off topic, but interesting read

[ljunberg19]

This isn't necessarily Arsenal related, but I figured some of you would be interested if you were bored at work or whatever in giving it a look. Its also got a really good look at the Celtic/Rangers history as well as some about Chelsea

http://www.foreignpolicy.com/story/cms.php?story_id=2427

[billyho96]

Nice article

I think if someone told me I could only see one match in Europe for the rest of my life, I think I'd pick a late season Celtic v. Rangers.

I call myself a Celtic supporter, though FSW has ended my ability to follow them much, and my passion for the Gunners is a full time job. I am protestant, though everyone where I live is protestant, and can't imagine a rivalry possible as fierce with ties to your faith being as strong of a person identifier in that part of the world. Though I hear it is not as bad as it used to be.

I can only imagine the atmosphere at a Celtic v. Rangers match.

[billyho96]

well my post was not a clear as I'd like (as usual)

what I meant was, where I live we may have a nice methodist v. baptist joke. But as a whole they are good natured and harmless. The division historically in Europe between what it means to be catholic and what it means to be protestant has created a more real tension that other places. Almost like American race relation. Ugly stuff.

[phishy]

Originally posted by billyho96
. Almost like American race relation. Ugly stuff.

its a global issue buddy~

[billyho96]

Originally posted by phishy
its a global issue buddy~

I only speak of what I have experienced on subjects of such importance. I'm only familiar with my small part of the world.

didn't mean to offend

[Coach_McGuirk]

Thanks for the read. At least now I know why the Dallas Stars claim they have no money to resign their own players: stupid Tom Hicks took a bath by buying Corinthians!

[AmericanGunner]

Great article. As far as the rivalries. The closest American sports has to the passion of a rivalry are the college football games in rivalry week in the south and midwest.
Unless lesser clubs in these leagues get sugar daddies with deep pockets. I think it will always be the rich big clubs of each league that will always be at or near the top each year (Real Madrid, Man Utd, Ajax, Bayern Munich, Juventus, Galatasary, etc.) The lesser clubs will be feeder clubs if they have a player of exceptional ability.
It would also be interesting to see what would happen to the sport if it took off in the states. I would think some good (more money for the sport) and some bad (rule changes that don't respect the tradition of the game).