Moths to the Flame

[26th of foot 6,082]

Ultras, a culture that has spread right across the game. Chant and response, constant drumming and, a multitude of flags combine with a choreography of Tifo, flares and, coloured smoke discharge. The sum of the parts results in a presentation of fanaticism. In Scotland the culture has been growing these last twenty years and in this last month has culminated in ra Sellik's Green Brigade grabbing headlines for political posturing whilst our own Union Bears have exhibited pyromania. The chant is, 'No Pyro, no party'.

 

Last night's events at Dens Park saw the Union Bears exacerbate a situation of delayed kick off. The start was already forty-five minutes late when after two minutes of play the Referee ordered both sets of players from the field for a further eighteen minutes. The halt to play was caused by the Rangers away support in the Bob Shankly stand igniting dozens of flares. White light quickly led to obscuration on a near windless evening. The game and the party fizzled out at nearly eleven O'Clock.

 

The flames surrounding the Green Brigade these last few weeks proved too hot for many. The silence was deafening from numerous politicians, the national broadcaster, Police Scotland despite the Pig Watch banners and, the Scottish Government. One must admire the patient discipline on display as the wait for the approved line/narrative continued. Playing with Peter's fire leads to collective fingers being burnt.

 

Illumination on the silvery Tay sparks a pile on. Last night and today we have had statements from the Dundee CEO, the Dundee manager, Police Scotland, the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, the Scottish Government and, a multitude of commentary from the national broadcaster at PQ. Moths are attracted to the Rangers inspired flame knowing there is no threat to a single wing being cinched. We await the Rangers statement.

 

I suspect last night's flare up has united those that relish kicking our club and support?

 

 

[Malangsob 1,264]

There is a saying.

 

"Don't start no shit and there won't be none"

 

You bring a shine onto yourself you deserve what comes with that. 

 

Lookin at the other guy and complaining how others react to him is, well, to put it as kindly as I can, not productive.

 

Don't start no shit and there won't be none. 

 

 

 

 

[MacK1950 2,376]

Maybe not political but the UB's actions last night were moronic,hopefully some are caught and punished.

[Bill 13,717]

8 minutes ago, MacK1950 said:

Maybe not political but the UB's actions last night were moronic,hopefully some are caught and punished.

No doubt many of them think they’re doing it “for Rangers”.
 

Still, atmosphere eh?

[Gonzo79 15,292]

I thought it looked good.  The delay, assisted by the fire alarms at Dens Park, was unfortunate. 

 

Comparing standard Ultra imagery with what the GBs are up to is strange.  All Ultras love a flare up, a tifo and a few flags.  Not all Ultras celebrate acts of terrorism, display hanging effigies of certain religious groups, pretend to be foreign and wave religious symbols.  

 

Not unsurprising that the Scottish press would choose to focus on one as much as the other though, is it.

[pete 2,499]

Is there any way we can bring this in safely and legally. It is a fantastic spectacle, but it has to be done safely.

[Bill 13,717]

Much could be tolerated if only they’d put their feet through those fucking drums. 

[Devil's advocaat 1,541]

Cold flares are a thing for grounds in some European countries, not sure how effective looking it is.

 

 

[MacK1950 2,376]

7 hours ago, pete said:

Is there any way we can bring this in safely and legally. It is a fantastic spectacle, but it has to be done safely.

All I can say is spare a thought for those with breathing difficulties from the toxic smoke,it can never be safe.

[CammyF 8,079]

7 hours ago, pete said:

Is there any way we can bring this in safely and legally. It is a fantastic spectacle, but it has to be done safely.

Sure its done this way in other countries. 

 

Whilst living in Toronto we used to go and watch Toronto FC and they installed smoke machines in the ultras area - red and white. 

 

The issue being masked here is how these flares were gotten into the ground. Said on the match thread the average fan can't get in with a bottle of water but Ultras some how manage to get flares in. 

 

Dundee might better served asking Police Scotland and their stewards how this was allowed to happen.

Edited November 3, 2023 by CammyF