Newcastle Terrace Boys - Pt 2

Last updated : 07 February 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Italy has suspended it's season because of football violence, and ex-Newcastle defender Jean-Alain Boumsong says the Italians must learn a lesson from the English game.

We have spoken to five Newcastle fans who were there during the height of the football violence of the 1970's and 1980's and asked them how the game has changed in this country ... and what the Italians can learn from it.

These lads were involved in Newcastle's most notorious terrace fights, but explain why "firms" have buried their differences and why Italy must get back to reality and encourage families to return to the sport ... just like in England.

This is a five-part article, on this website for the next five days. The names of the contributors have been changed for obvious reasons. Second up is JOE "THE BEAR" from Scotswood.

First question: What methods used by the police and authorities stop football violence?

"Banning orders are a waste of time, as it's so easy to travel these days. The bizzies stop you on the strength that they think you're up to something, but they don't have the rights that you think they have. But no-one knows that, and you try telling a copper he's got no right to arrest you. It's not going to go down.

"They use grasses, that's how they're on top in this country. They get lads on a bad charge, put the fear of God in them threatening a stretch, then offer a deal for information on who's doing what, and where. They don't get lifted because they're on the ****ing payroll."

Second question: What is the answer to the problem in Italy?

"From my experiences abroad the bizzies ARE the problem. They need a crash course in dealing with football fans. There will be a backlash from them because of what happened at the weekend, and they will have public opinion on their side. But at times it takes a disaster to put things right.

"Hillsborough changed the face of football violence in this country. It was not caused by violence, but it showed how dangerous it can be going to a big stadium to watch a game of football."