Photos have arisen on social media alleging that a bus of Cliftonville supporters stopped at the site of the Narrow Water Massacre and destroyed poppy wreaths and floral tributes.
The photos, which have been posted on Twitter and Facebook, have provoked condemnation.
The Narrow Water massacre was an attack by the Provisional IRA in August 1979. The IRA’s South Armagh Brigade ambushed the army with two large roadside bombs at Narrow Water Castle near Warrenpoint.
Eighteen soldiers were killed and six were seriously injured, making the incident the deadliest attack on the army during the Troubles.
The castle is on the banks of the Newry River, which marks the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Cliftonville played Warrenpoint this afternoon, losing 2-1.
That is totally disgusting and exposes the worst of sectarianism and bigotry at Cliftonville FC
— Lord John Kilclooney (@KilclooneyJohn) September 15, 2018
One would have imagined that Cliftonville FC couldn’t sink any lower, but they always surprise us. They bring nothing but shame to local football https://t.co/J43UpgnNHq
— Jamie Bryson (@JamieBrysonCPNI) September 15, 2018
Utterly shocked and saddened to learn that a bus with cliftonville football supporters stopped at the site of the Narrow Water Massacre following their match with Warrenpoint, and destroyed every wreath, poppy cross and floral tribute. pic.twitter.com/jqMMkAamrV
— Richard Mckee (@mckee1690) September 15, 2018
This is a result of Cliftonville fans today!!! I won’t be back near solitude ever again!! Wonder what mr Donnelly will say??? pic.twitter.com/mDRYNbLCGD
— Timmy ⚽️?? (@tngj) September 15, 2018