Liverpool supporter Mal James gives his thoughts on the ‘chanting’ which has dominated the headlines in the lead-up to the big match at Anfield tomorrow.
My next statement won’t go down well with many Liverpool fans, but here goes.
I’m a lifelong Liverpool fan, but I don’t hate Manchester United.
Why should I? They play entertaining football. They’ve been a great example of a well-run club. I work with a really helpful and genuine guy who is a Man U fan. When they win, he’s happy. So, if they don’t beat Liverpool, I have no problems with Man U winning.
I’d be critical of United for one thing though – the moronic element among their supporters who chant about Hillsborough. But hang on, there is an disgusting element among Liverpool ‘fans’ who come out with equally sick chants about Munich.
And each set of lowlife will justify what they do by pointing the finger at the other side -‘ It’s not our fault, it’s them.’
So, all credit to Sir Alex Ferguson for taking steps to issue travelling United fans with a letter asking them to desist.
At least, at long last, someone is trying. But it’s a damning criticism that this is the first time there has been any attempt to stop this.
Both clubs could have taken action before now. There are CCTV cameras in the grounds. Why not issue warnings that anyone caught, on camera, indulging in such chants, will be barred from the ground?
It might be a ban for three matches for a first offence, and a life ban after that .
People are (rightly) prosecuted and banned for racist chanting. This is just as bad. So why is it ignored?
It’s about time the authorities got tough, and if there is any at tomorrow’s match, it should be swiftly and firmly dealt with.
Should there be a zero tolerance policy for ‘sick’ chanting?
image: © helly – b
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