Will Clark – The fallen deserve respect regardless of team supported
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
I am no Rangers fan, but credit where credit is due, the way they marked Remembrance Day was outstanding and a fitting tribute to those who served our country and made the ultimate sacrifice.
Before the game against Ross County at Ibrox, massive banners were unfurled across the stadium with soldiers firing a cannon before and after a minute’s silence.
The silence was observed impeccably by the fans at Ibrox and anyone serving the armed forces would have been proud by what took place.
The scene could not have been more different at Dens Park.
Celtic fans booed and jeered during the minute’s silence which was slammed by their former player Andy Walker who labelled their behaviour as embarrassing.
Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou said after the match that he would have preferred the way that the fans reacted did not happen.
He said: “From my perspective we try to observe these things in the most respectful manner we can and I’d encourage everyone to do that.”
Whatever the reason from fans to react the way they did, it was wrong and disrespectful and those who served our country deserved better than that.
It is important regardless of reaction from supporters, that we continue to honour traditions that pay tribute to those who have served our country.
It was reported that at other grounds across the country, the minute’s silence was impeccably observed with no trouble or disrespect reported by clubs.
It is important that football grounds are used to promote important causes and highlight significant events in our history to show the respect of the country.
Before kick-off at Ibrox on Sunday, players continued to take the knee as part of the Black Lives Matter campaign which was met with applause from the crowd. The campaign continues at other grounds across the country as well which has be met with a good response too.
There have been incidents in England and in Europe of teams being booed for taking the knee in support of the Black Lives Matter campaign.
But it is great to see that football clubs do not give in to that sort of reaction and it only reinforces their support of what is a vital issue.
I like how football clubs remember their heroes who have passed away either through a minute’s silence of minute’s applause.
It shows respect to the achievements of what that individual has done and will always be remembered.
I can’t understand the mindset of anyone at a football ground who would want to jeer and boo the memory of someone who has died.
I would go as far as issuing bans for life for such behaviour.
I have no members of family who serve in the armed forces, but I appreciate anyone who puts their life on the line to serve our country and protect our freedom.
Regardless of the boo boys, it is great most clubs continue to honour the memory of the fallen.
I wear my poppy with pride as a mark of respect to all those who made this country what it is today.
People have their own political views which they are entitled too.
But whatever they are, it is never right to boo and jeer someone who has died while serving their country and it is time to show more respect.
