European football violence - why?
Posted by: Deane F on 07 April 2007
Watching the television news footage of the riot police and the football fans in Italy was a bit shocking. I am reminded of the long history of football violence and hooliganism in Europe and the UK.
Where did this violence and gang-like behaviour come from in football? Is it peculiar to football or is this sort of fan violence found in other sports in Europe/UK?
Posted on: 07 April 2007 by Macker
I have always found fanatical sports team support a bit weird anyway...what ever the sport.
The other thing I have noticed is that if the team is doing well a supporter will say "we are doing really well this season" but if the team is performing badly it's " they are doing shite this year - the manager has to go"
I can only wonder at the violent mind and what goes on inside...I don't think football promotes it but I believe it provides an outlet for those so inclined..
Posted on: 08 April 2007 by Chillkram
Governments in Europe have been struggling with this one for years, Deane.
This might give you some idea.
Mark
Posted on: 08 April 2007 by Deane F
Mark
Cheers for that! Interesting stuff.
Deane
Posted on: 08 April 2007 by Howlinhounddog
Interesting article Mark. I am familiar with the work of Stuart Hall into football violence in the UK. What I did find interesting was some of the comments relating to the Italian police. I noticed at the match that the police were congregated only in large numbers in the English support end (initial thought was, well you reap what you sow) Until it was mentioned that had they(police) entered the home supporters end they were likely to be attacked. This got me thinking, that what better way to ingratiate oneself with the home support than to attack the opositions support. Interesting theory, any comments?
Charlie
