bbc.com
Away Fans Return to Old Firm Match Amidst Enhanced Security
Away fans will return to the Celtic versus Rangers match after a two-year absence due to safety and security concerns, with new measures like nets to catch missiles and a strengthened police presence.
- What are the immediate consequences of allowing away fans back into Old Firm matches after a two-year absence?
- After a two-year hiatus, away fans will return to Old Firm matches between Celtic and Rangers. This follows lengthy negotiations involving the clubs, police, and league, addressing safety concerns and past incidents of violence. The return aims to restore the fixture's unique atmosphere while acknowledging persistent issues like sectarianism.
- How did safety concerns and past incidents of violence influence the negotiations and resulting security measures for the Old Firm match?
- The decision to reinstate away fans is a significant step toward restoring the Old Firm's traditional intensity, which was diminished by the absence of opposing supporters. Increased security measures, including nets to prevent missiles, and a tougher police approach to both in-stadium and city-center violence are key elements of the agreement. This demonstrates a collaborative effort to manage risks while preserving the match's passionate atmosphere.
- What are the long-term challenges and uncertainties regarding safety and atmosphere, considering the persistent issues of sectarianism and organized violence?
- The success of this initiative hinges on the effectiveness of enhanced security and the police's ability to deter organized violence. While nets mitigate some risks, the underlying issues of sectarianism and ultra-group clashes remain challenges. The long-term impact will depend on whether the changes maintain safety and the match's unique atmosphere.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the return of away fans as a positive step, emphasizing the desire for "Old Firm normality." The headline and introduction highlight the excitement and anticipation, subtly downplaying the ongoing issues of violence and sectarianism. While acknowledging these problems, the focus remains on the return to a traditional atmosphere, potentially minimizing the severity of the underlying challenges.
Language Bias
The article uses relatively neutral language, although terms such as "poisonous" and "toxic" to describe the atmosphere are subjective and loaded. These terms could be replaced with more neutral alternatives like "intense" or "highly charged." The repeated use of "violent clashes" and "organized fighting" emphasizes the negative aspects of the rivalry.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the security and safety concerns surrounding the Old Firm derby, including the installation of nets to prevent missiles. However, it omits discussion of the economic impact of the fixture on Glasgow, the potential for increased tourism, or the broader social implications of the intense rivalry beyond violence and disorder. While acknowledging the limitations of scope, these omissions prevent a fully comprehensive understanding of the event.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy by framing the situation as simply 'disorder versus the vast majority of well-behaved supporters.' This simplifies a complex issue by ignoring the spectrum of fan behavior and the nuanced role of various factors such as alcohol consumption, policing strategies, and historical tensions in fueling incidents.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights efforts to improve safety and security at football matches, addressing violence and disorder among fans. Negotiations between clubs, police, and the league led to the installation of safety nets and a renewed focus on tackling organized fighting and unacceptable conduct within stadiums. This directly contributes to creating safer and more peaceful public spaces, aligning with SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all and build effective, accountable and inclusive institutions at all levels.