Agreed with Miccle and GKD.
Are some fans really that soft, precious and PC about everything? People are actually somewhat stunned that a football crowd would dare have a go at not only an opposition player, but one of the real characters in the game? Shock, horror, etc.
Honestly guys, its a game of footy. Its nothing personal.
Would people prefer our stadiums to be libraries or something? Are footy fans supposed to sit there like drones?
Big Dell is the kind of player whose personality, ego and energy attracts that kind of theatre and attention from the crowds. He loves it and the crowds love it. Its great fun all round and I hope both parties gave the other some serious verbal last night.
Its not too dissimilar to many instances in Cricket, where even the most respected fielders will often cop an absolute hammering from the crowds behind them, especially after a mistake or two. But that's no reflection of the crowd's real opinion of the bloke. Both the player and fans alike love to play up to it and have a good laugh about it afterwards. Hell, in Australia we even do it to our own players!
I thought it was great last night - little things like that always add to a game, and both Dell and the Broncos faithful would've enjoyed every moment of it. I was sitting at home booing the hell out of him as well, but I also laughed my arse off when the big fella heaved the Steeden up into the stands after getting over the line.
Unfortunately, great characters that attract a crowds attention are all too rare in the game these days. But that's the kind of stuff that adds to a games atmosphere, gets everyone involved and makes them great to watch.
Those who prefer something different, I believe the next Aussie Chess Chamionships are being held in Tassie. Book your tickets now, they're selling fast.
