Leigh Griffiths’ celebrations after the Old Firm game back in September have been slammed by Lee McCulloch.
The Celtic striker was seen after the match twirling a scarf over his head in front of the Rangers support. It was clear incitement as Griffiths tried to antagonise the Rangers support over the 1-0 result for the Parkhead side.
Just yesterday, Police Scotland recommended that Old Firm victories shouldn’t be celebrated with a lap of honour. Other recommendations included reviewing the hold-back of supporters after the match.
Rangers hero McCulloch, who competed in plenty of these fixtures in the past, understands the danger of these kind of celebrations. Speaking in his Evening Times column, the former Gers midfielder wasn’t impressed with the actions of Griffiths back in September.
“You can argue whether or not the burden of responsibility should rest with players or fans to ensure good behaviour.
“But I would agree that things like Leigh Griffiths celebrating in front of the Rangers fans, as we saw after the last game at Celtic Park, should be stopped.
“Clapping your fans as you walk off? Fine. Swinging a scarf over your head close to the oppositio whatn fans? Not so much.”
Seeing sense in the debate
McCulloch in right in what he’s saying here. Celebrating and goading opposition fans at full-time isn’t a wise move, and shouldn’t be allowed post-match.
As mentioned in the past, giving a bit back after scoring a goal is all well and good. The truth is, however, that those supporters just want to leave the ground at full-time. Being held back and goaded by rival players isn’t something that’s particularly necessary.
Fans have to take responsibility for their own actions at the same time. You have to have a bit of maturity about you and try to suck up whatever comes your way. Give a bit back – that’s all part of the banter – but trying to charge onto the pitch or throw objects is a bridge too far.
There are players like Griffiths, however, who feel untouchable in these fixtures. They know they won’t be allowed to be touched by fans, so therefore take their celebrations way too far.
Players also have to take some responsibility and understand how it works up here. Fans are more passionate in Scotland, and especially Glasgow, than anywhere else in Britain.
McCulloch is right to call for celebrations like Griffiths’ to be stopped. Celebrate with your fans and do what you like with them, but don’t needlessly antagonise at full-time when fans just want out.
