A 20-year-old man accused of stabbing two Celtic fans outside the Houses of Parliament has walked free from court.
Nicholas Marshall was accused of knifing Sean Laverty in the stomach following a confrontation at a bus stop ahead of a Champions League match in London. Mr Laverty suffered a lacerated liver and severe internal bleeding following the incident, while fellow Hoops fan Henry McIver also sustained a hand injury in the struggle.
Marshall fled the scene pursued by more travelling supporters of the Glasgow club, but was tracked down after he dropped his wallet at the scene. Following a week-long trial at Southwark Crown Court, Marshall was acquitted of wounding with intent, after he told jurors he had been "scared" of the rowdy Scottish fans.
Mr Laverty had driven to London with his father Dennis and two friends on August 26 last year to watch the second leg of Celtic's Champions League qualifying round tie against Arsenal. The group spent the day drinking in the area around Trafalgar Square.
Shortly after 6pm, they headed to Whitehall, near Parliament Square, to catch a bus to a pub where they planned to watch the game. Marshall arrived at the bus stop shortly afterwards on his way home from his work as a warehouse assistant packing sunglasses for delivery around the UK.
Eyewitnesses reported seeing a struggle break out before the defendant appeared to pull a knife from his bag and stab Mr Laverty in the stomach. Marshall told the jury that the Celtic fans and Mr Laverty in particular had been aggressive and racist towards him as he minded his own business, surrounding him and calling him a "black c***".
He said he grabbed a large pair of scissors he used to cut bubble-wrap at work out of his bag and waved it around to ward them off. He said: "I was scared. I felt punches and kicks. I thought I was going to get stabbed."
Marshall said he had waved the scissors around, but did not realise he had made contact with either Mr Laverty or Mr McIver. The jury took less than two hours to find him not guilty.
Marshall, of Waterway Avenue, Lewisham, had denied wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and unlawful wounding throughout his trial.
http://news.stv.tv/scotland/west-central/186673-20-year-old-cleared-of-stabbing-celtic-fans-in-london/
Friday, July 30, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Two fans in court after fights and flair incident at Celtic friendly with Lincoln City
A CELTIC fan was hit by a flare as she watched the Hoops play Lincoln City in a pre-season friendly.
The incident was one of several flashpoints during and after the match, which resulted in 20 arrests.
Two Scots fans, Stuart Stanley, 32, of Uddingston, Lanarkshire, and Adam Pollock, 24, of Pollok, Glasgow, were held in custody over the weekend.
They were charged with fighting in the street and freed on bail yesterday.
Both will appear at Lincoln magistrates court on August 17.
Five fans, including the girl, were injured as a result of the violence. All went to hospital but were released after treatment.
Local police said a St George's flag was set on fire outside the Golden Cross pub before the match and tensions were heightened by pro-IRA chants.
A smoke grenade was set off.
After the game, which Celtic won 4-1, there were a number of fights involving rival fans.
Of the 20 arrests, 12 were locals and eight were visiting supporters.
More than 1000 Celtic fans travelled south for the match at the Sincil Bank Stadium on Saturday.
Football intelligence officer PC Andy Pearson said: "There was some disorder at the Golden Cross pub and some after the match.
"A lot of that came from the inflammatory nature of the songs from Celtic fans. Many of the incidents were fuelled by alcohol.
"We will be seeking banning orders for those arrested."
Before the match, police had to deal with a fight between two Celtic supporters in the city and a separate brawl in the away end of the ground.
During the game, a number of flares and smoke canisters were set off in the stadium.
There were further problems outside the Golden Cross where five of the arrests were made.
Af terwards officers were called to several fights on the lower end of the High Street where rival supporters clashed.
Lincoln City, who are in England's League Two, are managed by ex-Celtic striker Chris Sutton.
http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2010/07/27/two-fans-in-court-after-fights-and-flair-incident-at-celtic-friendly-with-lincoln-city-86908-22443260/
Four charged after violence at Celtic friendly in Lincoln
Violence: Some members of the Celtic support clashed with each other prior to the Lincoln game Pic: © SNS Group
Two Celtic followers from Glasgow have been charged with affray after violence flared at the Glasgow club’s friendly with Lincoln at the weekend.
Stuart Stanley, 32, and 24-year-old Adam Pollock were both remanded in custody after they were charged with fighting in the street. On Monday morning, they were both released on bail and are expected to appear at Lincoln Magistrates Court to enter a plea on August 17. They were among 20 fans who were arrested in connection with violence before, during and after Celtic’s 4-1 over Lincoln on Saturday.
A statement from Lincolnshire Police said 12 of the 20 who were arrested were from the Lincoln area. The remaining eight were described by the force as ‘visitors’, who are understood to have been from Scotland. The police say there were a number of problems in various locations across Lincoln after Celtic supporters arrived in the city.
In particular, there was trouble around the Golden Cross pub in the city’s High Street. Two Celtic supporters were also arrested for fighting each other near Lincoln’s Sincil Bank stadium. There was also a fight in the Celtic end of the of stadium before the game kicked off.
During the match, police said a number of flares and smoke canisters were set off. One girl in the Celtic end was injured by one of those flares. There was also further problems at the Golden Cross during the game, where five people were arrested.
Following the match, police say there were a number of fights on the lower end of the High Street where rival supporters clashed. Further arrests were made on the High Street in the vicinity of The Millers Arms and Ritz Phase. In total, five people were taken to hospital, including the girl injured by the flare.
Mr Stanley, whose address was given in court as Calderbrace Avenue, and Mr Pollock, of Blackstone Crescent, were charged along with Jason Dumphreys, 40, from Lincoln, and Benjamin Mole, 24, from Bassingham. Mr Dumphreys and Mr Mole were both charged with other public order offences.
The remaining 16 people who were arrested have been bailed while police carry out further enquiries.
http://news.stv.tv/scotland/west-central/188496-four-charged-after-violence-at-celtic-friendly-in-lincoln/
Monday, July 26, 2010
Child burned by Celtic Hooligans
Delcot Daily Times
Published: Thursday, July 15, 2010
By CINDY SCHARR, cscharr@delcotimes.com
CHESTER – Three diehard Celtic FC fans allegedly set off flares in the middle of a packed PPL Park Wednesday night, sending flames shooting into the air and endangering those around them, police said.
Flames from the flares could be seen shooting up from the middle of the crowd during the final minutes of the match.
“These guys decided to come down here and be fools,” said Chester Police Major Joseph Bail. “It was a mixture of childish behavior and brown bottle courage.”
The three were with a group of Celtic fans who traveled by bus to the Chester stadium from New York for the game against the Philadelphia Union, police said.
Sitting in the middle of the stadium, they set off larger railroad-type flares, Bail said.
“One kid had a burn on his arm, the other had a burn on the back of his shirt,” Bail said. “Luckily no one else was burned.”
One of the hooligans was very cooperative and was released from custody.
The unnamed man will be receiving a non-traffic summons in the mail.
Criminal charges of persistent disorderly conduct and recklessly endangering others were filed against James Andrew Shields, 29, of the Bronx, and Kevin John Diamond, 33, of Queens.
Shields and Diamond were arraigned by Magisterial District Judge Robert Blythe, who set bail at 10 percent of $50,000. The two were waiting to be transferred to Delaware County prison Thursday afternoon.
Two other people were stopped outside of the stadium for scalping tickets. They were warned and the tickets confiscated.
Four charged over Lincoln City match disorder
Four men have been charged over disorder at Lincoln City's pre-season friendly with Celtic.
Flares and smoke canisters were discharged and several rival supporters clashed before, during and after Saturday's match at Sincil Bank.
Five people were injured, including a girl who was hit by a flare. They were treated in hospital.
The four men are charged with public order offences and are due before Lincoln magistrates later.
Twenty people were arrested in total, with the remainder released on police bail pending further inquiries.
Three fixed penalty notices were issued for public disorder offences.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-lincolnshire-10759672
Disgraceful Celtic fans fight at friendly
Sadly, there were utterly disgraceful scenes before the kick-off, when clearly drunken so-called fans in Celtic strips - mindless hoopigans, you might say - fought among themselves after one idiot let off a flare and others sang republican songs.
The police soon intervened, but the moronic actions of a few had spoiled the fun of the 3,780 crowd on Lincoln City's family day out.
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/sport/Lincoln-City-1--4.6438582.jp
The police soon intervened, but the moronic actions of a few had spoiled the fun of the 3,780 crowd on Lincoln City's family day out.
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/sport/Lincoln-City-1--4.6438582.jp
Celtic fans battle in Lincoln injuring young Girl
POLICE made 20 arrests following Lincoln City's much anticipated pre-season friendly with Celtic.
Trouble blew up in the lower part of the High Street following the match on Saturday, with both Imps and Hoops fans being arrested.
The arrests were for assault, public order offences and one for possession of a flare. As the Echo went to press no one had been charged.
The Echo heard from passers-by in the High Street that a St George's flag was burned outside the Golden Cross and later pro-IRA and anti-military songs could be heard.
Between 2,000 and 4,000 Celtic fans were expected to travel to the city from all corners of the UK, but the total attendance at Sincil Bank was just 3,780.
Dozens of police officers and riot vans were present for most of the day.
The game went largely without incident apart from flares being let off and a scuffle between Celtic fans.
Lincolnshire Police's football intelligence officer PC Andy Pearson said: "It's fair to say it was a challenging day.
"There was some disorder at the Golden Cross pub and some after the match and a lot of that was flared by the inflammatory nature of the songs from Celtic fans. Many of the incidents were fuelled by alcohol.
"Apart from an incident between Celtic fans there were no problems at the ground.
"There were quite a number of police resources deployed and we will be seeking banning orders for those people arrested.
"The majority of the disorder was kept away from the precinct and shoppers, which was a priority."
Earlier in the day, a sea of green flooded the High Street as fans drank at the Golden Cross and the Ritz.
Many of those had travelled from Glasgow to see their hero, Imps manager Chris Sutton.
Tony Clark, 23, of Clydebank, set off for Lincoln at 5am.
He said: "Chris Sutton is my hero and I wanted to see him waving goodbye to the Celtic fans because he never said goodbye.
Sutton is regarded as a Celtic legend having scored 63 goals in 130 appearances at Parkhead between 2000 and 2006.
The striker helped the Glasgow club win three Scottish Premier League titles, two Scottish Cups and two Scottish League Cups, but many supporters feel he was not given a proper send-off when he departed in early 2006.
Mark Rambo, 23, said: "Chris Sutton is a hero, that's why we are all here."
Charlie Creane, landlord of the Golden Cross, said: "The fans were here just singing and drinking and that's as far as they went.
"I was cleaning up and there were about six Celtic fans leaving when some local youths came up and started taunting them.
"My daughter got caught in the crossfire and got a gash on her head."
http://www.thisislincolnshire.co.uk/news/20-Imps-Hoops-fans-arrested-trouble-flares-pre-season-friendly/article-2453727-detail/article.html
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Celtic fans slammed for glorifying terrorist bombings
The Scotsman
Published Date: 10 May 2010
By BARRY ANDERSON
"Celtic came to the fore after the interval and began performing to Lennon's tune. Certainly, the visitors' tenacity and probing shouldn't have been inspired by the IRA-fest being conducted in the Roseburn Stand. That was as needless as it was brainless."
Celtic manger Neil Lennon later said
"The fans were tremendous. They were behind us and really enjoyed themselves."
Read article in full at
http://edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/Hearts-12-Celtic-Hearts-take.6283425.jp
Published Date: 10 May 2010
By BARRY ANDERSON
"Celtic came to the fore after the interval and began performing to Lennon's tune. Certainly, the visitors' tenacity and probing shouldn't have been inspired by the IRA-fest being conducted in the Roseburn Stand. That was as needless as it was brainless."
Celtic manger Neil Lennon later said
"The fans were tremendous. They were behind us and really enjoyed themselves."
Read article in full at
http://edinburghnews.scotsman.com/sport/Hearts-12-Celtic-Hearts-take.6283425.jp
Celtic fans catalogue of death threats against footballer and his baby
Extracts from Rangers' Spanish football player Nacho Novo's autobiography.
http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/2967454/Play-in-Old-Firm-match-and-you-die.html#ixzz0nZSyzI5r
"NET neds, RIP slogans, death threats, car vandalism - then Celtic 'fans' put my ADDRESS on the internet.
I learned of it in an early evening call from a pal and was sent into a fury.
Who? Where? Why? B*******! What the... ?
So many thoughts started to go through my mind. What's going to happen now? Will anyone try anything? They better not come near my family.
A Celtic 'fans' forum had posted my full home address and my car registration number. They were urging people to come and pay me and my family 'a visit'.
It's common knowledge when Rangers play all their away games. What if someone came to the house when I was away? I would not have my family under threat.
That night, the club arranged for plainclothes security guys to sit in a car outside my house.
I was advised that, for my family's safety, and mine, they'd be there around the clock for two weeks. I couldn't believe it had come to this. But I had no option. Now I was always under the impression that everything you did online was traceable.
Here we were with conclusive proof of who posted my full home address and my car registration number. Surely an open-and-shut case?
Well, if anyone was ever arrested over the incident then someone forgot to tell me. The whole internet saga led to a new song.
It's not quite as sinister as wanting me to die in my sleep from a bullet from the IRA, which was the other one I used to hear being sung at me during Old Firm games.
This new song proclaimed that the Celtic support 'know where you stay Nacho Novo'. And they did. Thanks to some anonymous internet coward. Every time I play at Celtic there's an individual who waits at the side of the bus and abuses me in Spanish when we walk off to go into the stadium - it's as if he goes out of his way to try to offend me.
The reality is I am embarrassed for him, he's so driven by hate that he queues up simply to abuse me. According to what he shouts at me, because I am Spanish that must make me a Catholic and as a Catholic I should never have signed for Rangers.
I've disgraced my religion by choosing the blue half of Glasgow. The only problem I have with all this is I'm NOT a Catholic - in fact I'm not very religious at all. That doesn't seem to matter to him though.Another phone call back in January sounded all too familiar.
'Have you seen what they've done on the internet this time? They've set up a Facebook page looking for a million people to say they hate you.'
I started to laugh, it's all so juvenile and sad.
'That's not all Nacho. They've said some things, some things about you and Javier'. I lost the plot - Javier, my baby son, was only in this world a matter of days and there was no need to bring him into it.
I tried to calm myself down. However, it was in the wake of the petrol attack on DaMarcus Beasley's car and some internet hardman had decided he wanted my car registration number so he could burn my new baby son and me alive.
THE envelope that lay on the doormat in my fiancee's Inverkip flat delivered the chilling threat.
There was no name on the front but there was no doubt who it was aimed at.
The scrawled writing said: "If you play against Celtic on Sunday, you will get ******g done in. We'll kill you, you Rangers b******."
I read it a couple of times before it sank in. A crucial Old Firm clash at Parkhead in February 2005 was looming and the off-field problems I'd encountered since signing for Rangers had escalated to a whole new level.
There had been some unsavoury incidents but Donna, my fiancee, and I had tried not to let it bother us. They were morons, scum, I would say to her.
But this was a DEATH THREAT. I didn't know what to do.
My fear was that if the police had come to see me and had a look at the letter - and it had then leaked to the press which would have been extremely likely - there would be a huge circus before the game. That was the last thing I wanted.
Donna and I decided to keep it between us. Looking back, maybe that wasn't the right call. But would they have found the person responsible? Highly unlikely.
I was a shaken by the whole thing, concerned for Donna and the two boys, Dylan and Ross, as she would be in the flat herself over the next few days.
I felt the best option would be to ignore it, answer these scumbags ON the pitch. I was determined to go out and show them that I would not be intimidated by anyone or anything.
I played and scored the second goal as we won 2-0.
There have been some really disturbing things I've had to endure as a Rangers player in Glasgow.
Forget the car trashings and numerous tyre-slashings - I was attacked in the street in broad daylight in the middle of Glasgow out shopping with my family!
We didn't bother too much with reporting a catalogue of car vandalism to the police. Maybe we should have, things were about to take a sinister turn.
I'd just scored my first goal against Celtic in a 2-0 win at Ibrox. I never go out after Old Firm matches into the city and just went back to Donna's flat.
The next day we just lounged around and watched some DVDs.
I was very tired and slept a lot as I always do after games.
On the Sunday night we went out to get a takeaway. Both of us jumped into the car and as we drove out the lights shone on the huge fence around the building.
'Novo RIP' had been painted in huge, white letters.
Donna and I still laugh about this as my English wasn't the greatest. As I stared at the graffiti I kept saying: "Novo rip, Novo rip". She sighed: "Nacho, that means Rest In Peace. It's what they say when people die!"
I was going off my head. I couldn't believe that someone would do such a thing, daub such a sickening message outside where your fiancee lived.
We reported it to the police. Rangers were also very concerned and the club's security people talked to the police to air their concerns about the amount of things that were going on without anyone ever being caught.
That pleased me, but didn't fully put my mind at rest. There was always a lingering fear things could start up again. They did.
Myself, Dylan, Ross, Donna and her aunt Maureen had been enjoying a day's shopping.
Out of nowhere this guy ran alongside me and the next thing - bang - he turned, looked at me square-on and punched me right on the side of the face.
I was dazed. Donna hadn't seen what had happened as it was over so quickly but Maureen was shouting: "That guy just punched Nacho."
The guy turned and started running. He had been drinking in a pub on the corner. I flipped. I took off after him and caught up quickly.
I tripped him up. I was in a rage. How dare he punch me for no reason in front of my family?
I started laying in to him as he scrambled about on the ground. He was outside the door of the pub now and Donna, the kids and Maureen soon arrived and tried to haul me away.
Some of the guys in the pub emerged at the door, as did the manager.
I stopped hitting the guy and he was held up in the doorway of the pub. I was going mad, shouting and bawling at him. My face was stinging. He had smacked me big-time.
His pal said to Donna when she asked what the hell he was playing at: "We were sitting having a pint. He was just looking out the window and he said 'Hold on, I'll be back in a minute' before he put his pint down.
"The next thing he ran out the door. He's a Celtic fan. He doesn't like Novo."
This guy hated me so much that he would leave his friends while having a quiet drink, run outside a bar and sneak up on a footballer and punch him because he didn't like him. I was livid.
I just shook my head and walked away. He muttered: "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it."
But he'd meant it alright."
-----------------------
Link to the monstrous Facebook page mentioned above set up and supported by Celtic fans.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Glasgow-United-Kingdom/I-bet-i-can-find-a-million-people-who-hate-that-little-rat-Nacho-Novo/237651989113
Craigmillar/Gilmerton Celtic Supporters Club sing Celtic Park anthem about Nacho Novo being murdered "by a bullet from the IRA"
www.bebo.com/craigmillarceltic
http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/2967454/Play-in-Old-Firm-match-and-you-die.html#ixzz0nZSyzI5r
"NET neds, RIP slogans, death threats, car vandalism - then Celtic 'fans' put my ADDRESS on the internet.
I learned of it in an early evening call from a pal and was sent into a fury.
Who? Where? Why? B*******! What the... ?
So many thoughts started to go through my mind. What's going to happen now? Will anyone try anything? They better not come near my family.
A Celtic 'fans' forum had posted my full home address and my car registration number. They were urging people to come and pay me and my family 'a visit'.
It's common knowledge when Rangers play all their away games. What if someone came to the house when I was away? I would not have my family under threat.
That night, the club arranged for plainclothes security guys to sit in a car outside my house.
I was advised that, for my family's safety, and mine, they'd be there around the clock for two weeks. I couldn't believe it had come to this. But I had no option. Now I was always under the impression that everything you did online was traceable.
Here we were with conclusive proof of who posted my full home address and my car registration number. Surely an open-and-shut case?
Well, if anyone was ever arrested over the incident then someone forgot to tell me. The whole internet saga led to a new song.
It's not quite as sinister as wanting me to die in my sleep from a bullet from the IRA, which was the other one I used to hear being sung at me during Old Firm games.
This new song proclaimed that the Celtic support 'know where you stay Nacho Novo'. And they did. Thanks to some anonymous internet coward. Every time I play at Celtic there's an individual who waits at the side of the bus and abuses me in Spanish when we walk off to go into the stadium - it's as if he goes out of his way to try to offend me.
The reality is I am embarrassed for him, he's so driven by hate that he queues up simply to abuse me. According to what he shouts at me, because I am Spanish that must make me a Catholic and as a Catholic I should never have signed for Rangers.
I've disgraced my religion by choosing the blue half of Glasgow. The only problem I have with all this is I'm NOT a Catholic - in fact I'm not very religious at all. That doesn't seem to matter to him though.Another phone call back in January sounded all too familiar.
'Have you seen what they've done on the internet this time? They've set up a Facebook page looking for a million people to say they hate you.'
I started to laugh, it's all so juvenile and sad.
'That's not all Nacho. They've said some things, some things about you and Javier'. I lost the plot - Javier, my baby son, was only in this world a matter of days and there was no need to bring him into it.
I tried to calm myself down. However, it was in the wake of the petrol attack on DaMarcus Beasley's car and some internet hardman had decided he wanted my car registration number so he could burn my new baby son and me alive.
THE envelope that lay on the doormat in my fiancee's Inverkip flat delivered the chilling threat.
There was no name on the front but there was no doubt who it was aimed at.
The scrawled writing said: "If you play against Celtic on Sunday, you will get ******g done in. We'll kill you, you Rangers b******."
I read it a couple of times before it sank in. A crucial Old Firm clash at Parkhead in February 2005 was looming and the off-field problems I'd encountered since signing for Rangers had escalated to a whole new level.
There had been some unsavoury incidents but Donna, my fiancee, and I had tried not to let it bother us. They were morons, scum, I would say to her.
But this was a DEATH THREAT. I didn't know what to do.
My fear was that if the police had come to see me and had a look at the letter - and it had then leaked to the press which would have been extremely likely - there would be a huge circus before the game. That was the last thing I wanted.
Donna and I decided to keep it between us. Looking back, maybe that wasn't the right call. But would they have found the person responsible? Highly unlikely.
I was a shaken by the whole thing, concerned for Donna and the two boys, Dylan and Ross, as she would be in the flat herself over the next few days.
I felt the best option would be to ignore it, answer these scumbags ON the pitch. I was determined to go out and show them that I would not be intimidated by anyone or anything.
I played and scored the second goal as we won 2-0.
There have been some really disturbing things I've had to endure as a Rangers player in Glasgow.
Forget the car trashings and numerous tyre-slashings - I was attacked in the street in broad daylight in the middle of Glasgow out shopping with my family!
We didn't bother too much with reporting a catalogue of car vandalism to the police. Maybe we should have, things were about to take a sinister turn.
I'd just scored my first goal against Celtic in a 2-0 win at Ibrox. I never go out after Old Firm matches into the city and just went back to Donna's flat.
The next day we just lounged around and watched some DVDs.
I was very tired and slept a lot as I always do after games.
On the Sunday night we went out to get a takeaway. Both of us jumped into the car and as we drove out the lights shone on the huge fence around the building.
'Novo RIP' had been painted in huge, white letters.
Donna and I still laugh about this as my English wasn't the greatest. As I stared at the graffiti I kept saying: "Novo rip, Novo rip". She sighed: "Nacho, that means Rest In Peace. It's what they say when people die!"
I was going off my head. I couldn't believe that someone would do such a thing, daub such a sickening message outside where your fiancee lived.
We reported it to the police. Rangers were also very concerned and the club's security people talked to the police to air their concerns about the amount of things that were going on without anyone ever being caught.
That pleased me, but didn't fully put my mind at rest. There was always a lingering fear things could start up again. They did.
Myself, Dylan, Ross, Donna and her aunt Maureen had been enjoying a day's shopping.
Out of nowhere this guy ran alongside me and the next thing - bang - he turned, looked at me square-on and punched me right on the side of the face.
I was dazed. Donna hadn't seen what had happened as it was over so quickly but Maureen was shouting: "That guy just punched Nacho."
The guy turned and started running. He had been drinking in a pub on the corner. I flipped. I took off after him and caught up quickly.
I tripped him up. I was in a rage. How dare he punch me for no reason in front of my family?
I started laying in to him as he scrambled about on the ground. He was outside the door of the pub now and Donna, the kids and Maureen soon arrived and tried to haul me away.
Some of the guys in the pub emerged at the door, as did the manager.
I stopped hitting the guy and he was held up in the doorway of the pub. I was going mad, shouting and bawling at him. My face was stinging. He had smacked me big-time.
His pal said to Donna when she asked what the hell he was playing at: "We were sitting having a pint. He was just looking out the window and he said 'Hold on, I'll be back in a minute' before he put his pint down.
"The next thing he ran out the door. He's a Celtic fan. He doesn't like Novo."
This guy hated me so much that he would leave his friends while having a quiet drink, run outside a bar and sneak up on a footballer and punch him because he didn't like him. I was livid.
I just shook my head and walked away. He muttered: "I'm sorry, I didn't mean it."
But he'd meant it alright."
-----------------------
Link to the monstrous Facebook page mentioned above set up and supported by Celtic fans.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Glasgow-United-Kingdom/I-bet-i-can-find-a-million-people-who-hate-that-little-rat-Nacho-Novo/237651989113
Craigmillar/Gilmerton Celtic Supporters Club sing Celtic Park anthem about Nacho Novo being murdered "by a bullet from the IRA"
www.bebo.com/craigmillarceltic
Monday, May 10, 2010
Celtic rioters caged
Celtic fans had to be dragged from a train by Strathclyde Police at Glasgow Queen Street yesterday (9/5/10) after rioting reportedly broke out between Celtic fans on the journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow.
Friday, April 30, 2010
ANTI BIGOTRY CAMPAIGNERS PROTEST AT VISIT OF CELTIC
http://www.express.co.uk/posts/view/172302/Seattle-fans-protest-at-visit-of-Celtic
CELTIC are facing protests over their summer friendly in Seattle - just 24 hours after their Old Firm clash with Rangers in Boston was thrown into doubt.
Plans for a July 21 clash between Scottish football's Big Two at Fenway Park baseball stadium are in the balance after the Boston Globe newspaper launched a campaign to have the game called off in fear that Ibrox fans will riot in the American city.
And despite blundering media bosses last night issuing a grovelling apology for their slur on the Rangers support feelings are running high that the proposed July 21 " friendly " should be abandoned.
Now, Seattle Sounders General Manager Adrian Hanauer has confirmed a group of his supporters are unhappy at Celtic being chosen for a July 18 showdown at Qwest Field due to the " political baggage" they claim the club carries !
Representatives of anti-bigotry organisation Gorilla Fan Collective, Seattle's second-biggest supporters group, stated earlier this month that they didn't want Celtic or Rangers to be considered for challenge matches and have now been backed by the Emerald City Supporters Group .
Fans' internet forums are buzzing with arguments over the wisdom of hosting Celtic and Hanauer has confirmed club bosses are aware of unrest.
Hanauer said "I caught wind of it.This was the first I've heard of people being upset with Celtic coming.But soccer has been a political game over the years and just about every team we could think of bringing has some political baggage that it carries.
"I was thinking about Barcelona coming last year. There's a strong movement and conflict between Barcelona and Real Madrid and that's deeply rooted politically.
CELTIC are facing protests over their summer friendly in Seattle - just 24 hours after their Old Firm clash with Rangers in Boston was thrown into doubt.
Plans for a July 21 clash between Scottish football's Big Two at Fenway Park baseball stadium are in the balance after the Boston Globe newspaper launched a campaign to have the game called off in fear that Ibrox fans will riot in the American city.
And despite blundering media bosses last night issuing a grovelling apology for their slur on the Rangers support feelings are running high that the proposed July 21 " friendly " should be abandoned.
Now, Seattle Sounders General Manager Adrian Hanauer has confirmed a group of his supporters are unhappy at Celtic being chosen for a July 18 showdown at Qwest Field due to the " political baggage" they claim the club carries !
Representatives of anti-bigotry organisation Gorilla Fan Collective, Seattle's second-biggest supporters group, stated earlier this month that they didn't want Celtic or Rangers to be considered for challenge matches and have now been backed by the Emerald City Supporters Group .
Fans' internet forums are buzzing with arguments over the wisdom of hosting Celtic and Hanauer has confirmed club bosses are aware of unrest.
Hanauer said "I caught wind of it.This was the first I've heard of people being upset with Celtic coming.But soccer has been a political game over the years and just about every team we could think of bringing has some political baggage that it carries.
"I was thinking about Barcelona coming last year. There's a strong movement and conflict between Barcelona and Real Madrid and that's deeply rooted politically.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
'Best fans in world? It doesn't look like it'
http://sport.scotsman.com/division-1/Alan-Pattullo-Best-fans-in.6244649.jp
By Alan Pattullo
CELTIC supporters are having to indulge in a lot of slightly embarrassed shuffling of feet at the moment.
They don't know where to look. It's bad enough when one of their player of the year awards goes to someone who only joined the club on loan at the end of January. But they must also deal with the horror of seeing a great corner stone of the club's reputation kicked away in recent weeks.
• Swathes of empty seats at Celtic Park have been evident at recent games. Picture: SNS
The ever-swelling number of Celtic fans estimated to have followed their team to Seville for the Uefa Cup final seven years ago has become something of a running joke. Over the last fortnight it has been suggested that the tendency to exaggerate is still apparent in the east end of Glasgow.
One newspaper report claimed that no more than 15,000 could have attended the first post-Ross County game, when Motherwell were the visitors to an eerily quiet Celtic Park. Celtic have been quick to refute this, although the club's own stated figure – 22,000 – still does not do much for the fans' reputation – admittedly, one that is largely self-appointed – for being prepared to go that extra mile for their club. Not that this attendance is recorded on the club's official website. The crowds at the last two fixtures are logged as "unknown". The last recorded attendance is for the game against Kilmarnock at the end of last month, when 41,000 – almost 20,000 below capacity – were present.
Many Celtic fans are alert to the problems being stored up by claiming – via such songs as Over and Over – that they are faithful through and through. Because when it comes to the crunch, they clearly aren't. This isn't to say they are any worse than fans of other clubs, but when their own shtick is the claim to be the most loyal supporters in the world they surely cannot be surprised if such a low attendance is remarked upon.
Last Saturday's attendance, for the visit of Hibernian, was slightly better, but anyone who caught the match on television could not fail to be distracted by the acres of empty seats which formed the background to the action. It will be interesting to note whether the visit of Dick Advocaat's AZ Alkmaar will prove tempting next midweek in a game designed to appease season-ticket holders owed a game due to the absence of home Scottish Cup ties this season.
Many Celtic fans, alert to having set themselves up for a fall through years of self-mythologising, had braced themselves for low turn-outs at the end of one of the bleakest seasons in recent times. They have duly got them, even if some present at the last two home league games believe far fewer than claimed attended. This isn't so, according to a Celtic spokesman yesterday. He also denied that all season-ticket holders, whether they attended the game or not, were included in an effort to help swell the total. The club has been accused of this ploy in the past when seeking to massage crowd figures. The figure against Motherwell was comprised solely of those who clicked through the turnstiles – or at least, in this digital age, bleeped through them.
But how are we to judge quality of supporters in any case? Over 7,000 – more than 2,000 more than the population of Dingwall itself – watched Ross County gain the result which has all but finished Celtic's season. But this is a one-off occasion. The First Division side have not played at home since, but it is fair to say this number won't cram into Victoria Park on Saturday when they host Partick Thistle. Yet, their last home fixture was watched by just over 2,000 – not bad in terms of population/attendance ratio. The Celtic attendance, in comparison to those who travelled down from the Highlands, was, though, undeniably pitiful. Just over 16,000 felt compelled to support the team in a game which represented Celtic's last chance to win a trophy this season, and which took place just four miles from Celtic Park. This fact alone is enough to warrant being stripped of any 'best supporters' title, if it was possible to even award such a thing.
In reality, Celtic fans are no better and no worse than fans of any other club. They are as fickle as the rest and will be attracted by the thought of watching a winning team. If what they see instead is a team in a state of some distress then many Celtic fans remain consistent with one part of their great supporters' anthem. They walk on.
By Alan Pattullo
CELTIC supporters are having to indulge in a lot of slightly embarrassed shuffling of feet at the moment.
They don't know where to look. It's bad enough when one of their player of the year awards goes to someone who only joined the club on loan at the end of January. But they must also deal with the horror of seeing a great corner stone of the club's reputation kicked away in recent weeks.
• Swathes of empty seats at Celtic Park have been evident at recent games. Picture: SNS
The ever-swelling number of Celtic fans estimated to have followed their team to Seville for the Uefa Cup final seven years ago has become something of a running joke. Over the last fortnight it has been suggested that the tendency to exaggerate is still apparent in the east end of Glasgow.
One newspaper report claimed that no more than 15,000 could have attended the first post-Ross County game, when Motherwell were the visitors to an eerily quiet Celtic Park. Celtic have been quick to refute this, although the club's own stated figure – 22,000 – still does not do much for the fans' reputation – admittedly, one that is largely self-appointed – for being prepared to go that extra mile for their club. Not that this attendance is recorded on the club's official website. The crowds at the last two fixtures are logged as "unknown". The last recorded attendance is for the game against Kilmarnock at the end of last month, when 41,000 – almost 20,000 below capacity – were present.
Many Celtic fans are alert to the problems being stored up by claiming – via such songs as Over and Over – that they are faithful through and through. Because when it comes to the crunch, they clearly aren't. This isn't to say they are any worse than fans of other clubs, but when their own shtick is the claim to be the most loyal supporters in the world they surely cannot be surprised if such a low attendance is remarked upon.
Last Saturday's attendance, for the visit of Hibernian, was slightly better, but anyone who caught the match on television could not fail to be distracted by the acres of empty seats which formed the background to the action. It will be interesting to note whether the visit of Dick Advocaat's AZ Alkmaar will prove tempting next midweek in a game designed to appease season-ticket holders owed a game due to the absence of home Scottish Cup ties this season.
Many Celtic fans, alert to having set themselves up for a fall through years of self-mythologising, had braced themselves for low turn-outs at the end of one of the bleakest seasons in recent times. They have duly got them, even if some present at the last two home league games believe far fewer than claimed attended. This isn't so, according to a Celtic spokesman yesterday. He also denied that all season-ticket holders, whether they attended the game or not, were included in an effort to help swell the total. The club has been accused of this ploy in the past when seeking to massage crowd figures. The figure against Motherwell was comprised solely of those who clicked through the turnstiles – or at least, in this digital age, bleeped through them.
But how are we to judge quality of supporters in any case? Over 7,000 – more than 2,000 more than the population of Dingwall itself – watched Ross County gain the result which has all but finished Celtic's season. But this is a one-off occasion. The First Division side have not played at home since, but it is fair to say this number won't cram into Victoria Park on Saturday when they host Partick Thistle. Yet, their last home fixture was watched by just over 2,000 – not bad in terms of population/attendance ratio. The Celtic attendance, in comparison to those who travelled down from the Highlands, was, though, undeniably pitiful. Just over 16,000 felt compelled to support the team in a game which represented Celtic's last chance to win a trophy this season, and which took place just four miles from Celtic Park. This fact alone is enough to warrant being stripped of any 'best supporters' title, if it was possible to even award such a thing.
In reality, Celtic fans are no better and no worse than fans of any other club. They are as fickle as the rest and will be attracted by the thought of watching a winning team. If what they see instead is a team in a state of some distress then many Celtic fans remain consistent with one part of their great supporters' anthem. They walk on.
Monday, April 19, 2010
CELTIC FANS SPIT ON THEIR OWN PLAYERS
http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/football/spl/celtic/2010/04/09/bobby-petta-neil-lennon-knows-he-can-t-afford-to-lose-to-ross-county-86908-22172823/
Daily Record
Apr 9 2010 Hugh Keevins
Petta:Lennon knows he can't afford another Caley disaster
BOBBY PETTA was ordered to stay in Celtic's dressing room as emotions ran high outside.
Then Petta was told it would only be safe to leave for his car if he was flanked by two burly security guards.
That still didn't prevent the midfielder being booed and spat at by disgusted fans as they tried to come to terms with Celtic losing to Inverness Caley Thistle in the Scottish Cup.
Ten years on the memory is still fresh for Petta - who didn't even play the night Celtic were humiliated and John Barnes' card was marked for dismissal.
Now Petta's back in Glasgow ready for Hampden tomorrow and the latest clash between Celtic and Highland opposition.
And past experience tells him the game with Ross County has the potential to be a ticking bomb for his former team-mate Neil Lennon.
Petta said: "If Celtic win the Cup it strengthens Lenny's chance of getting the manager's job.
"If he loses to a First Division side then there's a problem - that should never happen to a club like Celtic.
"But if Ross County don't believe they can cause an upset then they shouldn't bother making the journey down from Dingwall.
"They have the example of Inverness to inspire them.
"And I can see similarities between what's happening at Celtic now and the way the club was a decade ago."
Petta was signed by Barnes and had a first season to forget at Celtic Park.
But when the Caley result meant an immediate sacrifice in the manager's office Martin O'Neill came in and transformed the player's fortunes.
He said: "My last club was Sydney in Australia. And I would get people coming up to me in the street on the other side of the world from Glasgow and telling me I had given them the happiest day of their lives.
"They were talking about the first Old Firm game we played under Martin as manager.
"Celtic won 6-2 and I had a big day up against Fernando Ricksen who was taken off in the first half.
"That's the flipside of being with a club like Celtic and having fans so passionate. One minute you're running to your car with minders, the next you're a hero. It's frightening when you're on the way down and thrilling when you're moving in the opposite direction.
"Lenny knows all about that side of life in Glasgow. It shows great character on his part to live in the city and want to be Celtic's manager when he's had so many well-publicised problems."
Petta's previous brush with humiliation - being an unused sub on the night Caley Thistle won 3-1 at Celtic Park - has given him an insight into what he'd like to see Celtic do at Hampden tomorrow.
He said: "They must set their stall out early and go for quick goals to make sure there will be no embarrassment.
"A new manager's all about a fresh start for everyone and Celtic have to dominate the opposition on that big park at Hampden."
Petta well remembers the fans' reactions 10 years ago.
He said: "My abiding memory of what was the worst night of my life is the way emotions ran so high. It wasn't a nice night for anyone associated with the club.
"Anything's possible in cup football. But Lenny's started off with two wins out of two.
"I don't think he'll have to be as quick to his car as I was after the cup -tie I'll never forget."
Daily Record
Apr 9 2010 Hugh Keevins
Petta:Lennon knows he can't afford another Caley disaster
BOBBY PETTA was ordered to stay in Celtic's dressing room as emotions ran high outside.
Then Petta was told it would only be safe to leave for his car if he was flanked by two burly security guards.
That still didn't prevent the midfielder being booed and spat at by disgusted fans as they tried to come to terms with Celtic losing to Inverness Caley Thistle in the Scottish Cup.
Ten years on the memory is still fresh for Petta - who didn't even play the night Celtic were humiliated and John Barnes' card was marked for dismissal.
Now Petta's back in Glasgow ready for Hampden tomorrow and the latest clash between Celtic and Highland opposition.
And past experience tells him the game with Ross County has the potential to be a ticking bomb for his former team-mate Neil Lennon.
Petta said: "If Celtic win the Cup it strengthens Lenny's chance of getting the manager's job.
"If he loses to a First Division side then there's a problem - that should never happen to a club like Celtic.
"But if Ross County don't believe they can cause an upset then they shouldn't bother making the journey down from Dingwall.
"They have the example of Inverness to inspire them.
"And I can see similarities between what's happening at Celtic now and the way the club was a decade ago."
Petta was signed by Barnes and had a first season to forget at Celtic Park.
But when the Caley result meant an immediate sacrifice in the manager's office Martin O'Neill came in and transformed the player's fortunes.
He said: "My last club was Sydney in Australia. And I would get people coming up to me in the street on the other side of the world from Glasgow and telling me I had given them the happiest day of their lives.
"They were talking about the first Old Firm game we played under Martin as manager.
"Celtic won 6-2 and I had a big day up against Fernando Ricksen who was taken off in the first half.
"That's the flipside of being with a club like Celtic and having fans so passionate. One minute you're running to your car with minders, the next you're a hero. It's frightening when you're on the way down and thrilling when you're moving in the opposite direction.
"Lenny knows all about that side of life in Glasgow. It shows great character on his part to live in the city and want to be Celtic's manager when he's had so many well-publicised problems."
Petta's previous brush with humiliation - being an unused sub on the night Caley Thistle won 3-1 at Celtic Park - has given him an insight into what he'd like to see Celtic do at Hampden tomorrow.
He said: "They must set their stall out early and go for quick goals to make sure there will be no embarrassment.
"A new manager's all about a fresh start for everyone and Celtic have to dominate the opposition on that big park at Hampden."
Petta well remembers the fans' reactions 10 years ago.
He said: "My abiding memory of what was the worst night of my life is the way emotions ran so high. It wasn't a nice night for anyone associated with the club.
"Anything's possible in cup football. But Lenny's started off with two wins out of two.
"I don't think he'll have to be as quick to his car as I was after the cup -tie I'll never forget."
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Celtic fans rampage through Newcastle
From the Newcastle Fanzine True Faith - July 2007
'View from the Newcastle fanzine
-----------------------------------
Celtic eh? No history of British football would be complete without reference to the remarkable club from Glasgow. Formed to raise money to provide relief for the poor of the East End of that famous city by Brother Walfrid and the Marist Order, the club has gone onto become one of the most famous the world over and has a romance attached to it few can compete with - Patsy Gallagher, Jimmy McGrory, the tragedy of John Thompson, Jock Stein, Billy McNeil (Ceasar) and the Lisbon Lions of 67 and a procession of top, top players who have lit up the game and played the game in a distinctive, Celtic way. A good way.
At Celtic Park, on the big occassion, the home support can generate a spine-tingling atmosphere and despite the advent of all-seater stadiums, the place can be a riot of colour and provides the backdrop for the way football should be. At SJP they had a display of flags in the Leazes that were excellent - the best we've had in NE1 for a long time. Well done to those responsible.
There are plenty on Tyneside who hold a candle for Celtic - the Irish-Scots diaspora has generated a quiet affection for the Glasgow club and having had Celtic down to SJP to provide the opposition for testimonials for two of our most loved players of the modern era (Beardsley and Shearer), we have viisted Celtic Park twice in the last ten-twelve years for their return from Hampden and for a friendly match - we should be getting on with them like a house on fire.
But we're not. And its not our fault. Celtic should not be invited back to Newcastle and it saddens me deeply to say it. Not for the first time has their support visted our city and generated sheer disgust at their behaviour. I'll say now there are plenty of Celtic fans who have visited Newcastle and behaved perfectly well and I'll freely concede there are elements within our support who are hardly angelic but there is a large section of Celtic's support in Newcastle who behave in a thoroughly obnoxious manner.
This isn't meant for the Celtic fans who have visited Newcastle, had a few pints, a sing-song, gone to the match and behaved themselves. Not at all. But they do bring some of the detrius of Scotland with them and despite the money generated for Newcastle United, their visits have to be put to an end. A good 30% of their following simply don't know how to behave and see these visits south as an opportunity to behave completely without a lack of regard, respect for our city and without dignity for Celtic Football Club.
Newcastle is a safe, modern, friendly, laid back city with loads going on - much like Glasgow - but we can't have it turned upside down because NUFC can get a good run out and earn a few shillings.
Around the city, Celtic fans left a trail of rubbish - as any self-respecting Geordie Mam would ask - I wonder what their homes are like - and as I made my way up Blackett St queues of absolutely stotting Celtic fans urinated in the streets in full view of women and children and appeared to take a delicious pride in their bone-headed behaviour.
Its not the vulgar displays of their Roman Catholicism - huge crucifixes prominently displayed by some who I'd guess haven't found their way into a Church for many a year - that's a matter for them, though it cheapens an ancient religion in a way none of their detractors could ever do. Not so much Catholic kitsch but bling. Its not even the renditions of irrelevant Rebel Songs but it is the constant abuse of Alan Shearer, which was meant to be provocative but were largely blanked by supporters inside SJP bemused by their hostility to a man who has no history with them, who I hear has attended games at Celtic Park with Shay Given and who spoke warmly of their support after his testimonial. I don't recall us getting so uptight about Larsson do you? Why should we? A fine player. Shameful that they have to abuse a player who didn't play against them in a proper fixture in order to sing the praises of one of their all time greatest players.
To abuse one of our club's most beloved sons wasn't annoying for us - it was strictly small time for them. The "Keano" chants were predictable but harmless - we'll put that under banter - we're not so po-faced we can't take a bit craic.
But most seriously the hail of bottles and glasses hurled towards St. Andrew's St. from Gallowgate, under the Chinese arch next to the Tyneside Irish Centre (who rumour tells me ironically weren't keen on being swamped by support from Scotland) by Celtic fans was criminally dangerous, completely indiscriminate and should end the invitations to Celtic Football Club to visit SJP. I saw bottles narrowly missing families and they were being thrown with wreckless intensity. Remember this was a game to which U-11s were encouraged with free admission. Again, I'm not suggesting our support was completely innocent but there is no question of provocation.
Its truly sad when a fanzine feels the need to call for a football club to be banned from our city because large numbers of their supporters can't conduct themselves acceptably . Sad and probably irrelevant.
And we won 4-1. We're not getting excited.'
'View from the Newcastle fanzine
-----------------------------------
Celtic eh? No history of British football would be complete without reference to the remarkable club from Glasgow. Formed to raise money to provide relief for the poor of the East End of that famous city by Brother Walfrid and the Marist Order, the club has gone onto become one of the most famous the world over and has a romance attached to it few can compete with - Patsy Gallagher, Jimmy McGrory, the tragedy of John Thompson, Jock Stein, Billy McNeil (Ceasar) and the Lisbon Lions of 67 and a procession of top, top players who have lit up the game and played the game in a distinctive, Celtic way. A good way.
At Celtic Park, on the big occassion, the home support can generate a spine-tingling atmosphere and despite the advent of all-seater stadiums, the place can be a riot of colour and provides the backdrop for the way football should be. At SJP they had a display of flags in the Leazes that were excellent - the best we've had in NE1 for a long time. Well done to those responsible.
There are plenty on Tyneside who hold a candle for Celtic - the Irish-Scots diaspora has generated a quiet affection for the Glasgow club and having had Celtic down to SJP to provide the opposition for testimonials for two of our most loved players of the modern era (Beardsley and Shearer), we have viisted Celtic Park twice in the last ten-twelve years for their return from Hampden and for a friendly match - we should be getting on with them like a house on fire.
But we're not. And its not our fault. Celtic should not be invited back to Newcastle and it saddens me deeply to say it. Not for the first time has their support visted our city and generated sheer disgust at their behaviour. I'll say now there are plenty of Celtic fans who have visited Newcastle and behaved perfectly well and I'll freely concede there are elements within our support who are hardly angelic but there is a large section of Celtic's support in Newcastle who behave in a thoroughly obnoxious manner.
This isn't meant for the Celtic fans who have visited Newcastle, had a few pints, a sing-song, gone to the match and behaved themselves. Not at all. But they do bring some of the detrius of Scotland with them and despite the money generated for Newcastle United, their visits have to be put to an end. A good 30% of their following simply don't know how to behave and see these visits south as an opportunity to behave completely without a lack of regard, respect for our city and without dignity for Celtic Football Club.
Newcastle is a safe, modern, friendly, laid back city with loads going on - much like Glasgow - but we can't have it turned upside down because NUFC can get a good run out and earn a few shillings.
Around the city, Celtic fans left a trail of rubbish - as any self-respecting Geordie Mam would ask - I wonder what their homes are like - and as I made my way up Blackett St queues of absolutely stotting Celtic fans urinated in the streets in full view of women and children and appeared to take a delicious pride in their bone-headed behaviour.
Its not the vulgar displays of their Roman Catholicism - huge crucifixes prominently displayed by some who I'd guess haven't found their way into a Church for many a year - that's a matter for them, though it cheapens an ancient religion in a way none of their detractors could ever do. Not so much Catholic kitsch but bling. Its not even the renditions of irrelevant Rebel Songs but it is the constant abuse of Alan Shearer, which was meant to be provocative but were largely blanked by supporters inside SJP bemused by their hostility to a man who has no history with them, who I hear has attended games at Celtic Park with Shay Given and who spoke warmly of their support after his testimonial. I don't recall us getting so uptight about Larsson do you? Why should we? A fine player. Shameful that they have to abuse a player who didn't play against them in a proper fixture in order to sing the praises of one of their all time greatest players.
To abuse one of our club's most beloved sons wasn't annoying for us - it was strictly small time for them. The "Keano" chants were predictable but harmless - we'll put that under banter - we're not so po-faced we can't take a bit craic.
But most seriously the hail of bottles and glasses hurled towards St. Andrew's St. from Gallowgate, under the Chinese arch next to the Tyneside Irish Centre (who rumour tells me ironically weren't keen on being swamped by support from Scotland) by Celtic fans was criminally dangerous, completely indiscriminate and should end the invitations to Celtic Football Club to visit SJP. I saw bottles narrowly missing families and they were being thrown with wreckless intensity. Remember this was a game to which U-11s were encouraged with free admission. Again, I'm not suggesting our support was completely innocent but there is no question of provocation.
Its truly sad when a fanzine feels the need to call for a football club to be banned from our city because large numbers of their supporters can't conduct themselves acceptably . Sad and probably irrelevant.
And we won 4-1. We're not getting excited.'
Celtic fans welcome their players back after Ross County Defeat
"Faithful through and through" they sing. Only when their winning.
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
"Celtic crowd claim laughable"
"Celtic tried to claim an official crowd of 27,750 but that looked a laughable estimate."
Read more: http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/sport/spl/2931285/Celtic-2-Motherwell-1.html#ixzz0l4F7LeFx
Faithful through and through?
Celtic have released their official attendance of last nights match against high flying Motherwell as 27,500.Lets carry out some simple arithmetic.
The capacity of Celtic Park is 62000. As you can see from the images there is less than one Celtic fan per 8 seats. The attendance at Celtic park last night looks closer to 7200 than the 27'500 Celtic claim. Faithful through and through? Only when their winning.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Celtic fans tear gas attack
The Glasgow Herald - Nov 30, 1987
The Glasgow Herald - Mar 16, 1988
The Glasgow Herald - Jul 9, 1988
Monday, March 29, 2010
Monsters Walk Among Us - Celtic fans organisation drags their club through the mire
http://www.followfollow.com/news/tmnw/monsters_walk_among_us__celtic_fans_organisation_drags_their_club_through_the_mire_500633/index.shtml
Just when you think they can't get any lower - Celtic Supporters Association let their club down again.
Not content with allowing their HQ to be used as venue for terrorist tunes the General Secretary of the CSA has launched a revolting attack on Falklands veteran Simon Weston.
A repulsive creature named Joe O'Rourke has penned a sickening article on their official website which also opposes a minute's silence for Rangers keeper Gerry Neef who died during the week,
Honouring a former soldier for his charity work is apparently "triumphalism" and remembering a former player is "provocation."
Quite how twisted this reprobate is is exemplified by him warbling about tensions being high because of oil-exploration beginning around the Falkland Islands! As if your average hate-filled Timmy high on a cocktail of meths and sectarianism has an appreciation of the geo-politics of the South Atlantic.
Is a brief minute of humanity too much to ask?
If Celtic Football Club are serious about dragging themselves into the real world then this filth needs to be cleansed.
The article -
CSA Committee -
Just when you think they can't get any lower - Celtic Supporters Association let their club down again.
Not content with allowing their HQ to be used as venue for terrorist tunes the General Secretary of the CSA has launched a revolting attack on Falklands veteran Simon Weston.
A repulsive creature named Joe O'Rourke has penned a sickening article on their official website which also opposes a minute's silence for Rangers keeper Gerry Neef who died during the week,
Honouring a former soldier for his charity work is apparently "triumphalism" and remembering a former player is "provocation."
Quite how twisted this reprobate is is exemplified by him warbling about tensions being high because of oil-exploration beginning around the Falkland Islands! As if your average hate-filled Timmy high on a cocktail of meths and sectarianism has an appreciation of the geo-politics of the South Atlantic.
Is a brief minute of humanity too much to ask?
If Celtic Football Club are serious about dragging themselves into the real world then this filth needs to be cleansed.
The article -
CSA Committee -
Monday, March 1, 2010
Twisted
A SICK Celtic fan taunts brave Falklands hero Simon Weston - by waving an ARGENTINA shirt during yesterday's Old Firm clash.
The vile stunt came as war veteran Simon - who suffered horrific burns in the conflict - was a guest of Rangers' charity at Ibrox.
Furious ex-Army major Mike Rumbles MSP said: "It is totally unacceptable. This mindless rivalry between Old Firm fans has now hit a new low. This is deplorable."
It's claimed other Hoops fans heaped more shame on their club during their 1-0 defeat by chanting the name of the South American country and waving its flag.
Former SAS commander and top civil servant Clive Fairweather said: "It is very extreme and disappointing."
And Stephen Smith, of the Rangers Supporters' Trust, added: "It's a disgrace that this abuse was directed at one of the country's war heroes.
"There's no excuse for this type of behaviour."
Hero Simon, 48, suffered agonising burns to almost half his body when his ship the Sir Galahad was destroyed by an Argentinian bomb during the 1982 conflict.
He was the guest of honour at a special Rangers Charity Foundation's lunch the day before the Ibrox side's 1-0 victory.
Celtic fans had claimed earlier this week that his appearance was deliberately designed to provoke them.
One poster on the Celtic Supporters' Association website wrote: "This is a decision taken at the very highest level hoping to get a reaction from the Celtic fans.
"Why didn't they present him with a jersey the day before Remembrance Sunday?"
Celtic fans were also blasted for not respecting a minute's silence held yesterday for former Ibrox keeper Gerry Neef, who died last week.
Rangers supporters' chief John Macmillan said: "It was a tiny minority who broke the silence but that is all you need."
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Celtic attempt to exert pressure on match officials
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/c/celtic/8535119.stm
Celtic are considering expressing formal concerns about referee standards to the Scottish Football Association ahead of Sunday's Old Firm derby.
A club source has told BBC Scotland of their frustration about major decisions after analysing footage - including the last two games against Rangers.
But SFA president George Peat has rejected the claims as "inaccurate".
He found it "disappointing" that the source would try to "exert additional pressure on match officials".
Sunday's game will be refereed by Dougie McDonald, whose last Old Firm match was last season's Co-operative Insurance Cup final, which Celtic won 2-0 after extra-time.
Celtic are seven points behind reigning Scottish Premier League champions Rangers, who have a game in hand, ahead of the match at Ibrox.
The sides drew their last meeting, on 3 January, with Celtic believing that Marc-Antoine Fortune was denied a goal in the 1-1 draw.
Referee Steve Conroy ruled that the striker had fouled Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor. [VIDEO OF FOUL]
Rangers won the last Ibrox encounter 2-1 in October, when Celtic had several claims for penalties denied by Craig Thomson.
"We are considering contacting the SFA to highlight our concerns at some of the major decisions we feel have gone against us this season," said the Celtic source.
"The refereeing performances are a concern and a frustration to us."
Celtic also have concerns about offside decisions given against Robbie Keane, their recent loan signing from Tottenham Hotspur.
"It seems that officials are struggling to keep up with his pace," said the source.
"Several key off-side decisions have gone against him purely because of his speed."
Hugh Dallas, the SFA's head of refereeing development, this month himself expressed concerns about the standard of decision-making, suggesting that it had been a disappointing season for Scottish officials.
Celtic and SFA officials have met to discuss the Glasgow club's concerns, but the leak from the club has angered Peat.
"We find it disappointing and somewhat bizarre that, in the build-up to an Old Firm derby, an unnamed Celtic 'source' would seek to exert additional pressure on match officials by issuing ill-timed and fundamentally inaccurate comments," said the SFA president.
"The validity of these comments is questionable in any case, since the 'source' is not courageous enough to put his name to them.
"In actual fact, discussions between the Scottish FA and Celtic have taken place, but the contents of these discussions will remain private, as was agreed with the club.
"I am sure the Celtic chief executive, Peter Lawwell, will be concerned by the fact that someone has elected to speak on behalf of his club, seemingly without consent, and therefore undermined his authority."
--------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
Scottish Daily Express Friday 26 / 2/ 2010
Charlie Nicholas last night branded Celtic's sneaky ref attack a "cheap shot" and a desperate attempt to cover up the real problems at Parkhead. Nicholas was stunned when news was leaked from a Celtic "source" of an official move to complain about a string of cock-ups involving the Parkhead club this season.
Nicholas reckons the timing of the story -72 hours before an Old Firm game- is a sign of weakness from his old club and designed only to pander to paranoid fans. He said : " This latest episode goes beyond paranoia. I'm really disappointed. This smacks of a desperate act to pander to the fans who believe Celtic are always the victims. Its the actions of a club that is insecure and lacks belief. To flag up concerns about refs at this time indicates a weakness to me. Its scraping the bottom of the barrel ".
--------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
THE FACTS
Between 1890 and 2002
Red cards for Celtic 575, for Rangers 622
Yellow cards for Celtic 1522, for Rangers 1777
Penalties for Celtic 1027, for Rangers 896
Penalties against Celtic 328, against Rangers 459
--------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
Celtic are considering expressing formal concerns about referee standards to the Scottish Football Association ahead of Sunday's Old Firm derby.
A club source has told BBC Scotland of their frustration about major decisions after analysing footage - including the last two games against Rangers.
But SFA president George Peat has rejected the claims as "inaccurate".
He found it "disappointing" that the source would try to "exert additional pressure on match officials".
Sunday's game will be refereed by Dougie McDonald, whose last Old Firm match was last season's Co-operative Insurance Cup final, which Celtic won 2-0 after extra-time.
Celtic are seven points behind reigning Scottish Premier League champions Rangers, who have a game in hand, ahead of the match at Ibrox.
The sides drew their last meeting, on 3 January, with Celtic believing that Marc-Antoine Fortune was denied a goal in the 1-1 draw.
Referee Steve Conroy ruled that the striker had fouled Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor. [VIDEO OF FOUL]
Rangers won the last Ibrox encounter 2-1 in October, when Celtic had several claims for penalties denied by Craig Thomson.
"We are considering contacting the SFA to highlight our concerns at some of the major decisions we feel have gone against us this season," said the Celtic source.
"The refereeing performances are a concern and a frustration to us."
Celtic also have concerns about offside decisions given against Robbie Keane, their recent loan signing from Tottenham Hotspur.
"It seems that officials are struggling to keep up with his pace," said the source.
"Several key off-side decisions have gone against him purely because of his speed."
Hugh Dallas, the SFA's head of refereeing development, this month himself expressed concerns about the standard of decision-making, suggesting that it had been a disappointing season for Scottish officials.
Celtic and SFA officials have met to discuss the Glasgow club's concerns, but the leak from the club has angered Peat.
"We find it disappointing and somewhat bizarre that, in the build-up to an Old Firm derby, an unnamed Celtic 'source' would seek to exert additional pressure on match officials by issuing ill-timed and fundamentally inaccurate comments," said the SFA president.
"The validity of these comments is questionable in any case, since the 'source' is not courageous enough to put his name to them.
"In actual fact, discussions between the Scottish FA and Celtic have taken place, but the contents of these discussions will remain private, as was agreed with the club.
"I am sure the Celtic chief executive, Peter Lawwell, will be concerned by the fact that someone has elected to speak on behalf of his club, seemingly without consent, and therefore undermined his authority."
--------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
Scottish Daily Express Friday 26 / 2/ 2010
Charlie Nicholas last night branded Celtic's sneaky ref attack a "cheap shot" and a desperate attempt to cover up the real problems at Parkhead. Nicholas was stunned when news was leaked from a Celtic "source" of an official move to complain about a string of cock-ups involving the Parkhead club this season.
Nicholas reckons the timing of the story -72 hours before an Old Firm game- is a sign of weakness from his old club and designed only to pander to paranoid fans. He said : " This latest episode goes beyond paranoia. I'm really disappointed. This smacks of a desperate act to pander to the fans who believe Celtic are always the victims. Its the actions of a club that is insecure and lacks belief. To flag up concerns about refs at this time indicates a weakness to me. Its scraping the bottom of the barrel ".
--------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
THE FACTS
Between 1890 and 2002
Red cards for Celtic 575, for Rangers 622
Yellow cards for Celtic 1522, for Rangers 1777
Penalties for Celtic 1027, for Rangers 896
Penalties against Celtic 328, against Rangers 459
--------------------------------------
--------------------------------------
Friday, February 19, 2010
Celtic shame exposed
Well done to The Sun for bringing the following back into the public domain.
By GERRY DUFFY
http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/2859894/Yobs-sick-TV-stunt-on-Celtic-child-abuse.html
SICK yobs tricked an American TV footy show into airing a vile jibe about the Celtic child abuse scandal.
The morons sent a text message to the interactive show on the Fox Soccer Channel, posing as the beast behind the attacks on Hoops starlets in the 1970s.
The taunt, which ran across the bottom of the screen said "I Love Celtic U-15s! Jim Torbett". Monster Torbett was caged for a string of attacks on teenage players.
Last night one outraged Celtic fan said: "You need to wonder what kind of person thinks jokes about child abuse are funny.
"It's bad enough people in this country joke about this, but for it to be broadcast across the US is even more embarrassing."
The supporter added: "There's no way the people on the show would have spotted the connection, but whoever did this obviously thought they were being clever. It's sick."
Last night Fox bosses declined to discuss the stunt.
Parkhead officials also refused to comment.
Torbett was jailed for 2½ years in 1998 after he was convicted of abusing several lads who played for Celtic Boys Club up to three decades earlier.
His crimes had became public in 1996 when former Scotland striker Alan Brazil revealed he was molested at the age of 13 at the beast's home in Sighthill, Glasgow.
And we told in December 2008 how sickos had used a mobile phone text service in a bid to smear Celtic legend Jock Stein over the Torbett scandal.
The twisted yobs behind the unfounded 'Big Jock Knew' claims say the former manager failed to report the fiend to police over the assaults.
And punters at the time who texted 118 118 to ask the question 'What did big Jock know?' got the reply: 'It pertains to a matter that Stein knew but didn't report to the authorities'.
-----------------------------
THE OTHER SIDE OF PARADISE
Scotland on Sunday 18/08/1996
Celtic Boys' Club appealed to the dreams of a generation of football hopefuls, but they have only made the tabloids in a seamy tale of manipulation and abuse, report AUDREY GILLAN and RON McKAY
IT ALL begins in a shrine, the walls adorned with artefacts and relics, all carefully arranged and devoutly displayed, past which the faithful shuffled and nourished their own dreams of immortality.
Here, paradise seemed tangible, just a short trip away. But the changing faces who gaped in awe at this display of devotion were
gullible young boys who worshipped a team. They stared at the display of shirts and photographs, testimonials and autographs and
believed the man who told them that they could look down from the window, across the city to the football ground in the East End and
take all that lay before them.
Jim Torbett was 20 when he set up Celtic Boys' Club in 1966, seeking permission from the then manager Jock Stein to use the team's
name. He was only a few years older than the lads who trooped through his living room. Boys who left believing, as he did, in dreams,
certain that they were special, marked out for fame. Now 30 years on, those dreams have become nightmares for some, grown men
marked forever by the shy but enthusiastic man who took them to the heights and then the depths.
John McCluskey is, in the unimpeachable judgment of former Celtic star Charlie Nicholas, the best young player he ever saw. Last
week, McCluskey -who has fought drink, addiction and his own demons - was sitting in an upmarket Glasgow hotel, sipping cappuccino
and waiting to make a statement to police that Torbett had sexually assaulted him. He had been so badly affected by the Dunblane
massacre, he said, that he felt he had to make a stand.
Just two days before, the Daily Record had spread across five pages allegations that the boys' club founder had abused him. His
allegation was supported by Ally Brazil, the former Ipswich and Spurs striker, another graduate of the Celtic academy, who claimed that
Torbett kissed and fondled him when he was only 14. Within hours of the story hitting the streets, and the newspaper setting up its
abuse hotline, dozens of calls had come in and another man - Frank Cairney, the man who had been brought in by Jock Stein to get rid
of the smears and innuendoes which for years had hung around the boys' club - was also being named as an abuser.
Whispers that something was not quite right with Celtic Boys' Club had been around since its inception. Some boys passed through the
ranks unscathed, ducking slaps on the bum and over-enthusiastic spongings when they lay injured on the pitch. But others are alleged
to have suffered at the hands of a man who abused his position in pursuit of paedophile perversions. It seemed some of the weaker
boys, those with less skill, less certain of a place on the first team, those with less parental guidance, became easy prey. They would be
enticed back to Torbett's house with promises of meals and ice cream and sometimes less innocent pursuits would follow.
When Fergus McCann finally arrived in the halo of television lights at Parkhead in 1994 he knew that he faced a formidable task:
rebuilding a stadium, a team and the belief of a support which had seen years of failed promises and dismal performance. What he did
not expect -by way of an anonymous letter sent to him almost as soon as he was through the door - was a disturbing report of years of
abuse at the boys' club. Officially, the club was entirely separate from Celtic but McCann appreciated that it was inextricably bound to
Parkhead in the minds of the public, and indeed in the hearts of some of the players and former players - like Peter Grant, Paul McStay
and Tommy Burns - who had graduated from it to the big time of professional football.
McCann quickly went about trying to establish the truth, or not, of the accusations. He called in Jim Torbett and asked him to meet
Celtic's lawyers and confirm or deny, in an affidavit which could be passed to the police, the accusations. Torbett repeatedly refused.
He asked Ally Brazil and John McCluskey to make their allegations formal. Brazil refused at that stage. McCluskey agreed, but only if
his statement was not passed to the police.
Ironically, McCann was playing out, more than three years on, a sad little tableau which had occurred at Parkhead under the old
regime, ruled over by the Kelly and White families. In 1991 the boys' club had been to Kearney, New Jersey - an annual tour to the Irish
part of the state with players staying at the homes of Catholic families -and one boy, no longer at Celtic but now a professional player in
Scotland, had alleged to his hosts and to his own family that he had been assaulted by the team's general manager, Frank Cairney.
The boy's father took him to Celtic Park to have it out with Liam Brady who was then only months in the job as team manager. The
club's chief scout John Kelman was also present.
It was Brady's first serious and most affecting problem in a troubled time at Parkhead which did not last long. He listened to the boy,
believed him, and insisted to the board that Cairney had to be removed, not only from the boys' club but from any association with the
main football club. So, overnight, the man who was used to having his run of the place and the ear of the management, was cast out.
It was agreed, by Brady, the boy and his parents and the then Celtic board, that the police would not be informed. The young player
was assured that the alleged incident would have no effect on his future career at the club. However, signed statements were taken by
Celtic's lawyers from the four adults who had been on the New Jersey trip. All were sworn to silence.Cairney was now away from the football club and its nursery - business commitments was the given reason - but Jim Torbett was backplaying a major role, first as a fund-raiser then back with the boys' club. Torbett had maintained his connections with Celtic. Pre-
McCann board member Kevin Kelly, still honorary president of the boys' club, is a fellow director of Torbett's company The Trophy
Centre, and current board member Jack McGinn is an employee.
It is not clear why a man widely regarded as a child abuser was allowed back into a position of responsibility at the boys' club. Torbett
had been kicked out in 1976 after being confronted by the committee and, according to Frank Cairney's account of the meeting, had
broken down in tears and confessed. He was then summoned to a meeting with Jock Stein, at the end of which the big man physically
kicked him out of the door. And just to ensure that the boys' club stayed clean the legendary Celtic manager brought in another man,
Hugh Birt, as chairman of its committee.
Birt claims he was concerned about the behaviour of both Cairney and Torbett - who wheedled his way back in after Stein's death - and
raised the matter with the club. Before he knew it Birt was asked to resign. When he stood his ground and refused, he says, Celtic
withdrew his ticket to the directors' box and he had no option but to get out.
In spite of all these troubles, the boys' club, from humble beginnings in a hall in Maryhill, had become a great success and was now
seen as a crucial feeder of players for the senior club. It used Celtic's training ground at Barrowfield for coaching and matches and
became one of the country's most successful nurseries: its more famous graduates include current manager Tommy Burns, George
McCluskey, Roy Aitken, Charlie Nicholas, Paul McStay, and of the present side Peter Grant and Simon Donnelly.
But although the boys' club was hugely successful, rumours still continued to surround it. Former players began to talk to the press,
although none would go on record or make a formal complaint to the police. The New Jersey incident in 1991 was successfully
managed by the club and it seemed that nothing tangible would ever be proved. And then, in 1994, the new regime swept into Celtic
Park and the rumours flared up again. This time, the chairman was determined that nothing should be kicked under the carpet.
As McCann's investigation got under way, a lone Celtic fanatic Gerry McSherry, who resented the arrival of the new board, appeared
on a radio programme to question the transfer of a young player. Within days he had received a number of calls suggesting untoward
behaviour in the boys club. After months of investigation, McSherry began touting what he called the Paedo Files round various
newspapers and television companies and claims now to be under contract to the Record.
Last week, as the story developed from allegations against Torbett - who was suspended from the boys' club six days ago - to claims
that Cairney fondled boys as they sat in the front seat of his car, many men with long associations with the club began to grow uneasy.
Former players backed Big Frank whom they knew as a "father figure" and Burns rushed out to Cairney's terraced home in Viewpark,
Lanarkshire, after receiving a call from the man he considers a close friend. Leaving his house the manager was reported to have said:
"He [Cairney] has the whole of my backing and that of Celtic Football Club to a man."
The following morning Burns must have been wishing he had bitten his tongue. Incandescent at his manager's assumption that the club
would back Cairney, McCann issued a statement. "While I sympathise with Tommy Burns' personal position as a friend of Mr Cairney,
the club cannot condone or defend or take sides in a matter which involves a criminal complaint," he said.
Burns himself claimed that he had been misquoted and what he had in fact said was: "He has my backing and I'm sure he will have the
backing of several members of the first team who played for Frank at under-16 level."
Meanwhile, the allegations against Torbett went unchallenged. After hiding out at the east end home of William and Andrew Gilbert -
two young men who had played for the boys' club - he is said to have left the country. Yesterday, their mother Susan said that Torbett
was a close family friend - they sometimes travelled abroad with him and the boys' club - and that the allegations made against him
were rubbish.
DCI John Boyd at London Road police station, who has four officers investigating the allegations, said that his team had been taking
calls from a number of people who had not gone through the Daily Record. He added that the inquiry was at an early stage and that no
arrests were imminent.
At Celtic Park, the management is trying to keep its head down and stop the scandal interfering with play. Footballers like Peter Grant
and Tosh McKinlay - who came through the boys' club route - have nothing to say on the record. And the boy who made the complaint
against Cairney? He's playing his cards close to his chest. The chants from the terraces and jibes from his opponents would no doubt
be too much to take.
------------------------
Daily Record (Glasgow, Scotland); 11/7/1998; McILWRAITH, GORDON
JOCK Stein and the Celtic board covered up allegations made against Boys' Club founder Jim Torbett,
Mr Birt said: "There was a lot of hearsay and it wasn't until Jim came back that I got involved because things started up again."
He told how he took the allegations against Torbett to the Celtic board and Stein and even told the then vice-chairman, Kevin Kelly, about them at a meeting in his car.
He said: "Although there were people who spoke to me I couldn't go to the police without actual proof of the allegations. When I joined as chairman, I was told by Jock Stein to keep the name of Celtic Football Club clean at all times."
By GERRY DUFFY
http://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/scotsol/homepage/news/2859894/Yobs-sick-TV-stunt-on-Celtic-child-abuse.html
SICK yobs tricked an American TV footy show into airing a vile jibe about the Celtic child abuse scandal.
The morons sent a text message to the interactive show on the Fox Soccer Channel, posing as the beast behind the attacks on Hoops starlets in the 1970s.
The taunt, which ran across the bottom of the screen said "I Love Celtic U-15s! Jim Torbett". Monster Torbett was caged for a string of attacks on teenage players.
Last night one outraged Celtic fan said: "You need to wonder what kind of person thinks jokes about child abuse are funny.
"It's bad enough people in this country joke about this, but for it to be broadcast across the US is even more embarrassing."
The supporter added: "There's no way the people on the show would have spotted the connection, but whoever did this obviously thought they were being clever. It's sick."
Last night Fox bosses declined to discuss the stunt.
Parkhead officials also refused to comment.
Torbett was jailed for 2½ years in 1998 after he was convicted of abusing several lads who played for Celtic Boys Club up to three decades earlier.
His crimes had became public in 1996 when former Scotland striker Alan Brazil revealed he was molested at the age of 13 at the beast's home in Sighthill, Glasgow.
And we told in December 2008 how sickos had used a mobile phone text service in a bid to smear Celtic legend Jock Stein over the Torbett scandal.
The twisted yobs behind the unfounded 'Big Jock Knew' claims say the former manager failed to report the fiend to police over the assaults.
And punters at the time who texted 118 118 to ask the question 'What did big Jock know?' got the reply: 'It pertains to a matter that Stein knew but didn't report to the authorities'.
-----------------------------
THE OTHER SIDE OF PARADISE
Scotland on Sunday 18/08/1996
Celtic Boys' Club appealed to the dreams of a generation of football hopefuls, but they have only made the tabloids in a seamy tale of manipulation and abuse, report AUDREY GILLAN and RON McKAY
IT ALL begins in a shrine, the walls adorned with artefacts and relics, all carefully arranged and devoutly displayed, past which the faithful shuffled and nourished their own dreams of immortality.
Here, paradise seemed tangible, just a short trip away. But the changing faces who gaped in awe at this display of devotion were
gullible young boys who worshipped a team. They stared at the display of shirts and photographs, testimonials and autographs and
believed the man who told them that they could look down from the window, across the city to the football ground in the East End and
take all that lay before them.
Jim Torbett was 20 when he set up Celtic Boys' Club in 1966, seeking permission from the then manager Jock Stein to use the team's
name. He was only a few years older than the lads who trooped through his living room. Boys who left believing, as he did, in dreams,
certain that they were special, marked out for fame. Now 30 years on, those dreams have become nightmares for some, grown men
marked forever by the shy but enthusiastic man who took them to the heights and then the depths.
John McCluskey is, in the unimpeachable judgment of former Celtic star Charlie Nicholas, the best young player he ever saw. Last
week, McCluskey -who has fought drink, addiction and his own demons - was sitting in an upmarket Glasgow hotel, sipping cappuccino
and waiting to make a statement to police that Torbett had sexually assaulted him. He had been so badly affected by the Dunblane
massacre, he said, that he felt he had to make a stand.
Just two days before, the Daily Record had spread across five pages allegations that the boys' club founder had abused him. His
allegation was supported by Ally Brazil, the former Ipswich and Spurs striker, another graduate of the Celtic academy, who claimed that
Torbett kissed and fondled him when he was only 14. Within hours of the story hitting the streets, and the newspaper setting up its
abuse hotline, dozens of calls had come in and another man - Frank Cairney, the man who had been brought in by Jock Stein to get rid
of the smears and innuendoes which for years had hung around the boys' club - was also being named as an abuser.
Whispers that something was not quite right with Celtic Boys' Club had been around since its inception. Some boys passed through the
ranks unscathed, ducking slaps on the bum and over-enthusiastic spongings when they lay injured on the pitch. But others are alleged
to have suffered at the hands of a man who abused his position in pursuit of paedophile perversions. It seemed some of the weaker
boys, those with less skill, less certain of a place on the first team, those with less parental guidance, became easy prey. They would be
enticed back to Torbett's house with promises of meals and ice cream and sometimes less innocent pursuits would follow.
When Fergus McCann finally arrived in the halo of television lights at Parkhead in 1994 he knew that he faced a formidable task:
rebuilding a stadium, a team and the belief of a support which had seen years of failed promises and dismal performance. What he did
not expect -by way of an anonymous letter sent to him almost as soon as he was through the door - was a disturbing report of years of
abuse at the boys' club. Officially, the club was entirely separate from Celtic but McCann appreciated that it was inextricably bound to
Parkhead in the minds of the public, and indeed in the hearts of some of the players and former players - like Peter Grant, Paul McStay
and Tommy Burns - who had graduated from it to the big time of professional football.
McCann quickly went about trying to establish the truth, or not, of the accusations. He called in Jim Torbett and asked him to meet
Celtic's lawyers and confirm or deny, in an affidavit which could be passed to the police, the accusations. Torbett repeatedly refused.
He asked Ally Brazil and John McCluskey to make their allegations formal. Brazil refused at that stage. McCluskey agreed, but only if
his statement was not passed to the police.
Ironically, McCann was playing out, more than three years on, a sad little tableau which had occurred at Parkhead under the old
regime, ruled over by the Kelly and White families. In 1991 the boys' club had been to Kearney, New Jersey - an annual tour to the Irish
part of the state with players staying at the homes of Catholic families -and one boy, no longer at Celtic but now a professional player in
Scotland, had alleged to his hosts and to his own family that he had been assaulted by the team's general manager, Frank Cairney.
The boy's father took him to Celtic Park to have it out with Liam Brady who was then only months in the job as team manager. The
club's chief scout John Kelman was also present.
It was Brady's first serious and most affecting problem in a troubled time at Parkhead which did not last long. He listened to the boy,
believed him, and insisted to the board that Cairney had to be removed, not only from the boys' club but from any association with the
main football club. So, overnight, the man who was used to having his run of the place and the ear of the management, was cast out.
It was agreed, by Brady, the boy and his parents and the then Celtic board, that the police would not be informed. The young player
was assured that the alleged incident would have no effect on his future career at the club. However, signed statements were taken by
Celtic's lawyers from the four adults who had been on the New Jersey trip. All were sworn to silence.Cairney was now away from the football club and its nursery - business commitments was the given reason - but Jim Torbett was backplaying a major role, first as a fund-raiser then back with the boys' club. Torbett had maintained his connections with Celtic. Pre-
McCann board member Kevin Kelly, still honorary president of the boys' club, is a fellow director of Torbett's company The Trophy
Centre, and current board member Jack McGinn is an employee.
It is not clear why a man widely regarded as a child abuser was allowed back into a position of responsibility at the boys' club. Torbett
had been kicked out in 1976 after being confronted by the committee and, according to Frank Cairney's account of the meeting, had
broken down in tears and confessed. He was then summoned to a meeting with Jock Stein, at the end of which the big man physically
kicked him out of the door. And just to ensure that the boys' club stayed clean the legendary Celtic manager brought in another man,
Hugh Birt, as chairman of its committee.
Birt claims he was concerned about the behaviour of both Cairney and Torbett - who wheedled his way back in after Stein's death - and
raised the matter with the club. Before he knew it Birt was asked to resign. When he stood his ground and refused, he says, Celtic
withdrew his ticket to the directors' box and he had no option but to get out.
In spite of all these troubles, the boys' club, from humble beginnings in a hall in Maryhill, had become a great success and was now
seen as a crucial feeder of players for the senior club. It used Celtic's training ground at Barrowfield for coaching and matches and
became one of the country's most successful nurseries: its more famous graduates include current manager Tommy Burns, George
McCluskey, Roy Aitken, Charlie Nicholas, Paul McStay, and of the present side Peter Grant and Simon Donnelly.
But although the boys' club was hugely successful, rumours still continued to surround it. Former players began to talk to the press,
although none would go on record or make a formal complaint to the police. The New Jersey incident in 1991 was successfully
managed by the club and it seemed that nothing tangible would ever be proved. And then, in 1994, the new regime swept into Celtic
Park and the rumours flared up again. This time, the chairman was determined that nothing should be kicked under the carpet.
As McCann's investigation got under way, a lone Celtic fanatic Gerry McSherry, who resented the arrival of the new board, appeared
on a radio programme to question the transfer of a young player. Within days he had received a number of calls suggesting untoward
behaviour in the boys club. After months of investigation, McSherry began touting what he called the Paedo Files round various
newspapers and television companies and claims now to be under contract to the Record.
Last week, as the story developed from allegations against Torbett - who was suspended from the boys' club six days ago - to claims
that Cairney fondled boys as they sat in the front seat of his car, many men with long associations with the club began to grow uneasy.
Former players backed Big Frank whom they knew as a "father figure" and Burns rushed out to Cairney's terraced home in Viewpark,
Lanarkshire, after receiving a call from the man he considers a close friend. Leaving his house the manager was reported to have said:
"He [Cairney] has the whole of my backing and that of Celtic Football Club to a man."
The following morning Burns must have been wishing he had bitten his tongue. Incandescent at his manager's assumption that the club
would back Cairney, McCann issued a statement. "While I sympathise with Tommy Burns' personal position as a friend of Mr Cairney,
the club cannot condone or defend or take sides in a matter which involves a criminal complaint," he said.
Burns himself claimed that he had been misquoted and what he had in fact said was: "He has my backing and I'm sure he will have the
backing of several members of the first team who played for Frank at under-16 level."
Meanwhile, the allegations against Torbett went unchallenged. After hiding out at the east end home of William and Andrew Gilbert -
two young men who had played for the boys' club - he is said to have left the country. Yesterday, their mother Susan said that Torbett
was a close family friend - they sometimes travelled abroad with him and the boys' club - and that the allegations made against him
were rubbish.
DCI John Boyd at London Road police station, who has four officers investigating the allegations, said that his team had been taking
calls from a number of people who had not gone through the Daily Record. He added that the inquiry was at an early stage and that no
arrests were imminent.
At Celtic Park, the management is trying to keep its head down and stop the scandal interfering with play. Footballers like Peter Grant
and Tosh McKinlay - who came through the boys' club route - have nothing to say on the record. And the boy who made the complaint
against Cairney? He's playing his cards close to his chest. The chants from the terraces and jibes from his opponents would no doubt
be too much to take.
------------------------
Daily Record (Glasgow, Scotland); 11/7/1998; McILWRAITH, GORDON
JOCK Stein and the Celtic board covered up allegations made against Boys' Club founder Jim Torbett,
Mr Birt said: "There was a lot of hearsay and it wasn't until Jim came back that I got involved because things started up again."
He told how he took the allegations against Torbett to the Celtic board and Stein and even told the then vice-chairman, Kevin Kelly, about them at a meeting in his car.
He said: "Although there were people who spoke to me I couldn't go to the police without actual proof of the allegations. When I joined as chairman, I was told by Jock Stein to keep the name of Celtic Football Club clean at all times."
Friday, February 12, 2010
Celtic fans warned over sectarian and racist behaviour
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/north_east/8512119.stm
Police have issued a warning to Aberdeen and Celtic fans about their behaviour ahead of Saturday's game between the clubs at Pittodrie.
Grampian Police said there had been recent "isolated incidents" of sectarian and racist behaviour which was "obviously unacceptable".
Match commander Ch Supt Adrian Watson said it would not be tolerated.
He added: "The vast majority of supporters that come along to Pittodrie are extremely well behaved."
Police have issued a warning to Aberdeen and Celtic fans about their behaviour ahead of Saturday's game between the clubs at Pittodrie.
Grampian Police said there had been recent "isolated incidents" of sectarian and racist behaviour which was "obviously unacceptable".
Match commander Ch Supt Adrian Watson said it would not be tolerated.
He added: "The vast majority of supporters that come along to Pittodrie are extremely well behaved."
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
Policeman hospitalised in Celtic fans riot
http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/greenock/articles/2010/01/21/396233-policeman-hurt-after-ton-game/
by Brian Hossack
A POLICE officer was injured during the melee following the Scottish Cup tie between Morton and Celtic on Tuesday night.
The 31-year-old constable was trying to break up a fight between rival supporters when he fell to the ground and dislocated his shoulder.
He was taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley where he was treated and later released.
Superintendent Grant Manders said: "It is always regrettable when a police officer is injured in such circumstances when he or she is merely doing their job."
The policeman, who is from Paisley, was one of a team of extra officers drafted in to police the high-profile clash, which attracted a crowd of more than 10,000 at Cappielow.
Several smoke flares were let off during the match and there were more clashes off the pitch following Morton's 1-0 defeat, when a disturbance broke out in East Hamilton Street at Sinclair Street between fans from both clubs.
Superintendent Manders said: "Seven people were arrested and four people appeared in court yesterday.
"Football should be an enjoyable family event and people who display this type of hooligan behaviour spoil it for everyone and it was a disappointing end to what had been a good family night for local supporters. I will not tolerate this behaviour in Inverclyde."
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Celtic fans riot in Greenock
http://www.greenocktelegraph.co.uk/news/greenock/
by Eric Baxter Print
SEVERAL football supporters were arrested during Morton's cup clash with Celtic at Cappielow last night.
Three are expected to appear at Greenock Sheriff Court today following an incident after the fourth round Scottish Cup game, which Morton lost 1-0.
Police said there was a 'large-scale disturbance' in East Hamilton Street at the junction with Sinclair Street as fans were leaving.
During the game, a smoke flare was set off among Celtic supporters behind the Morton goal.
More Nazi salutes from Celtic fans
19.01.2010 Morton v Celtic
Another Celtic fan caught clearing carrying out Neo Nazi salutes in Greenock last night.
Image from http://www.photoshelter.com/
Another Celtic fan caught clearing carrying out Neo Nazi salutes in Greenock last night.
Image from http://www.photoshelter.com/
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Terrorist in failed bomb attack shown wearing Celtic shirt
Student Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab is shown wearing a Celtic away top before his alleged bombing attempt.
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1238574/
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1238574/
Monday, December 14, 2009
Author of sectarian study is Celtic supporting member of pro-IRA fanzine
http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/politics/author-of-sectarian-study-is-member-of-pro-ira-fanzine-1.991848
Paul Hutcheon
Published on 13 Dec 2009
Politicians question impartiality of ‘tainted’ report
A study into sectarianism funded with public money has been questioned after it emerged that one of its authors is a member of a pro-IRA Celtic FC fan group. Fatima Uygun joined the online version of fanzine Tiocfaidh Ar La earlier this year. Tiocfaidh Ar La translates as “Our Day Will Come” and is a popular IRA slogan in Northern Ireland. The fanzine has been a consistent supporter of the Republican armed struggle in Northern Ireland.
The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) last month unveiled a report into sectarianism in the workplace. The study – aided by £10,000 from the Scottish Government and matching support from publicly-funded body Sense over Sectarianism – found sectarian prejudice had evolved into a “more subtle and disguised form”.
The report, co-written by Ms Uygun, Professor Gerry Finn and Andrew Johnson, called for firms to be legally required to record sectarian incidents in the workplace.
Ms Uygun, 42, joined the Tiocfaidh Ar La (TAL) online fanzine as “Fatima Celtic67” in February – after the academic study was completed. The publication, set up in 1991, describes itself as anti-fascist, anti-racist and in favour of “politically progressive movements”. However, it also claims to be “the authentic voice of the republican-minded Celtic supporters”.
One issue of the magazine honoured a former IRA chief of staff, while another article, published after former prime minister Tony Blair started peace negotiations in Northern Ireland, dismissed calls for the IRA to disarm: “On this issue, it might be prudent to remember what James Connolly said to the Irish Citizen’s Army on the eve of the Easter Rising – ‘Hold on to your rifles’.”
The same article noted: “The people who forced the Brits into negotiations with Sinn Fein were the volunteer soldiers of the IRA. The British Establishment was bombed to the negotiating table.”
On former First Minister Jack McConnell’s anti-sectarian stance, another article noted: “In reality, this campaign has been a cover to push back growing expressions of Irish nationalism.”
In an interview with the left-wing Class War publication, a spokesman for TAL said: “It was essential TAL clearly expressed its support for the republican people and their struggle to get the Brits out, by any means necessary.”
Although the STUC study focused on discrimination against Catholics and Protestants, one passage noted: “Much that is claimed to be sectarianism is better described as anti-Irish racism.”
Uygun told the Sunday Herald her political views played no part in the study: “My politics aren’t particularly a secret. I’m a revolutionary socialist. I’m not a nationalist. I believe in both Protestant and Irish people actually working together, to bring about a better world.”
Asked why she joined the TAL forum, she said: “I’m a fan of a whole range of things. It’s just one of those things. I’m a bit uncomfortable with my personal beliefs being brought into this.”
She added: “You shouldn’t really be writing stuff about this, because it’s really not helpful to the research. I hope you are not going to be putting anything in about my own personal beliefs. It’s really unprofessional of you to even bring it up, really.”
Ian Davidson, Labour MP for Glasgow South West, said: “It seems to me inappropriate that someone with such strong views has been involved in the composition of the report. It calls into question its impartiality.”
Robert Brown, a Liberal Democrat MSP for Glasgow, said: “There are some points raised by this study that are valid regardless of who wrote it, but perhaps there are some limitations on how much reliance you can place on it if it has come from a source that’s too much on one side of the argument.”
Bill Aitken, a Conservative MSP in Glasgow, said: “The public, having paid for this study, are entitled to expect this research has been carried out by those whose views are not tainted by opinions already expressed on the same subject.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “It was for the STUC to take forward work on the report and pick the research team.”
Grahame Smith, STUC general secretary said: “The STUC believes this report is a significant contribution to the debate about sectarianism in Scotland.”
Paul Hutcheon
Published on 13 Dec 2009
Politicians question impartiality of ‘tainted’ report
A study into sectarianism funded with public money has been questioned after it emerged that one of its authors is a member of a pro-IRA Celtic FC fan group. Fatima Uygun joined the online version of fanzine Tiocfaidh Ar La earlier this year. Tiocfaidh Ar La translates as “Our Day Will Come” and is a popular IRA slogan in Northern Ireland. The fanzine has been a consistent supporter of the Republican armed struggle in Northern Ireland.
The Scottish Trades Union Congress (STUC) last month unveiled a report into sectarianism in the workplace. The study – aided by £10,000 from the Scottish Government and matching support from publicly-funded body Sense over Sectarianism – found sectarian prejudice had evolved into a “more subtle and disguised form”.
The report, co-written by Ms Uygun, Professor Gerry Finn and Andrew Johnson, called for firms to be legally required to record sectarian incidents in the workplace.
Ms Uygun, 42, joined the Tiocfaidh Ar La (TAL) online fanzine as “Fatima Celtic67” in February – after the academic study was completed. The publication, set up in 1991, describes itself as anti-fascist, anti-racist and in favour of “politically progressive movements”. However, it also claims to be “the authentic voice of the republican-minded Celtic supporters”.
One issue of the magazine honoured a former IRA chief of staff, while another article, published after former prime minister Tony Blair started peace negotiations in Northern Ireland, dismissed calls for the IRA to disarm: “On this issue, it might be prudent to remember what James Connolly said to the Irish Citizen’s Army on the eve of the Easter Rising – ‘Hold on to your rifles’.”
The same article noted: “The people who forced the Brits into negotiations with Sinn Fein were the volunteer soldiers of the IRA. The British Establishment was bombed to the negotiating table.”
On former First Minister Jack McConnell’s anti-sectarian stance, another article noted: “In reality, this campaign has been a cover to push back growing expressions of Irish nationalism.”
In an interview with the left-wing Class War publication, a spokesman for TAL said: “It was essential TAL clearly expressed its support for the republican people and their struggle to get the Brits out, by any means necessary.”
Although the STUC study focused on discrimination against Catholics and Protestants, one passage noted: “Much that is claimed to be sectarianism is better described as anti-Irish racism.”
Uygun told the Sunday Herald her political views played no part in the study: “My politics aren’t particularly a secret. I’m a revolutionary socialist. I’m not a nationalist. I believe in both Protestant and Irish people actually working together, to bring about a better world.”
Asked why she joined the TAL forum, she said: “I’m a fan of a whole range of things. It’s just one of those things. I’m a bit uncomfortable with my personal beliefs being brought into this.”
She added: “You shouldn’t really be writing stuff about this, because it’s really not helpful to the research. I hope you are not going to be putting anything in about my own personal beliefs. It’s really unprofessional of you to even bring it up, really.”
Ian Davidson, Labour MP for Glasgow South West, said: “It seems to me inappropriate that someone with such strong views has been involved in the composition of the report. It calls into question its impartiality.”
Robert Brown, a Liberal Democrat MSP for Glasgow, said: “There are some points raised by this study that are valid regardless of who wrote it, but perhaps there are some limitations on how much reliance you can place on it if it has come from a source that’s too much on one side of the argument.”
Bill Aitken, a Conservative MSP in Glasgow, said: “The public, having paid for this study, are entitled to expect this research has been carried out by those whose views are not tainted by opinions already expressed on the same subject.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “It was for the STUC to take forward work on the report and pick the research team.”
Grahame Smith, STUC general secretary said: “The STUC believes this report is a significant contribution to the debate about sectarianism in Scotland.”
Sectarian attack on Airdrie binman by Celtic fan
http://www.acadvertiser.co.uk/lanarkshire-news/
Dec 9 2009 by Gordon Robertson, Airdrie & Coatbridge
A COUNCIL insider has blown the whistle on an alleged sectarian assault that has shamed a Coatbridge cleansing depot.
An investigation has been launched into the vicious attack that left a 22-year-old Rangers-supporting binman with fractured ribs.
One of his colleagues – a Celtic fan – whacked him on the back with a shovel in front of other workers.
The shocking incident is now being investigated by police and is the subject of a separate probe by council chiefs.
Our source said: “He is a young dad from Craigneuk in Airdrie who comes from a mixed family and he thought a lot of what was going on was just banter.
“His wee sister goes to a Catholic school but just because he supports Rangers he was attacked.
“His family are very upset that the story is in the paper but it is better to have this kind of thing exposed.
“The council might be embarrassed but they have got to sort this out.
“This kind of thing cannot be tolerated and the guy who did it should be charged
“It shows you how these things can get out of control.
“Anything could have happened to that young boy and it could have been a lot worse.
“I have come to you because I don’t want this to happen to anyone else.”
The attack allegedly took place at Blochairn in Glasgow but the workers were based at Souterhouse Cleansing Depot in Coatbridge.
Both men are now believed to be based at other depots.
The incident was said to have happened shortly after a Rangers 2-1 win over Celtic on Sunday, October 4.
Our source said: “The boy thought it was bit of banter after the game and was laughing and joking and not taking it seriously.
“He was in the works van together with a lot of other workers and he went out for a break and before he knew it he was whacked in the back with a shovel.
“You could see the mark on him, it was like at tattoo.
“He was in so much pain he went to Monklands A&E and found out he had fractured ribs.”
The council insider added: “It is shameful that none of the workers who saw this have come forward.
“Regardless of your religious or ethnic group this should not have been allowed to happen and it should have been reported straight away.”
Council chiefs are now looking into the incident and allegations that the Airdrie dad was a victim of sectarian bullying.
A spokesman for North Lanarkshire Council said: “We do not discuss individual personnel matters.
“However, any violence towards our employees is unacceptable.
“This case will be fully investigated in line with our normal procedures and action taken as appropriate.”
A spokesman for Strathclyde Police confirmed their own investigation into the claims was under way.
Dec 9 2009 by Gordon Robertson, Airdrie & Coatbridge
A COUNCIL insider has blown the whistle on an alleged sectarian assault that has shamed a Coatbridge cleansing depot.
An investigation has been launched into the vicious attack that left a 22-year-old Rangers-supporting binman with fractured ribs.
One of his colleagues – a Celtic fan – whacked him on the back with a shovel in front of other workers.
The shocking incident is now being investigated by police and is the subject of a separate probe by council chiefs.
Our source said: “He is a young dad from Craigneuk in Airdrie who comes from a mixed family and he thought a lot of what was going on was just banter.
“His wee sister goes to a Catholic school but just because he supports Rangers he was attacked.
“His family are very upset that the story is in the paper but it is better to have this kind of thing exposed.
“The council might be embarrassed but they have got to sort this out.
“This kind of thing cannot be tolerated and the guy who did it should be charged
“It shows you how these things can get out of control.
“Anything could have happened to that young boy and it could have been a lot worse.
“I have come to you because I don’t want this to happen to anyone else.”
The attack allegedly took place at Blochairn in Glasgow but the workers were based at Souterhouse Cleansing Depot in Coatbridge.
Both men are now believed to be based at other depots.
The incident was said to have happened shortly after a Rangers 2-1 win over Celtic on Sunday, October 4.
Our source said: “The boy thought it was bit of banter after the game and was laughing and joking and not taking it seriously.
“He was in the works van together with a lot of other workers and he went out for a break and before he knew it he was whacked in the back with a shovel.
“You could see the mark on him, it was like at tattoo.
“He was in so much pain he went to Monklands A&E and found out he had fractured ribs.”
The council insider added: “It is shameful that none of the workers who saw this have come forward.
“Regardless of your religious or ethnic group this should not have been allowed to happen and it should have been reported straight away.”
Council chiefs are now looking into the incident and allegations that the Airdrie dad was a victim of sectarian bullying.
A spokesman for North Lanarkshire Council said: “We do not discuss individual personnel matters.
“However, any violence towards our employees is unacceptable.
“This case will be fully investigated in line with our normal procedures and action taken as appropriate.”
A spokesman for Strathclyde Police confirmed their own investigation into the claims was under way.
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
