Tuppeny trouble
It was unfortunate that this Weekend’s Manchester Derby between “City” and “United” had all the wrong headlines after a coin thrown from the crowd cut the brow of Manchester United’s defender Rio Ferdinand. The incident, naturally regretted by Manchester City, has resulted in continuous debate over the way to avoid any repeats in future English matches.
Some have said disposal of coins before entering stadia (not really practical, when change comes from purchases inside); erection of netting (reduces the visibility for spectators), polymer screens (same problem though dirt or scratching ‘blurs’ visibility further). In the latter case, surely an opportunity for a scratch proof alternative?
I for one just hope that we don’t return to the worst games in our beautiful game when hooligan was rife. There would be no end to the implications and the common-place shields escorting players and officials off the pitch, as in Turkey, could be the next step.
All this in the Week when we consider a reintroduction of standing areas in football stadia.
As to the fact they still search for the culprit I am amazed. After recently seeing the accuracy and clarity of modern-day CCTV in sporting venues as witnessed in a private viewing of Avigilon technology – they can now focus on each fan to detect the smallest detail. I predict whoever launched the two pence will be caught!
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