There’s no getting around it: what happened that weekend was ugly and the videos speak for themselves. Saying nothing about the element of supporters who forced their way in looks like turning a blind eye. That won’t wash. If we’re honest, we need to call out poor behaviour wherever it comes from, and not fall into the trap of claiming victimhood when you helped start the mess.
Don’t pretend only they have a problem
We’ve all seen footage and read the headlines. Ignoring that aspect in a public statement feels like a deliberate omission. For fans and clubs alike, an acknowledgement is the least you can expect. Calling out a rival’s toxic element doesn’t make you virtuous if you won’t admit there are issues in your own support. To be fair, we have tried to tackle our own problems and point them out when necessary. That honesty matters more than a defensive press release that only points fingers.
We’ve been there too — so don’t get precious
I’ve been at Parkhead and seen atmosphere turn dangerous. Watching rival fans run onto the pitch to confront a player sticks with you, but the difference I noticed was where people celebrated afterwards. We stayed in the stands where we belonged. You don’t get to act like a clown and then be surprised when others respond. There are plenty of idiots on every side who will take the bait. If you go out looking for trouble, don’t act shocked when trouble finds you.
What has to change
Clubs and supporters both carry responsibility. Supporters should be held to account for rowdy or dangerous conduct, and clubs should be transparent when elements of their support behave badly. That applies equally to us and to them. Players and staff aren’t exempt either — discipline and example come from the top down. Simple: behave yourself, and stop pretending you’re the injured party if your own crowd stirs things up.
We’re better than the headlines we sometimes generate. A bit of self-reflection would go a long way — from the terraces to the boardroom.
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