This year’s European Championship have been tremendous! Some great games, great goals and impeccably well behaved fans! The Dutch fans brought colour and noise to the tournament, the Turks brought that touch of unbelievable fairytale ending and the Russians surprised us all!
With no reports of hooliganism, no violence or yobbish behaviour being reported, what explains this surprising turn of events? Could it possibly be the absence of England (and the English fans) in this year’s tournament? I mean the supporters of the 3 lions don’t exactly have a good reputation do they?
France 98 was marred as 100 English fans were arrested for clashes with local North Africans in Marseilles. Do you remember the threat made by UEFA during Euro 2000? Due to poor behaviour by fans, England was threatened with expulsion from the tournament.
Violence and irresponsible behaviour by fans mars the beautiful game. It frightens people and prevents genuine supporters from travelling to support their country (if and when they qualify for tournaments!). In recent years the visibility of young people and women, old people and families travelling to support team and country has been welcomed. If this trend is to continue to flourish, the footballing authority must pursue a zero tolerance policy towards hooliganism!
… On a completely separate note! COME ON TURKEY!!!
Good observation.
Come on England