The
Premiere League must act now and do something to prevent a repeat
of the scenes that took place at Oakwell yesterday. I know some
people have a soft spot for clubs like little Barnsley, but the
truth is they are a Premier side with a Second division
mentallity. The reaction of their supporters was a step back to
the hooligan days of the late 60's and early 70's. After
witnessing the scenes that took place both inside and outside the
ground yesterday, I for one will certainly not be upset if this
pathetic little club are relegated at the end of the season. The
sad news that a fan was stabbed to death after the Gillingahm v
Fullham match yesterday has grabbed most of todays headlines,
otherwise I'm sure the Yorkshire club would have been the main
sports story. With gangs of Barnsley thugs roaming the streets
intent on attacking any Liverpool fans, women and children
included, it was only the swift and precise action of the Police
that prevented a very serious incident turning into, possibly, a
very tragic incident. The Police were quick to react to the
pockets of violence that were taking place in the streets around
the city center, but despite their efforts, some Liverpool fans
were attacked and injured. A fan standing by us had 2 of his
teeth knocked out by a Barnsley neanderthal who without
provocation, elbowed him in the mouth. One of the lads who
travelled with us was tripped by more Barnsley goons and kicked
as he lay on the ground, and was only saved from further
punishment by the intervention of the Police. It is now time for
the authorities to stamp down on these pathetic little clubs,
with illusions of grandeur, and tell them if they can't play with
the big boys without their displays of childish tantrums, then
they should be sent back to the lower regions were they belong.
(Derek B)