FORMER Celtic manager Ronny Deila has slammed disrespectful Anderlecht fans after his sides game against their Belgian rivals was abandoned due to fans throwing flares onto the field.
Standard Liege we’re winning 3-1 when a section of Anderlecht supporters decided to hijack the match and eventually get it stopped.
Standard Liege were awarded the three points for the game but the former Hoops boss wasn’t happy at all by how things transpired.
As quoted by RecordSport, Deila said: “I can understand the frustration. Winning and losing are part of football, but there are also rules to respect. That is not what I saw on Sunday and that makes me sad.
“I have never experienced this before. It’s a lack of respect for the game, for football. It does not reflect well on our league. It’s a difficult situation for Anderlecht, but again, you have to respect the rules.”
Ronny has been continuing his managerial career in Belgium after a great stint in the USA with New York City. Deila brought the MLS cup home for the MLS side last season. When the Standsrd Liege job came about, he decided it was time to go back to Europe and manage.
Flares and football have a history in most leagues. UEFA are continually fining clubs, including Celtic, for their fans using pyro inside the stadium during UEFA competitions. The hazard and safety issue means they can’t be used safely.
It’s a very big part of ultras culture and will continue to happen at games. Throwing them into the park is more than a step too far.
