WORCESTER rugby fans will be asked to observe a minute’s silence in honour of Margaret Thatcher on Sunday.
The Warriors travel to Saracens in the Premiership this weekend and the north London club has announced the tribute to Baroness Thatcher before the 3pm kick-off.
Debate has raged among fans and sport governing bodies since the former Prime Minister’s death, with many opposing tributes.
However, Worcester Warriors head coach Richard Hill urged fans to honour the silence “out of respect”.
He said: “The minute’s silence was put to us today (Wednesday) and the club are happy to go along with that.
“As far as we are concerned, we will respect that and it is Saracens’ decision to do it.
“I personally have no objections to it, but I don’t think politics should really influence sport in that way.
“I would expect the travelling Worcester fans to observe the minute’s silence and think they definitely should do out of respect.”
Elsewhere, the Premier League and Football League have not asked clubs to honour Baroness Thatcher’s death, amid fears fans would not wish to pay their respects to a figure who divides opinion so strongly.
The split among fans was echoed by Warriors supporters responding to the announcement on Twitter.
@hch_walls1h said: “may be the 1st time trouble is seen in a rugby crowd.. politics make ppl act out of sorts.whats it got to do with rugby anyway??”
Barny, @battenhallblue1h, asked “what if sarries fans make noise. Will we get the blame?”
Phill Mason, @Phill_Mason1h, said: “Why politicise rugby in this way? Minute silence at rugby should only be about rugby!”
And Cathy, @wiiaholic1, said: “think it is highly inappropriate unless she had links with club. Shd be no politics in rugby!”
What do you think? Are you heading to the game and will you respect the minute's silence?
Or do you think sport should not get involved in political tributes?
Whatever your view, use the form below to let us know...
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel