No more hate (From The Argus)

No more hate

8:30am Saturday 11th February 2012 in Your Argus

A recent article attempted to explain why the respective fans of Brighton and Hove Albion and Crystal Palace hate each other (The Argus, February 4).

It’s possible that a letter in your edition from February 4 could hold an answer, or at least part-explain.

Your correspondent states that if you do not wish to be bombarded with filthy language and violent, abusive attitudes, keep clear of the north stand at the Amex.

I was not aware there was a section of the Amex set aside for foul-mouthed supporters.

Does this mean everyone who attends matches and sits in the north stand is automatically labelled a foul mouth?

I think not. I’m sure a large proportion of northstanders are normal fans, not wishing to use expletives in front of women and children.

For 75 of my 83 years I have supported the Albion, many from the old north stand at The Goldstone Ground. I have never felt like abusing the opposition’s fans or players with language I would hesitate to use in front of my wife.

I well remember the times when, if a player was injured, the ball would automatically be kicked out of play by either team.

If a player was knocked over, his opponent would often turn round and offer a hand up.

After a goal had been scored the scorer would smile and accept the handshakes from his mates, not run halfway around the pitch screaming with his face contorted and snarling.

Even the poor old ref was respected most of the time.

But now if a decision goes against, players mill around arguing and shoving each other. Even top managers such as Alex Ferguson or Arsene Wenger blame everyone except their own players when they lose.

In the past I have stood among opposition fans – especially at cup matches against Portsmouth, Crystal Palace and Manchester United – and exchanged good old-fashioned banter with their fans, and shared a drink with them afterwards. I never wished to punch or stab them.

I understand Albion fans applaud their opposite numbers and this could be a step in the right direction.

Perhaps Gus could help by condemning anti-social behaviour at the Amex.

Is this a sign of the times or just a fan thinking back to the old days?

John Reeves, Arundel Road, Eastbourne