VERDICT ON BIG GAME
Ballymena boss: Greg upheld Gers’ good name
GREG DOCHERTY has been praised for his handling of an alleged spitting incident involving Eros Grezda by Ballymena manager David Jeffrey.
The Albanian winger was accused of spitting at defender Andrew Burns in Gers Colts’ 1-0 Tunnock’s Caramel Wafer Challenge Cup win in Northern Ireland on Wednesday.
The second-half incident led to angry exchanges with Grezda confronting Ballymena skipper Jim Ervin before being substituted by coach Graeme Murty.
While the rival players were disgusted at Grezda – whose Ibrox future could now be on the line – boss Jeffrey was impressed with Gers Colts captain Docherty for going to the home dressing room to apologise afterwards.
Jeffrey said: “I was most impressed by Greg. He took it upon himself to apologise for what happened upholding the good name of Rangers in the process.
“I know the Rangers people were embarrassed by what happened and felt let down. Mark Hateley and Graeme came to see me and I appreciated what they had to say. For us the matter is over.”
Grezda’s not hit the heights since his £2million switch to Ibrox last year and this incident won’t have done him any favours.
The former Rangers defender lost his six-year battle with motor neurone disease and callers from all clubs united in condolence.
There was calm reflection for a man who’s bravery in the face of such awful adversity is an inspiration.
said: “As a Rangers fan, it was very gratifying to see in this morning’s the tributes to Ricksen from Celtic fans. An illness such as MND doesn’t care who it inhabits. Jimmy Johnstone suffered too – such fit young men in their prime.”
Aberdeen fan said: “As a player Fernando played against my team and the louder you booed the better he played – and you’d have him in your team. As a human battling a cruel illness he was a giant, facing adversity with courage and dignity. Rest easy, big man.”
said: “After the sad death of Fernando, it’s heartwarming to see both sets of Old Firm fans put aside their allegiances and, as always, convey their condolences.
“Both clubs have lost great servants and it is terrific to see real supporters stand up and appreciate the pleasure they gave, no matter what side.”
said: “As a Celtic fan who lost my wonderful sister to MND I have great admiration for Fernando who not only bravely battled this terrible illness but through his effort amassed £1million to try and find a cure.
“A very brave man and my thoughts and prayers are with his family at this sad time.”
via email, said: “I couldn’t