Remembrance Sunday tribute ended after nine seconds as Celtic fans sing pro-IRA songs
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During a moment of silence for Remembrance Sunday before the Celtic versus Kilmarnock game, the tribute was cut short after only nine seconds because of boos from Celtic supporters, who began chanting pro-IRA songs.
As referee Nick Walsh signaled the beginning of a moment of silence before the Scottish Premiership match at Rugby Park, some fans in the visiting section began to sing a song commemorating Aidan McAnespie, who was fatally shot by a British soldier at a military checkpoint in Northern Ireland back in 1988.
Some Celtic supporters displayed Irish and Palestinian flags while holding up banners that said: “From Balfour to Starmer, the wrongs of the empire continue, Britain is carrying out genocide in Gaza.”
Referee Walsh decided to cut short the pre-match moment of silence meant to honor the sacrifices made by British and Commonwealth service members in the two world wars and other conflicts. He ended it after only nine seconds, prompting Kilmarnock supporters to boo and jeer at those who had interrupted the quiet.
The protests were clearly visible during the television broadcast, prompting Sky Sports commentator Ian Crocker to express his apologies, stating: "I apologize if the disruption to the quiet was upsetting to you."
This occurred after the Celtic fans let out a chorus of boos when Kilmarnock captain Kyle Vassell walked toward the center of the field carrying a wreath.
A group of Celtic supporters, positioned near where the banners were displayed, later explained their reasons for protesting. In a post on the North Curve Celtic's X account, they stated: “On this Armistice Day, we aim to shed light on the hypocrisy and disgrace of the British government and others who only remember certain lives lost, while ignoring the ongoing genocide in Palestine and not advocating for peace.”
Both managers expressed their disappointment with the fans' conduct and the choice to cut the moment of silence short. Kilmarnock's manager, Derek McInnes, brought up this issue along with his broader frustration over the referee's lack of calls favoring his team during their 2-0 defeat.
"We're baffled by those choices. Celtic even controls when the minute of silence ends. We’re just not being given these decisions," McInnes stated.
When discussing the disruption of the silence, he said: “I found it terrible. Absolutely terrible. I won’t elaborate on it—I’m not a politician or anything—but this is our space, our moment of silence. I really don’t understand why we can’t simply take a moment to stand and show some respect for just one minute.”
Celtic coach Brendan Rodgers acknowledged that the moment of silence should have been observed.
“I believe if we’re having a minute of silence, it ought to last a full minute,” Rodgers stated. “That’s just how it is. You all are familiar with the routine at this time of year. It’s always tough.”
"However, if it's a moment of silence, then that’s what it is. I believe we all wish to honor that. We also recognize that not everyone feels the same way about it, which can lead to differing opinions."
"As I mentioned, I get it, but my conversation is focused on football, and unfortunately, that topic is separate from everything else."
Further contributions made by PA
