A long time on, amid the rise in hostility, it is also value remembering the straightforward, no-nonsense solidarity proven between the 2 units of supporters within the days after the catastrophe: the next weekend, greater than 200 United followers from throughout the nation made the journey to Anfield to pay their respects.
Each males want to see our fierce rivalry with the Merseyside membership endure, however alongside an consciousness that some points ought to unite each single match-going soccer fan, no matter their allegiances.
“There’s completely nothing fallacious with the extreme rivalry,” says Edwards, “and it couldn’t have been higher illustrated by the latest league match, the place the 2 groups have been slugging it out, giving it completely every little thing, and the supporters have been giving it completely every little thing. However I didn’t hear a single offensive chant this day trip.
“It’s a must to separate the rivalry from the tragedy; it’s a must to perceive that the tragedy was a horrible occasion in soccer’s historical past that ought to by no means repeat itself. And we must be united in that perspective.”
“Lots of people simply flow, as a result of their mates are doing it, and it’s peer strain, to a level,” suggests Nigel. “However be taught your historical past and take a second to suppose earlier than you communicate…
“The animosity won’t ever disappear, and there are various causes for that – historic in addition to football-wise. However, finally, it may have been us.”