Paranoia obscures clarity

A SAD step forward, two obstinate leaps back.

Less than four weeks ago, the horrible death of Gary Speed reminded us that somewhere deep inside professional football a heart still beats, despite the greed, self-interest and ill-will that clogs every artery of the game.

Briefly, football saw the bigger picture and rival factions observed uniquely dignified tributes. One man’s decency in life allowed us a glimpse of a sport not defined by hatred. For a day or two, it wasn’t necessarily all about the three points.