Kilmarnock manager Derek McInnes has criticised a section of Celtic supporters for disrupting the minute’s silence on Remembrance Sunday at Rugby Park.
The tribute, observed across UK football grounds, was cut short by referee Nick Walsh after just nine seconds due to jeers and chants from the away end.
The disruption included chants referencing the death of Aidan McAnespie, an unarmed man shot by a British soldier in County Tyrone in 1988.
Adding to the controversy, the Green Brigade unfurled a banner that read: “From Balfour to Starmer, the crimes of the empire live on, Britain is committing genocide in Gaza.”
McInnes expressed his dismay at the interruption, calling it a moment of disrespect.
“Celtic even decided when the minute silence stops,” McInnes said.
“I mean, we don’t get these decisions but I thought that was awful. Awful. Why? I’m not going to lie, I’m not a politician or anything, but it’s our ground, it’s our minute silence. I don’t get why we shouldn’t have the wherewithal just to stand and show a bit of respect for one minute.”
Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers also weighed in, acknowledging the complexities of such occasions but emphasizing the need for respect.
“I think if it’s a minute silence it should be a minute. That’s the reality of it. I think you guys know the script up here at this time of the year. It’s always a challenge. But if it’s a minute silence, it’s a minute silence. I think we all want to respect that.
“And we all understand that some don’t. So it can be a divisive one. But like I say, I understand. But really, my chat is for the football and that’s something else. That’s outside of that, sadly.”
The incident overshadowed a 2-0 victory for Celtic, but McInnes’ remarks ensured the focus remained on the disruption.