Hibs are RIGHT to slam fan behaviour and the thought of alcohol in SPFL grounds makes me shudder – Tam McManus

Supporters enjoying a pint or a G&T in the stands before, during and after a serving of football on the park.

It’s the American dream I enjoyed for two spells playing over the pond at Colorado Rapids and then Rochester Rhinos. Unfortunately the thought of trying to replicate those scenes in Scottish football makes me shudder. Relaxing the law banning the sale of alcohol in Scottish grounds - as many still advocate - would be a recipe for disaster. It’s there for a reason.

It’s a sad indictment of our society that we can’t be trusted to have a drink during a game of football. And let’s be clear - I don’t think some fans can be trusted. Recent events have shown that. It’s a sorry state of affairs because 75 per cent of supporters, maybe more, would like to go and enjoy the game with a couple of pints. But there’s a percentage who would just ruin it for everyone else. It’s a real shame because, as I said, the whole vibe in the States was different, the atmosphere was great.

It was a day out that families could enjoy with a drink and without fear of anything untoward. I would love to see that kind of thing in Scottish football. But right now - not a chance. A minority of fans simply can’t be trusted. The behaviour this season has been unacceptable. Missiles being launched. Pyrotechnics. The totally unacceptable chants and sectarianism.

Imagine adding drink into the mix? A small minority would lose the nut and go too far. Not so long ago Scottish football realised it couldn’t handle late kick-offs at the weekend due to drinking. One 5.30pm game on Saturday night in Leith has proved that’s still the case.

It’s symptomatic of a growing level of away fan misbehaviour this season. So well done Hibs on releasing a strong