Merseyside has a history of uniting at times of trouble, and that common feeling among supporters both red and blue has found its latest manifestation in the plight suffered by a disabled Everton fan at Manchester City recently.
The Etihad stadium was far from full for the Capital One Cup semi-final against Everton last week, but a section of those who did turn up managed to cover themselves in disgrace.
Eight year old Everton fan named James Ireland went to the game in Manchester with his father.
Ireland suffers from cerebral palsy, and stewards directed him and his father to the incorrect seats in the ground, and were seated among City fans.
Among the opposition fans Ireland suffered some hideous abuse, being told that he should have been drowned at birth.
Ireland's mother recounted her son's horrific ordeal:
This was JJ’s [Ireland's] first night away match, he was only allowed because it was the cup and he begged us.
He was made up, so excited to see the ground.
We bought the tickets through Everton, it was all above board, but Man City allocated the seats - they should have been safe, especially for a disabled child.
Even if it was with the Man City fans, he should have been safe, nobody should have to hear those words - they got to him and sunk in.
The sharing of Ireland's ordeal on Facebook prompted an outpouring of support on Merseyside from both Everton and Liverpool fans.
Among the many classy responses, one Liverpool fan has offered Ireland his father his tickets for the Merseyside derby at Anfield.
Robbie Owen has offered to give away his tickets, saying that:
It’s shocking what was said to that poor lad. No one ever deserves that. It’s disgusting what was said to him.
Me and my lad would like to give up our tickets to the derby so JJ and his dad can go and see what an away game should be like.
Me and my son will watch the match in the pub, no problem. We look after one another in this city.
