Although the coverage of this match, against eternal rival Boca Juniors, is shaped by a biased perception of what took place, it is helpful in seeing how violence is increasingly used as a tactic in Argentine soccer.
The article asks several questions. Why has a climate of war taken hold at matches [note: the word "garra" and "guerrero" are constantly referenced in magazines like River]? Why were players from River attacked if the anger was directed at the…
Two weeks after River's fans turn angry due to 'unjust' officiating, the same scene takes place. This time the police do not simply appear on the field but also use water hoses and gas canisters.
Actions in recent games provide the writer of River support in their assertion that violence by players has spiraled. They also take time to nceremind readers that River is not the only team suffering from violent plays. Article next to it talks…
Critical assessment of the continued use of violence by River's opponents and the failure of referees to sanction them. No reference is provided to determine if any River player does the same.
By juxtaposing the use of violent tactics against talented players with the skills of 'criollo' players this magazine only accentuates the opinions found in larger sports magazines like El Grafico.
Coupled with the constant criticism of referees, articles castigating other teams for using violent tactics against River players only fuels the sense of injustice that often leads to the actions of a few 'hinchas'. This article deals with players…
By assigning blame to referees and opposing players (not calling penalties, rough play) the magazine absolves River's players from losses or ties that are seen as 'defeats'.