Should fans be criticised for booing their own team?

October 13, 2008

Supporters are in the firing line after incidents at this weekend’s World Cup qualifiers.

England fans were criticised by coach Fabio Capello and stand-in captain Rio Ferdinand for booing Ashley Cole after his mistake led to a goal in the 5-1 win over Kazakhstan.

Wembley supporters have a habit of booing their own team in recent times and Capello was at least grateful they gave his side a reasonably easy ride in a goalless first half.

But with tickets costing a lot in these troubled financial times, do fans have the right to boo if the standard is not up to scratch?

If an opera singer’s voice breaks at the theatre you can whistle and ask for your money back, but not at a football match.

Cole, nicknamed Cashley by the British tabloids, probably got extra stick because he has a reputation for putting money ahead of pride.

Italy fans have also been heavily lambasted for some minor trouble at Saturday’s goalless draw in Bulgaria. A few supporters made fascist salutes, burnt Bulgarian flags and threw bottles.

The head of the Italian FA has said all Azzurri fans should now be banned from going to away games. Is this an overreaction or is it the only way to make fans behave?

PHOTO: England manager Fabio Capello gestures during their World Cup qualifying match against Kazakhstan at Wemble, Oct. 11. REUTERS/Eddie Keogh

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