Good news, this.
The two Manchester United supporters who draped a huge ‘Murderers’ banner over the M602 – the stretch of motorway between Liverpool and Manchester – have been charged with a public order offence, reports the Guardian.
Before the second leg of our Europa League Last 16 victory over our bitter rivals last month, a 24-year-old from Manchester and a 20-year-old from Oldham – both unnamed – incited Reds with the banner which all Liverpool fans driving to the game were able to visibly see, until it was taken down by police.
The banner also made reference to the date of the Hillsborough tragedy, proving in no uncertain terms the provocation behind the gesture.
The tie was a controversial one, with Liverpool fans charged with obscene chanting, despite clearly audible songs from United fans during the first-leg at Anfield.
In fairness, UEFA are now investigating all chants from both sets of supporters, and both clubs have been charged for the crowd violence which marred the end of the Old Trafford tie.
Many of the events from that night off the pitch have no place in football, but it’s especially horrible to see anyone disrespect the dead. We’re glad these thugs have been dealt with.