I'm doing some research on the history of Clydebank FC at the moment. This newspaper report concerns the first incarnation of the club who went by the name Clydebank, who existed from 1888-1895. From what I've read of football fans of the late 19th and early 20th Century they appeared to be ready to riot at a moment's notice. I've come across numerous stories of punch-ups on the terraces, punch-ups that started on the terrace and ended up on the pitch, and just plain assaults on players by spectators. This report is from 1889.
From the Glasgow Herald Monday 9th September 1889
Clydebank vs Vale of Leven Wanderers
The above teams met on Saturday on the Hamilton Park Grounds, Clydebank. There was a very large turnout of spectators, but at the advertised time of starting Clydebank found themselves short of four men, and the committee had no alternative but to make a present of the tie to the Wanderers. This created quite a stir among the spectators. A rush was made on the treasurer, demanding the money back. Confusion and shouting prevailed, and ultimately checks were given to those desiring their money back, and peace was restored. The teams played a friendly game, and it was evident the Clydebank team had under-estimated their abilities Clydebank winning by 3 goals to 1.
