Portland Timbers coach John Spencer was fined a total of $2,500 for his comments that were critical of the officiating after the Timbers' 1-0 loss to Colorado, Major League Soccer announced Friday.
Former Rangers and Chelsea striker Spencer criticized Allen Chapman, the fourth official at the game and referee Abiodun Okulaja during the game before Okulaja sent him off.
"John Spencer's recent public criticism of MLS officials was not constructive and will not be tolerated," MLS commissioner Don Garber in a prepared statement Friday.
"We recognize that referee's decisions can be debated, but public comments cannot impugn the credibility of the officials or the league. MLS requires that its players, coaches, and club leadership maintain proper respect for the officials at all times."
