I can never understand the barracking that some of our players suffer when they are under-performing or make basic errors; even in this the most tense period in our recent history. I can remember days gone by when the crowd would start singing even louder after the team concede a goal, willing the team on and attempting to help carry the team over the finishing line.
Sadly this type of support appears to be reserved for European games only now as the new norm is to hurl abuse and vitriol towards the players when the chips are down. What good does this barracking of the players do? Absolutely no good whatsoever, if anything it adds to their anxiety and makes heads go down. As soon as the crowd start to get on the teams backs the players get nervous. This has the effect of spurring on the opposition who start to get the impression that we are playing with a weak hand. All the poker players out there in TImdom know that you don't want to display weakness in a head to head situation.
There were many positives to take from last night, most importantly the three points, but it would appear that below par performances are not only evident on the pitch and abuse is the new form of support! It used to be that the players would be willed on by the support they receive from the stands, they are now willed on to avoid the abuse! Positive vibes do not always inspire victory, but negativity always inspires anxiety, and that is something that you don't want on the pitch.
Thankfully though there were many like-minded people in the ground who were able to show their support for the team in a more appropriate manner for the ninety minutes, approximately ten minutes after most of these so-called supporters had left.
If you feel the need to criticise, why not do it in the pub or online rather than in the stands.
Finally, well done to the Green Brigade for another excellent display at the game last night. The Brother Walfrid Banner was the best yet and I applaud you for your efforts.
Yours in Celtic
Clydebuilt