del Carmen. In this photo from Leg 1 at the People’s Stadium, he is challenged by (L–R) Verdes’ Christian Ramirez, Jordy Polanco, and Darrel Myvett. Photo Credit: Progresso FC / LUL’s Quick Cash
By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Progresso FC striker Latrell Middleton has issued a public apology following his ejection from Saturday night’s Premier League of Belize (PLB) Opening Season Final at the Edmund Marshalleck Stadium in Benque Viejo del Carmen, where he was observed kicking a stray dog during a tense interruption in the 84th minute.
Middleton was immediately shown a red card and expelled from the match after the incident, which occurred amidst a prolonged stoppage. Verdes’ Krisean Lopez had just been sent off for dissent—loud and disrespectful complaints—to the referee Victor Caliz, Progresso’s Richard Gillett had come on for the injured Marlon Gutierrez—who was taken by ambulance to the San Ignacio Hospital—and a dog that had entered the stadium remained on the pitch. In that charged atmosphere, Middleton, this season’s top scorer who had failed to score in either leg of the final, lost his composure and lashed out at the animal.
“I deeply regret what happened,” Middleton said in his statement posted on social media on Sunday morning.
“My actions were wrong and do not reflect who I am as a person or the values I stand for. I understand that there is no excuse for harming an animal, and I want to make it absolutely clear that I do not support or condone animal cruelty in any form.”
“In the heat of the moment, I made a decision that I now truly regret. Seeing the reaction from the public has made me reflect deeply, and I take full responsibility for my behavior. I am committed to learning from this incident and ensuring that it never happens again.”
Middleton also apologized to his teammates, Progresso FC, match officials, and fans.
“I pledge to conduct myself with greater awareness, discipline, and respect, both on and off the field. Once again, I am truly sorry,” the forward said.
The Football Federation of Belize (FFB) had already condemned the incident.
“The Football Federation of Belize unequivocally condemns any form of abuse or mistreatment of animals and stresses that such behavior is unacceptable and contrary to the values and principles of football,” the FFB said in a statement posted on social media less than an hour after the match on Saturday at 10:13 pm.
The matter has been referred to the FFB Disciplinary Committee, which will determine sanctions. Middleton is expected to face disciplinary action, while sanctions may also be considered against Verdes FC for the dog being on the pitch, having somehow gained access to the facility.
Following the FFB’s condemnation, Progresso FC also released an official apology on Sunday morning.
“Progresso FC deeply regrets what occurred and offers a sincere apology to the public. As a club, we do not condone animal cruelty in any form,” the PLB club said.
“The actions seen in the footage do not reflect the values, principles, or standards that Progresso FC stands for. We firmly believe in sportsmanship, respect, and responsibility, both on and off the field, and we respect all living beings.”
“We understand that the incident is currently under review by the relevant authorities. Progresso FC will cooperate fully with any investigation and will also address the matter internally in accordance with league regulations and our own disciplinary procedures.”
Middleton’s public apology has been commended by many fans and members of the football community. Belize Women’s National Team goalkeeper Jasmin Armstrong wrote: “Proud of you for this!!! So many young kids in Cayo I know look up to you and always call your name when they see you play. Keep doing the right thing, you did well! Don’t let the enemy sway your mind to do otherwise, you are more talented than words can explain! Keep positive always.”
Former Belize Men’s National Team goalkeeper and current FFB Executive member Shane Orio also offered support: “We learn and grow, remember ur a role model and have a lot of people in ur corner. Blessings stay positive.”
Both Middleton and Progresso FC reaffirmed their commitment to accountability and professionalism. The FFB likewise emphasized its responsibility to uphold integrity and ensure a safe environment for all participants, supporters, and animals affected by matchday activities.
The post Progresso’s Latrell Middleton issues apology after animal incident in PLB Final appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Progresso’s Latrell Middleton, the PLB’s top scorer, was the most closely marked player during the two legs of the PLB Final in Orange Walk and Benque Viejo del Carmen. In this photo from Leg 1 at the People’s Stadium, he is challenged by (L–R) Verdes’ Christian Ramirez, Jordy Polanco, and Darrel Myvett. Photo Credit: Progresso
The post Progresso’s Latrell Middleton issues apology after animal incident in PLB Final appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
