posted on Jun, 12 2016 @ 07:35 AM
As I've said in other threads this was so predictable, (as was the result of the game but that's entirely another matter).
Who on earth scheduled England to play Russia in Marseilles at 8PM on a Saturday night?
Russia has a well documented and established active hooligan scene.
These guys take it very seriously, train and organise.
They see beating England off the pitch as the pinnacle.
Every man and his dog who knows anything about this subject knows that Russian hooligans had openly stated they were going to target English fans in
Marseilles.
Marseilles was the scene of riots back in 98 involving English fans.
Marseilles has a very active Ultra group who were keen to take what they see as 'revenge' for the 98 riots.
Marseilles also has a 60% Muslim population.
Most 'Old School' English hooligans are either the subject of banning orders which prohibit travel abroad during English internationals, are too old
and too fat to be actively involved in hooliganism, are happily married etc and have turned their back on the whole scene or just couldn't give a toss
about it anymore and just want to have a beer and a laugh and enjoy the football like the vast majority of football fans.
That's not to say there aren't those who travel who will go looking for trouble - of course there is and to suggest anything other is just
ridiculous.
However, like fans of all countries, most just want to experience the occasion, have a bit of banter and a laugh and hopefully see their team do
well.
But, and it's a massive BUT - they will never cower away and will retaliate when attacked.
'Old School' hooligans would never target 'ordinary' fans and only wanted to fight like for like.
These new hooligans respect no such distinction - they will target 'ordinary' fans, women and even children.
I have been reliably informed that a handful of English 'fans' were acting like complete scumbags.
But the vast majority of violence has been instigated by Russian hooligans and local Ultras.
All of this could easily have been avoided if French authorities had listened to English police recommendation on how to police the game.
But none of it would have necessary if common sense had been applied when scheduling this match.
Early as possible kick off, mid-week, at almost any venue other than one in Marseille.
To more important matters - I've watched England for over half a century now and nothing surprises me.
I spent a few years following them abroad, had some great times which were only spoilt by our football.
I now go into tournaments not expecting much so I tend not to be disappointed.
This tournament will be no different despite us having what should be a half decent team.
Last night's result was so predictable but we'll still scrape through group qualification and go out on penalties in either the next round or the
quarters.
Such a shame.
And to end on a different note - nice to see the predictable anti-English bigotry and hatred being spewed from the usual quarters.
It must be such a sad and miserable existence being so consumed with bitterness and rage.