Fighting Talker

MLS Rumors has video of Columbus fans harassing New England goalscorer Kheli Dube with racial epithets including the n-word (which is very audible on the video below) and allegedly “sieg heil” (which I can’t hear). Also, bananas were apparently thrown too according to a Boston Globe report. More, including the video evidence is below.

Crew officials need to come out today with a statement denouncing this crap and beginning an investigation into the behavior in that corner. The bottles and other debris thrown at NE players is bad enough, but that a fan (fans?) were taped using racist taunts at opposing players is by far the worst single thing I’ve ever heard at an MLS match.

I’ve been attending MLS matches since the league’s inception and I can honestly tell you that is the first time I have ever heard the n-word directed at a player. I’ve heard some fairly offensive anti-Latino stuff (almost entirely at USA matches, it has to be said) but I’ve never heard the n-word, not once.

Mark McCullers needs to make a statement today explaining how unacceptable that behavior is and needs to exert pressure on the supporters in that corner to “name and shame” the individual(s) who used the n-bomb.

I am also curious to hear what noted Crew fan (and douchebag) Bill Archer has to say on the matter.

Here is the video I am referencing: