No friend of the Celtic faithful or the Irish diaspora, but a friend of the Pope, King Billy is held in the highest of esteem by people stuck in 1690.
He’s a historical figure with little relevance today and nobody can really feel upset about imperialist actions centuries ago. However, he courts much division and controversy still, due to the sectarian marches and music performed publicly during the marching season – largely in his name, with banners depicting him.
There’s been plenty of songs by both supports about the conqueror, some historical, some crude. King Billy sought approval from the Pope, invaded England and was rumoured to be a homosexual. That trilogy, along with many other historical points, make him an unlikely hero in staunch circles – but when did education feature in the Loyalist psyche? And sure, didn’t he get one over the Catholics at the Boyne?
Anyway, a statue of the old king stands in Glasgow and, whilst few really care about this, the Green Brigade took the opportunity to wind up the other half of the city, by decorating it in Celtic fashion… quite literally.
We’re out here for you, be in there for us.https://t.co/3OBWggbvlD pic.twitter.com/iUASsVvy9H
— North Curve Celtic (@NCCeltic) October 14, 2020
No fans can enter the stadium on Saturday, but there’s no stopping the Celtic Ultras in securing the tribal one-upmanship and banter that is traditionally part of being a football supporter.
