Tim Howard responds to suspension: 'There is a line that shouldn't be crossed'

Colorado Rapids goalkeeper Tim Howard has issued his first public response since being hit with a three-game suspension for altercations with fans in his team's 3–1 loss to Sporting Kansas City on April 9. 

In announcing the suspension a week ago, Major League Soccer pointed to two incidents: A profane verbal interaction with a fan that took place during the game, and a physical confrontation with another fan after it was over. 

In a Facebook post published on Friday, Howard accepted blame for his actions but also criticized the fans' behavior and the stadium security's efforts at keeping said fan under control. 

Howard also pointed out that while he must serve his suspension, no discipline appears to have been levied against the fans or stadium security. 

The statement in many ways mirrors that made by the MLS Players' Union after the suspension was announced.

Howard will be eligible to return for the Rapids on May 5 when the team hosts the Vancouver Whitecaps.