Sockers Ask for Probe of Altercation

The Sockers said Friday that they had asked the Major Indoor Soccer League to investigate remarks directed at Coach Ron Newman by Fernando Clavijo, a Los Angeles Lazers defender and former Socker, after the Lazers’ 10-9 victory Thursday night at the Forum.

Sockers’ President Ron Cady, reacting to comments by Clavijo that Newman “should treat all of his players fairly regardless of the color of their skin or the way they speak,” phoned Commissioner Bill Kentling Friday afternoon, then said the team would have no further comment until next week.

After the Lazers’ double-overtime victory, Clavijo made an obscene gesture toward Newman in front of the Sockers’ bench, and Newman returned the gesture.

The two came together, and witnesses said Newman grabbed Clavijo. Newman said afterward that Clavijo punched him in the face with his right hand. Clavijo said he only pushed Newman away and did that only after Newman spit in his face.

Reporters questioned Clavijo about the incident afterward, and he said: “I think the guy is destroying a lot of players in San Diego. He’s not giving them a chance.

“Look at Poli Garcia (who scored 50 goals last season in St. Louis but had just one in limited playing time before the Sockers traded him to Los Angeles Tuesday). I don’t want to call it discrimination, but what can you call it?”

Newman has been asked by Socker management not to discuss the situation but did say: “Anybody who knows my history knows that the things he said are total lies.”

Cady said he also phoned the Lazers Friday and asked them to conduct an investigation into the incident.