One thing I can’t understand, is the Scots obsession with football! Last night’s Celtic game with AC Milan recorded a triumph for Celtic as they qualified for the last 16 of the Champions League, thanks to a late goal from Scott McDonald. Not too many of the Scots I knew rejoiced though, as most of them were Rangers’ fans. However, nothing could stop the faithful Celtic fans from celebrating. As soon as the second Celtic goal hit Milan’s net, I could hear fireworks blasting everywhere!
It somehow reminded me of June 2006, following England's exit in the quarterfinals of the World Cup at the hands of Portugal. The atmosphere felt almost the same; a pure Scottish triumph; fire works lit up the sky!
Being a dedicated fan is something that is learnt from a very early age. You see babies wearing stripes from as early as a few months old! Supporting a team is like a rite of passage; a young boy may follow his Daddy’s rituals of wearing the stripes, watching the game on TV or going to see the match live. Later, he may join him at the pub, or go with his own peers to cheer his favourite team to victory.
A “football fan” for a Scot is an honoury title; it gives a Scot self empowerment and a feeling of big achievement.
No mum or Dad is more proud than those of a football player. All the Scots want their children to play football; it’s every young boy’s dream.
It somehow reminded me of June 2006, following England's exit in the quarterfinals of the World Cup at the hands of Portugal. The atmosphere felt almost the same; a pure Scottish triumph; fire works lit up the sky!
Being a dedicated fan is something that is learnt from a very early age. You see babies wearing stripes from as early as a few months old! Supporting a team is like a rite of passage; a young boy may follow his Daddy’s rituals of wearing the stripes, watching the game on TV or going to see the match live. Later, he may join him at the pub, or go with his own peers to cheer his favourite team to victory.
A “football fan” for a Scot is an honoury title; it gives a Scot self empowerment and a feeling of big achievement.
No mum or Dad is more proud than those of a football player. All the Scots want their children to play football; it’s every young boy’s dream.
Football has become an institutionalized sport in the UK in general, and in Scotland in particular. The Major matches are almost national holidays, with nearly all fans maneuvering ways to, almost religiously, watch the game live. It is the trademark of British “yob” culture, a big religion that swept the nation off its feet, and knocked down what was left of British saneness!
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