The last few days have felt like being in a huge online huddle.
The level of support has been overwhelming.
The Celtic family have an understanding of fairness and what is right.
I cannot better Roy Greenslade’s analysis of the Sun’s decision to first commission the serialisation of Downfall and then the decision to pull it.
So I won’t try.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/media/greenslade/2012/sep/03/sun-scotland?CMP=twt_gu
In the midst of all of this it has been very easy to forget what the book is really about.
Downfall is the story of the biggest ever scandal in British sport.
This story isn’t about me or the Sun, it’s about the behaviour of the establishment club at Edmiston Drive.
There is no precedent for what Rangers did during the first decade of the new millennium.
The book proves that the truth was out there, but many couldn’t handle it.
Over the last 48 hours, Downfall has leapt in the Amazon UK best seller rankings.
At the moment it is number 27.
When the Sun interviewed me it wasn’t even in the top 1000!
The reason the publisher agreed the serialisation with the Sun was the same reason I took the big tax case story to the News of the World in 2010 – to get the truth out to the largest possible readership.
Indeed, that was the same reason I shared my scoop with the Sun on the sheriff officers paying a visit to Ibrox over the wee tax case in August 2011. I simply wanted those snaps to be seen by a mass readership.
It was a commercial decision for the Sun to go for the book and it was the same rationale that made them drop the serialisation.
It wasn’t personal, it was just business.
There are wider issues to this episode, but others are better placed at present to analyse them.
Paul McConville is one of those people.
No one who knows me would recognise the characterisation of Phil Mac Giolla Bháin that appeared in the Sun’s editorial, but that is a job for another day.
In the midst of all of this a book was being printed.
It contains a valuable commodity that should be treasured.
The truth.
petergrant
just ordered the book Waterstones,Celtic supporter buy it
DO YOUR BIT, buy it
Furious at (the)2012.and the sun
September 14, 2012 at 5:15 pm
Jas
Congratulations phil just ordered your book thanks to a reccomendation by paul mcconville HH
September 7, 2012 at 7:28 am
Big Mike
I posted on the 4th and it is still in moderation! Very strange.
September 6, 2012 at 6:31 pm
Phil Mac Giolla Bhain
Mike.
Re-post your comment-I can’t see it.
September 6, 2012 at 6:55 pm
Paul M
Hi Phil,
I only know of the furore about your book through following the sage of the last few days online. Who reads the Sun anyway? Apparently the racing sections not bad, but I don’t think any serious journalist is employed by a ‘newspaper’ that’s more famous for naked ladies and made up headlines than investigative journalism.
But I do know quite a few people who’ve ordered your book!
No pasaran,
Paul
September 6, 2012 at 3:29 am
Stevie
Congratulations Phil.
September 6, 2012 at 12:05 am
Been there...
Phil, I see that the latest tag for you seems to be ‘failed journalist’. If a ‘failed journalist’ broke the biggest story in Scottish, possibly British sporting history, what term would be suitable to describe the half-witted tribe of scribbling sheep who, while sucking hungrily at the teet of David Murray, completely missed (or ignored) this golden opportunity.
This was our Watergate and the whole lot of them missed it completely, and yet the guy who got the scoop is a ‘failed journalist’. Words completely fail me…
September 5, 2012 at 6:54 pm
Ben mcginlay
This is classic tactics by the establishment to discredit Phil and to paint a picture of being a bit of a crank. All the while ignoring and burying their heads in the sand and not looking at reality. I really can’t wait till the whole sorry story comes out. Maybe some journalist from the MSM will have an attack of duty and report the facts.
September 5, 2012 at 7:47 pm
RPM
We should follow Liverpool supporters lead and spread the word in boycotting The Sun. The supporters of that new club seem to think they can bring the country to a halt if they don’t get their own way – lets show them that we and every other honest supporter won’t be pushed around any-more by these Neanderthals.
September 5, 2012 at 6:16 pm
Ben mcginlay
I wouldn’t waste any my money on any tabloids. They are all the same. Misreporting facts about Newco to try and fudge the real story. They would have been happy to sweep it all under the carpet, as they had been doing till administration and liquidation kicked in.
September 5, 2012 at 7:50 pm
Frankier
Philip, I don’t think you will need to worry about any of these cowardly cretins harming you. The bluffing is their way of trying to put the frighteners on. Since most of them couldn’t shovel sh!te from a dying crow I really don’t think any of them would have the guts to show face but if the unexpected does happen please don’t even try to defend yourself, otherwise you will be called a terrorist.
September 5, 2012 at 6:03 pm
Kieran Gallagher
I really hope the new found PR that money can’t buy will Make Phil a millionaire…any chance of a ticket for the All Ireland Final??
September 5, 2012 at 4:08 pm
cath
Have received delivery date from Amazon. Between the 17th. & 23rd. September
September 5, 2012 at 4:02 pm
Bill
Downfall 3 Incubator 1
I will order 3 and give a couple away as presents. I have read the Incubator once; not my cup of tea really. I can see it from both sides; on the one hand a satirical sketch a la python on the other hand quite likely to rouse an Ibrox mob. How so many Rangers fans came to read it is a puzzle. I wouldn’t have had you down as their kind of author. The Sun has a reading age of about 7 yrs old. I suspect and hope your book will be more suitable for adults.
September 5, 2012 at 1:51 pm
Been there...
Hi Phil, I’ve just read some truly shocking reviews on Amazon.com that make VERY personal allegations against you. There people truly are blinded by hate. I, and many others I assume, have reported the comments to Amazon.
I know that you don’t want to give these guys a platform but I think some response from you to some of these allegations might be helpful as the hate machine appears to be gearing up to massively damage your credibility ahead of your book launch.
Thank God we’re on the right side of the divide… Can’t wait to get my copy anyway.
September 5, 2012 at 12:13 pm
Rebel67
More power to yer laptop Phil , dont give up the good fight and our day will surely come !
September 5, 2012 at 11:22 am
262 KubN
Occasionally buy the DR which is only a baw hair (if that) up from the Scum. The sooner both are history the better. If printing parts of your book had hastened that, taking their “pieces of hate” might (just might)have been justified. Your book might have some details I have missed, but I’ll wait till it’s in my local library to read it. Keep up the good – but only the really good – work.
September 5, 2012 at 10:28 am
delbhoyk
The truths out and they dont like the fact it was their own puppet master that destoyed their club. It would suit them better to blame the Taigs Peter Lawell and anything to do with Celtic for the demise of their loyalist bigot bnp supported club.You only have to look at their marches with all the England tops to see how they have turned on their country and the national team the kkk dont have a look in with this club and its supporters of the old rangers.The fact is they walked away while their club died while sir David lunches on some lamb washed down with some fine wine.
September 5, 2012 at 10:15 am
ryan mac
Keep at ‘em Phil. There’s so much more to come out about “therangers” you’ll be a billionaire by the time this epic is concluded. The honest and truthful football fans need someone of your ilk, coz the msm are done for. Never again will these fans accept the bile that they spew. Your an inspiration to a generation, Phil, we appplaud you.
September 5, 2012 at 9:17 am
tambutnotbam
Lord Nimmo Smith told us all that Sir Davie-boy Murray could not and did not act alone and the police will get to the bottom of that.
Lord Glennie ruled that the SFA had NO authority to pass a transfer embargo and the SFA ignored Lord Glennies Court of Session ruling and passed that precise transfer embargo anyway.
Lord Carloway resigned in disgust.
Lord Hodge is yet to pass HIS judgement on the documents sent to him as detailed in Duff and Phelps report dated 24-8-12.
In their report they claim that they did not act unlawfully in their administration processes of Rangers Football Club and that they did NOT act under a conflict of interest as alleged in the BBC documentary….. Rangers — The Men Who Sold The Jerseys.
Lord Hodges ruling on Duff and Phelps behaviour during that time is crucial and we all await his ruling with bated breath.
None more so than the BBC`s TOP legal team and Mr Isaacs the forensic accountant used by them in their documentary.
September 5, 2012 at 6:10 am
tambutnotbam
You cant keep a good man down Phil.
The truth billows round their ears but they can not hear.
The truth looks them straight in the eye yet they can not see.
There is nothing wrong with their eyesight nor their hearing and the vacuum they once dwelled is cracked “ready” to smash asunder.
The crescendo of noise and the brilliance of light flashing then before them shall bring them unto their knees.
They can not escape their day of reckoning Phil.
For they have but heard and seen as nothing that is yet to befall upon them.
Trust me.
September 5, 2012 at 5:57 am
Paradise Lost
If Glasgow has yet to produce it’s very own version of ‘Elliot Ness’, now might be a good time to do so!
Keep up the good fight, Phil.
September 5, 2012 at 5:53 am
Tommy McArdle
already did, don’t know why it was not accepted?????
Please reply
September 5, 2012 at 5:28 am
Tommy McArdle
I am amazed, you must be smiling from ear to ear:-)
To have a national newspaper agree with everything you have written, but not print anything has to be a great acheivement.
Don’t think I’ve ever seen that before., l.o.l.
Also for them to put on a big promo, & then pull it, is just another saga in this whole mess., you cannae make it up., l.o.l.
Finally, for your book to go from 1000, to 27, in 1 day, just makes it all the better.
Go get them Phil, you deserve it.
You have shown them all up, & apparently, they don’t like it, but then again, what else is new. l.o.l.
MAC.1 in Bramalea.
September 5, 2012 at 5:25 am
Paul
Hi Phil. I’m looking forward to reading your book. I bought 3 =).
Anyway I can get one signed somehow?
September 5, 2012 at 3:08 am
SamBrowneBelt
I think everyone should buy The Sun tomorrow. And then, everyone should write to every company who advertises in it, and tell every one of those companies that we will NEVER ever buy The Sun again.
Our friends in Liverpool should be able to give us some ideas too.
September 5, 2012 at 1:27 am
bodbhoy
Phil you are the epitome of everything they’re not, the opposite end of the social spectrum. That in itself must give you immense satisfaction, you are an atriculate and principled person and all right minded folk are grateful for you investigatory skills exposing the corruption within this former establishment. Great to see the books flying off the shelves, you deserve all the success this work brings.
September 5, 2012 at 12:56 am
peader
I want Craig White to autograph mine.
September 5, 2012 at 12:41 am
TB Legend
Good luck, Phil.
You probably know already but there’s a lot of bile on the comments section on Amazon, dont know if you want it removed or left on to embarass them.
Your call.
When is Downfall 2,the Sevco fiasco coming out
September 4, 2012 at 11:32 pm
Paul C
Phil
Never written before, but been a keen reader for a long time since I discovered your blog.
The Sun in Scotland are merely an extension
of the MSM that collapse under the weight of the establishment – what more would you expect?
Your posts, books and professional journalism have unquestionably provided clarity on a corrupt regime which extends to the Irish/Scottish culture.
The Incubator article they cite as being the “issue” is a feeble excuse, but an excuse none the less. In these times mate, remain vigilant, fact is fact, a wee joke at their expense is not required to expose what is what.
My only critisism of you is that the article in question may have left you open for the the sichophants to protest!! It is not your greatest work, but true.
Keep the moral high ground, thou shall prevail.
September 4, 2012 at 11:27 pm
k
Hi Phil, looking forward to reading your new book.
Incubator? Try this latest post from Finian Cunningham. http://www.globalresearch.ca/britains-global-legacy-of-conflict/
September 4, 2012 at 11:10 pm
k
Hi Phil,
September 4, 2012 at 11:03 pm
droid
Phil, Chapeau!
I am in awe of your ability to manipulate the shameless sevconians to provide your highly anticipated “Book of Truths” with such fantastic free publicity AND notoriety.
What deep and beautiful theorem did you apply?
Did the work of Pavlov influence you in any way?
September 4, 2012 at 10:23 pm
Phil Mac Giolla Bhain
Pavlov?
Is that a bell I hear ringing?
Very hungry now…
September 4, 2012 at 11:50 pm
Dannybhoy
Will an ebook version be made available to all us Internet bam pots. If so, when is the likely release date?
September 4, 2012 at 10:16 pm
Tony
I have a lot of Books in my house,but have only 5 treasured ones which sit in a small cabinet in my front room. I assure you Phil your book will be joining those 5 as soon as it appears in my local Eason’s store. Well done on all your work. You are a legend.
September 4, 2012 at 10:02 pm
serva fidem
Phil
Spectacular own goal by the Shun.
More power to your elbow – the truth will not be denied!
SF
September 4, 2012 at 9:47 pm
Gordy
not only are you a man of great principles, integrity and ‘true grit’, you are also one smart cookie ….. you knew exactly what would happen when you agreed to discussions with the sun ………. absolutely brilliant…..!!!
I have only read 2 books in my life (honest)………’Shane’ for my O level English, and 1984 for my higher English….. still got both ….He He
However, I have ordered your book tonight, and I cannot wait to read it ……..!!!
YOU ARE A CREDIT TO YOURSELF AND TO YOUR PROFESSION …… THANKS TO YOU, JUSTICE HAS PREVAILED AND THE PURVEYORS OF CORRUPTION ARE WHERE THEY DESERVE TO BE …..GONE …!!
September 4, 2012 at 9:43 pm
Padraig K
I’m thinking that by way of their u-turn, and their real reason therefore, that those chaps at The Sun may have inadvertently unearthed a social problem in Scotland.
Good honest journalists, who aren’t afraid to put their heads above the parapets may want to investigate this further!!
September 4, 2012 at 9:23 pm
Walter Valentine
Pre-ordered the book 2 weeks ago Phil. Keep up the great work. Good will always overcome evil.
September 4, 2012 at 9:20 pm
Castaway
I ordered your book must be about two weeks ago. Amazon have just told me can’t now deliver until earliest 15th September. Couldn’t be a reprint already. Could it?
September 4, 2012 at 9:05 pm
soresidesbhoy
We are all Phil MacGiollabhain. Falling out with The Sun should be worn as a badge of honour Phil. They have never been ‘friends’ of ours, and will they remain the right wing rag they always were. Looking forward to the book. I have ordered two so far. Let the truth shout out. Hail Hail
September 4, 2012 at 8:53 pm
SeanBonJovi
The Sun has left themselves open to a spectacular own goal with that photo of the bigot Goram being recirculated.
I’m sure your aware of this Phil but you need to go for the jugular on this one.
September 4, 2012 at 8:53 pm
The Wallace
I find it odd that none of the Loyal threatened boycott and became bolshy over the nude second in line to the throne photo scoop, but become incandescent over a book that has not even arrived in the public purview yet, but it is about their former team.
I don’t know how you should react to this, but you seem more unpopular with the Hunnish than the public humiliation that is Harry’s ginger nut sac. Which only goes to show they hate Tims above all else, even the demise of their club is now being blamed Peter Lawell if you read the real biased and unproven innuendo being spouted by the likes of Bill McMurdo, I had the misfortune to come across his blog today.
Keep your tinder dry and keep you and your family safe, then get on with volume two and really bury these spiteful, bullying hypocrites,
Hail, Hail.
September 4, 2012 at 8:42 pm
AD2012
I’ll start by saying I’m not a Celtic fan, I’m a Rangers fan. I do not attend Orange walks. I do not listen to loyalist flute music. I do not have a problem with the Catholic faith or anything affiliated with it. I am not a loyalist or a Unionist. I have no great love for the monarchy. I am not a protestant. I pay my taxes. I work for a living. I do not steal. I do not cheat.
Now we have the stereotypes out of the way- The fact that I have been made out as such in such a disgusting manner is frankly offensive. I simply enjoy the game and love my team, it has no political or religious connotations for me, and for thousands of other Rangers fans. Yet I, and every other fan like me, have been tarred with this brush. You may say “the incubator” is merely a satire, i disagree. I have always been of the opinion that the minute you begin to regard any social group as less than human (which your blog most definately did) you are on a very slippery slope. I don’t speak about Celtic fans, or any other group, in that manner and I expect the same treatment in return. Of course there are moronic, vile people who follow my team, just the same as there are moronic, vile people who follow Celtic, and Man Utd and Marseille and Barcelona and any other club you can think of. There are vile, moronic people in every walk of life, everywhere. But for too long it has been widely portrayed that Rangers Football Club is the only social institution that attracts such people, and Celtic, by contrast is a Club which only attracts the finest, most upstanding members of society. That Rangers fans are somehow “worse” than everyone else. I for one am sick of it and have been for a long time. I have a sense of humour and love a bit of Old Firm banter, but some of the postings I have seen here take it further than “banter”.
September 4, 2012 at 10:06 pm
Ben mcginlay
AD2012 The the rangers 2012 fans are one of the worst in Britain. The facts are there for all to see. Also there is no such thing as O#d F##m and the so called banter that goes with it. I hate any association with your club. I don’t care if you say you are decent. If you really were you would ask more questions of your own club rather than come onto websites looking to correct people by putting them right. And just for the record, I couldn’t give a monkeys about colour creed race or religion. It’s all about the team. And your team and club and the establishment to me are abhorrent.
September 5, 2012 at 6:10 am
rmk11
cant wait for the book,its been a hell of a story and plenty more to come.
No surprises from MSM on the serialisation pull out, best of luck fella
September 4, 2012 at 8:41 pm
OwenyBhoy
Been reading your blogs and stuff for quite a while on Celtic Network and in Alternative View. An intelligent and subjective voice in a sea of mainstream media prejudice, bigorty and lies. Was really surprised to see your article in The Sun. I understand you are author with a product to sell but, I was very disappointed that you chose to cooperate with the people who practice the above.
Not surprised it has turn out the way it has. Good luck with the book and keep the faith.
September 4, 2012 at 9:33 pm
john
book now no 8 in charts
September 4, 2012 at 8:35 pm
GAZTHECHEF
IM PHIL MACGIOLLABHAIN!
September 4, 2012 at 8:12 pm
Dal
A great leader of the Scottish miners once said if the right-wing tabloids don’t like you, then you must be doing something right.
September 4, 2012 at 8:09 pm
mik67
Thank you Phil. I just want to wish you well and hope that your book sells like crazy.
I respect your courage.
September 4, 2012 at 7:47 pm
paul
how can we possibly entertain independence of scotland when this nonsense still prevails.
you may not be correct but why should the bullies win
power to your pen
September 4, 2012 at 7:26 pm
Dal
Suffice to say we’ll be getting a book which has validity and value. It’s predictable that our Scottish press lack any values. Like the ‘secret society’ they’re trying limply to enter the 21 century. One Daily Record hack wrote that McCoist/Green will march into SFA headquarters soon, with Sevco fans at their back. Another veiled threat by an insular breed of journalist. Death threats, intimidation and ignorance. Just like an unhinged lynch mob from the deep-south. It’s peculiar how RFC are consistently nasty towards friend and foe alike. The truth always wins in the end however.
September 4, 2012 at 6:40 pm
rosses
My god….I can see the Sevco bigots blow a new gasket at each rise in the Amazon charts of a book exposing their cheating and resulting MSM cover-up
September 4, 2012 at 6:15 pm
Arthur Mulholland
Looking forward to reading the book Phil , keep up the good work you do,HH
September 4, 2012 at 5:16 pm
Frank O Donnelll
Phil with you all the way, thanks for what you are doing it is very much appreciated, the full impact of what you are working on and revealing will not be know for many years to come
What we do know is that every fan (including the genuine fans of Rangers)in this country and even Europe has been treated disgracefully by a management team hellbent on fraud and corruption on a scale never known, to keep the faithful in a life style that they thought should and never would end.
Now thanks you and people like you who are committed to free speech and are not afraid to stand up and be counted the truth is out.
They ignored the warnings so they have no excuse.
Phil on behalf of so many people I thank you for what you have done so far
They have shafted everyone
September 4, 2012 at 5:06 pm
John Robb
Phil, I am glad you are now no longer deemed “credible” by the Sun, and by extension the Murdoch press. It should be a badge of honour by those on the side of real truth and justice to be deemed beyond the pale by the likes of the Sun. I can’t but help wonder was your rationale for swimming with those particular sharks? I am sure you must be familiar with the Boycott the Sun – http://www.anfieldroad.com/dont-buy-the-sun/ – and the Sun’s hideous lies about those who died at Hillsborough. You claim to want to reach a wide audience, well, many of those who might be interested in this story wouldn’t touch the Sun with a bargepole.
http://www.contrast.org/hillsborough/
I am surprised you didn’t show solidarity with those advocating a boycott of the Sun. Especially when we sing YNWA too.
September 4, 2012 at 4:27 pm
iain
good luck with the book phil i will be purchasing one myself, however i wonder is the rangers saga over or does it have someway to run yet, more importantly whats the hold up with big tax case result and can bdo recoup property sold to charles greens consortium for the pittance paid .or have we just witnessed the biggest hijack of business assets ever. could creditors make a class action claim against duff and phelps for mis representation of creditors …tell me more phil how about an update on the state of play and possible or probable outcomes
September 4, 2012 at 4:06 pm
Marc
Oh! Mac Ghiolla Bain what hast thou done?? You should know better than to continually noise-up the peepil and you should also know that anyone with more than two brain cells to rub together recognises the Sun’s editorial comment for what it is a,totally dishonest apologetic piece of journalism that itself “undermines the entire industry.”
You are quite correct in saying “There are wider issues to this episode”. Perhaps you should also have said “deep-rooted”. This episode shows that the West of Scotland has yet to leave the Dark Ages in some respects and perhaps never will.These attitudes are (privately shared) by some of those in power and hence largely tolerated.Sadly I don’t see any change in the landscape no matter how well educated our society becomes.
As for you “Old Bhoy” allow me to add my feeble support to you as one who doesn’t always agree with your sentiments and sometimes (IMHO)strong views but does always recognise excellent thought provoking journalism. Keep the Faith!
September 4, 2012 at 4:05 pm
joe burt
Phil.
They have never and will never be able to comprehend the that they are the masters of their own downfall.
They cannot see past their bigotry and ignorance that what they have done is push your book further into the spot light, so i suppose we should thank them for that.
I was intending waitng for the book to come out on Kindle but have just ordered a copy.
I know you will never bow down to the Fascist politics these,im finding it hard to describe them,people! spout.
Keep up the good work im sure by nov you will be working on part 2.
Keep The Faith Phil.
September 4, 2012 at 3:57 pm
hokeypokey
Time for solidarity.
I’m Phil MacGiolla Bhain!
September 4, 2012 at 3:56 pm
Ben mcginlay
I’m Phil Mac Giolla Bain !!!!!!!! Picture the scene, all the good guys standing on the ruins of what used to be Ibrokes and all claiming to be the one man. Priceless. Like a Spartacus in the west of Scotland. YNWA
September 4, 2012 at 5:29 pm
Tommo
Everything that has happened with the Sun’s behaviour was to be expected Phil we may put it down to their neivity to the reaction the book would receive in the west of Scotland.
This little country of ours can only swallow little doses of the truth at a time and it seems this is not the time for your book Phil. As long as people are still in denial we will have to accept it and give them time to readjust to the loss that they have suffered.
After all football is only a sport accepted by every other club in the country as such. Fortunately for yourself Phil ‘DOWNFALL’ has received great publicity throughout the serialisation being withdrawn. Prehaps some other newspaper will publish the serialisation when they eventually realise it is only a tribute band they presently follow in the lower league. I have pre-ordered ‘Downfall’ through Amazon. truth has no equal.
September 4, 2012 at 3:49 pm
Gerryj67
They blame everybody but themselves. One day they will see the truth that the blame is from their own leaders & msm
September 4, 2012 at 3:38 pm
An Dun
Up to no. 27 ! Great publicity for the book Phil, the more cynical among us might begin to think the publishers were hoping for such a predictable reaction from the peepil – though I in no way seek to trivialise the vile threats and slurs made against you.
September 4, 2012 at 3:31 pm
Dougie
Effectively this is ‘Mob Rule’
Scottish football had the chance to bury this lot once and for all, but didn’t have the balls to follow through.
September 4, 2012 at 3:24 pm
Francis Gerald Allen
Congratulations Phil;I think the endorsement of Roy Greenslade and Alex Thompson will do you far more good than the censorship of the vermin at the Sun. Must make sure that I buy a copy over the next couple of weeks( going to Bulgaria on Sunday for 2 weeks, is there any chance of it being on the bookshelves of W. H. Smith etc. by the weekend?)Hopefully Phil they have signed a contract with you for the serialisation in the Sun, and your lawyer will be doing some negotiating with the bastards; cheer me up and tell me that you are going to get a nice little earner out of the Sun over this. And Harries gets the bullet for succumbing to the threats from the knuckle dragging orcs,and costing the Sun a packet. Lets hope that you and Rangers Tax Case can make a fortune out of your respective books. Then lets have some work done on the newco, as some serious guys/gals on the bhoys side seem to be suggesting that newco is unsustainable and heading for liquidation, I hope and pray that that is so. H.H.G.B.N.L.
September 4, 2012 at 3:17 pm
geegsy67
phil..your a legend..i never thought in my life time that something this good would be achievable..im defo buying your book and i dont read books..first book and i will treasure this with glee..keep digging doon to the last root tug tug away at these cowards the celtic family are with you all the way..YNWA .EVER.
September 4, 2012 at 3:06 pm
Garibaldi
I think you will agree Phil, it’s interesting that The Sun are quite happy to explain their freedom of the press logic when it comes to printing photo’s of a member of the Royal Family that were deemed ‘scandelous’ but decide their bottle will crash if they serialise your book. I don’t care as I’ll be buying a copy to read about the truth.
September 4, 2012 at 2:53 pm
Craig D
Ordered and looking forward to the 9th. Very tempted to buy the Kindle edition and get it on the 8th. However, for me, Kindle is solely for fiction. The older I get, the fussier I’ve become regarding which books I buy/keep in physical form. This is a book which will remain in my library to be passed on – when I pass on.
Phil – you are fast becoming a modern, living, Celtic legend. Keep up the great work, but far far more importantly, stay safe.
September 4, 2012 at 2:36 pm
Gar
Hail Hail Phil , the truth , I love it , it keeps you sane but most of all it highlights what a sad country Scotland is , lets for a min say you were Campbell Millgovanin , your story would have been in the Sun. The media in Scotland are pathetic , they have ignored the cancer of sectarianism coming from the stands of ibrox to the streets of Govan and beyond, mostly because they are part of it and don’t wish to see an end to it .weak willed excuses for men who threaten to get there way , the spineless Sun of course bowed to the bigoted masses over printing the truth .
Sad , scotland needs guys like phil or it will die at the hands of thick bigots.
September 4, 2012 at 2:25 pm
Jerry Desmond
Hi Phil.
Went to order on Amazon there, and they are looking for £5.48 to post to Ireland. Is this right as the book is now coming in at nearly €20 for us in the South. Not being tight but im a student on a budget and would love to read your book especially now that the Sun has screwed you over.
September 4, 2012 at 2:13 pm
Phil Mac Giolla Bhain
Easons are stocking the book in Ireland
September 4, 2012 at 5:06 pm
cam
Exposed for what you are,,,the stone has been lifted and the bright light shines upon you ,,a wee sleekit cowerin timorous beastie,,,spouting your inflammatory bigotry like a wee wean in a sulk.
Put in your place by the “people”,,,told to get right up the back of the bus and stay there!
Why don’t you and a few of your followers set up a wee stall outside Ibrox and engage in some banter with Dr Struths creations,,,make a change from typing cowardly pish like a total shietbag.
September 4, 2012 at 2:07 pm
Dal
Cam
Your ignorance is appauling and in some way unhinged. Rabid dog’s please find another site that’s more your level.
September 4, 2012 at 6:15 pm
Ben mcginlay
Does your carers know you have stolen their computer. Why don’t you go onto the SFL website and look at the position your tribute team are in ya monkey, that’s actually an insult to primates, sorry
September 4, 2012 at 6:57 pm
bodbhoy
Cam calm down this not apartheid, we live in a free democratic society (of a fashion) . The Orc’s think they can intimidate & people will recede. As you have seen not PHIL, dog with a bone mentality, and there is so much more pain for you and your Sevconian franchised replicant agitators. Pity you didn’t listen to the BAMPOTS & maybe your team would have survived 2012. As for the back of the bus I think you will enjoy many long hours there on your “journey” to every minor D3 team, hopefully culminating in the eventual demise of Sevco 5088.
September 5, 2012 at 12:41 am
The Quiet Observer
No one would deny you the right to author your book about the Rangers saga. I do wonder how you expect to be taken seriously as your ‘Incubator’ blog destroyed your credibility, big time. You can’t have it both ways. Regardless of differing views on Rangers, you went to far, to the point of being extremely puerile.
September 4, 2012 at 1:55 pm
John Reid
8th of Amazon Phil, love your work! I think you should take Mr. Harries out for a beer to celebrate! I also had to laugh at the rampagers standard, he stated the pulling of the book from the sun was going to have a negative effect and laughed at cqn for suggesting it wouldn’t hahaha! You deserve all the success in the world Phil and as many have said, stay safe! We are all Phil Mac!!
September 5, 2012 at 8:50 am
Peter
Good on ye Phil, I salute your indefatigability. (Where have I heard that before?)
The Sun has painted its colours well and truly to the mast, and they appear to be the same colours as Sevco (Scotland).
If the article in the Guardian is true, then The Sun have bowed to threats, from Charles Green’s club no less.
They said they would not be bullied yet it would appear they have done exactly that.
Not a great day for The Sun’s credibility (I suppose when you don’t HAVE any credibility it doesn’t make much difference) but they have probably managed to gain a few extra readers I am sure of that.
Meanwhile, your book sales are heading upwards, The Sun’s reputation is heading downwards and the truth shall be told regardless.
Keep up the good work.
September 4, 2012 at 1:53 pm
carl31
I am deeply disappointed that you got into bed with the Sun in the first place. Consider the title of this thread and see the bigger picture about who are the good guys and who are the bad. Whom would you have been supping with- and not with a long spoon. Come on Phil, better is expected of you.
September 4, 2012 at 1:38 pm
williamofO2
well done Phil. Those who slate you for going to The Sun in the first place have misunderstood your use of that tainted oracle to basically shoot itself in the foot by giving the book much more publicity by its cancelling of the serialisation. The fact remains that the Sevco supporters have run out of sand in which to bury their heads. The shame continues. The real criminals will be exposed and their beloved institution of hatred also and rightly exposed to the full extent. The attempts to slur you on Amazon.com’s readers review page are scandalous in the extreme..even going as far as to name your young daughter among disgusting and vile allegations, which clearly do not merit the justification of their existence by a response. They are truly showing their true colours as they squirm and look around shellshocked at the thought of their horrible little world of vile bigotry and dishonesty collapsing around them. Success my friend the truth is out. Hats of to you Phil.
September 5, 2012 at 3:14 pm
Bigpaul
It is funny how the Sevconians in their rage , manage to clutch a defeat in the midst of their wee victory.
Bully and threaten, as is their way. Only this time it has been the best publicity the book could ever wish for. They really are the thickest group of fans on the planet.
September 4, 2012 at 1:23 pm
Mark Maguire
Phil, I to read the incubator blog but as a victim of sectarian and racist abuse I completely understand where you were coming from, at that time of writing I was being verbally abused on a weekly basis by the angry mob seeking some kind of perverse revenge for their own downfall, they refused to heed your warnings because of your surname and where you live, the truth was there their sectarian culture blinding them they choose to hang on to every msm press release who were feeding them false hope by the bucketfull .
Thanks for your determined work , thanks for writing this book, thanks for raising the famine memorial issue,
As for the haters, we are all Phil Mac Giolla Bhain.
September 4, 2012 at 1:21 pm
S Keenan
The book is now no. 13 on Amazon’s best seller charts! I bet Craig Whyte wished he’d thought of writing it first!
September 4, 2012 at 1:20 pm
Kevin
There is much irony in this.
Had the Sevco fans not reacted in the way they have done, then perhaps the book would have not attracted so much attention.
By the way, at the time of writing this post (04/09/12 at 1.10pm), the book had climbed to the 13th spot on Amazon’s bestsellers list!
September 4, 2012 at 1:14 pm
Follow the Money
Phil, you did throw a satirical low blow with your ‘Incubator’ piece, but as it was plainly directed towards those Ibrox fans whose mindset and attitude remain firmly in the sewer – where else could you aim that just might bring some of them to see sense?
Keep opening eyes and minds.
September 4, 2012 at 1:10 pm
mik67
Is this site being hacked?
September 4, 2012 at 1:09 pm
tom dolan
Ahm in the huff,ma last comment has been in “moderation”forever!!
September 4, 2012 at 1:07 pm
Ben mcginlay
Ditto mate, being put in the rebel without a cause bin.
September 4, 2012 at 5:43 pm
PaulMc
Ah c’mon guys. If you’ve been posting regularly you are bound to occasionally write something that is a bit OTT and so doesn’t get past moderation.
September 4, 2012 at 11:00 pm
Green Star
Even some of their own do not like this :
http://www.therangersstandard.co.uk/index.php/articles/current-affairs/160-phil-mac-giolla-bhain-tarred-with-a-sickening-sectarian-brush
More power to your pen, Phil. Excuse my familiarity. I do not know you, but I admire your courage.
I hope you can truly take to task the reprobate who penned the linked article and seems to have been instrumental in organising the campaign to intimidate ‘the sun’.
I wish you luck (you’ll hardly need that now!) with your book and I hope it sells like pies at a game!
September 4, 2012 at 1:06 pm
PaulMc
The author of that article makes these sort of attacks on Phil and others on a regular basis. He offers no credible evidence to support his accusations, he merely continues making lists of perceived “Enemies”, then goes on to make more attacks.
What is laughable is the veneer of respectability he wears when invited on to tv to bemoan his team’s situation, yet online he is (from observation) extremely offensive and seemingly unable to debate like a rational, logical human being.
September 4, 2012 at 11:09 pm
TheBlackKnight
“No one who knows me would recognise the characterisation of Phil Mac Giolla Bhain that appeared in the Sun’s editorial, but that is a job for another day”
Indeed Phil. Indeed!
More over, a bigger “job for another day”, may be the misplaced characterisation that those who do not know you or perhaps had never even considered your character before, may now have……
September 4, 2012 at 1:05 pm
Mrhappy
It kinda validates the whole writing of the book phil! The msm pandering to their main demographic, the demonic hoardes! As alanis morrisette once said ‘isn’t it ironic? Don’t you think!’
September 4, 2012 at 1:04 pm
262 KubN
“We will not give into terrorism”. History still repeating itself, this time in reverse. Sales of your book should be boosted in Liverpool where so many people still refuse to buy this disgusting rag. Probably best to distance yourself from it.
September 4, 2012 at 1:04 pm
miki67
Oops. Many apologies. My posts seem to be coming out of moderation and now I feel really embarassed.
Should be proof I’m not one of the unmentionables then………will be going to my local library soon and making a request fior the book. It needs to be publicly recorded as widly as possible.
September 4, 2012 at 1:02 pm
Been there...
The irony here is that the reaction to the incubator piece is EXACTLY what the piece predicted. Life imitating art I believe it’s called…
Well done Phil for being brave enough to poke your head up and say what’s needed to be said for a very long time. The Rangers fans think that the SFA have it in for them, the very same SFA that allowed them to have an anti-catholic policy for a hundred years. The same SFA that could have outlawed that policy at any time in that 100 years but did nothing.
An uneducated bear can be a very dangerous thing…
September 4, 2012 at 12:53 pm
Dhougal
Brill Phil well done ,They dont like it upem.Did the Sun not realise the Celtic fan customers would now boycot their paper ,silly,stupid ,idiotic editor !! .Might be time to dig into his past ? …….after all birds of a feather………..YNWA WE ARE FAMILY !!!!
September 4, 2012 at 12:53 pm
Brenda
Be proud, can’t wait to read the book ……. Fact rather than the fiction the msm try to feed us day in day out take care and always remember our support for you and the truth is constant
September 4, 2012 at 12:52 pm
redversbodkin
congrats on the book phil, by the way, who is playing you in the up coming movie, absolutely BLOCKBUSTER STUFF
September 4, 2012 at 12:52 pm
Pauloantony
Ordered
September 4, 2012 at 12:51 pm
Paul
Phil,
I’m looking forward to receiving my copy of the book as well. I’ve just sent the Guardian story to several of my colleagues – we all work in London – and there is amazement that this is the behaviour in Scotland 2012. I for one am not amazed at all unfortunately.
Best wishes to you and yours. Hail Hail!
September 4, 2012 at 12:50 pm
Auldheid
The truth? You can’t handle the truth¨ a great line from the movie A Few Good Men.
Ironically that title could almost apply to the msm except it would be No Good Men. The Few standing on the truth side, so few you can name them Phil, Alex, Mark…….
September 4, 2012 at 12:45 pm
miki67
Go on go on go on go on…..just tell me. How have I offended you? I need to know. Honest.
September 4, 2012 at 12:43 pm
Phil Mac Giolla Bhain
No, not at all.
However,consider what you want approved.
This is not a libel free zone.
September 4, 2012 at 5:03 pm
Eddie Sikora
Everyone who has bought the book, please buy another copy as a gift for a friend and get this to No.1 where it belongs.
September 4, 2012 at 12:40 pm
paddybhoy
Agree let’s get this to no 1 on Amazon…Have let CelticMinded/facebook know…let’s get this done!
September 4, 2012 at 4:31 pm
Green Star
In what way have I offended you?
September 4, 2012 at 12:40 pm
Mac
A book that no Scottish journalist could ever write.
September 4, 2012 at 12:29 pm
Chris W
These are the reasons that MSM like the Sun are in there death throws.
Judging by some of the vile stuff printed at the bottom of Paul’s blog you’re having a bit of a Salman Rushdie moment. The efigies will be on fire after the book release.
Joking aside i’m looking forward to reading your book and glad you are taking some comfort that there are a lot of people out there see the truth and for that YNWA.
September 4, 2012 at 12:29 pm
RetroScot
It does not surprise me one bit that The Sun are willing to do a handbrake turn with outraged The Rangers fans and Media House on the sat-nav. The Circulation Manager is more important than the Editor, and that is that.
As someone who is owed money by Rangers, I have very carefully documented the coverage of mainstream papers through the administration process, with particular focus on the terms used to describe the new club.
The results are quite startling. What is now deemed “the new incarnation”, only a month or so ago was “the new club”. The Sun is a regular offender in this important shift.
I hope readers here will keep a careful eye on this and remind those who like their lamb a certain way what was said at the time. 65 juicy examples are here: http://www.itsanewclub.blogspot.co.uk
Many thanks!
September 4, 2012 at 12:27 pm
whale oil beef hooked
Can’t wait for the book to arrive Phil, it’ll be a number 1 before you know it.
Even now, the Sun and it’s raging readers are part of the story. Not that they realise it of course!
September 4, 2012 at 12:21 pm
PaulMcG
I am glad that you are aware of the support that exists for you. The quotes from the fan forum in Paul McConville’s article are disturbing to say the least. It is unbelievable really that people would feel ok about sharing those thoughts in a public space.
You are a brave man for putting your head above the parapet and you should be very proud of what you have achieved.
September 4, 2012 at 12:16 pm
Neil
scary that they even think them in the first place! sends a shiver up my spine.
September 4, 2012 at 1:59 pm
yogibhoy
hi phil ,
just read “the incubator”. what were you drinking when you wrote that ? talk about labouring the point ? we all know who we’re dealing with and don’t, for a second ,ignore the fact that we’ve got “knuckle draggers ” in our midst too .
it’s a shame that blog is resulting in so much grief , as it was far from your best work .
good luck with the book . “the facts ma’am , just the facts ”
hail , hail.
September 4, 2012 at 12:14 pm
Andrew
Looking forward to reading the book when it finally arrives.
Over the last few years we have all lived and breathed this ongoing saga. Disbelief through to realisation.
No one can deny the truth.
A story they tried to hide and would still like to think that they can influence.
Although I should know better I was actually truly shocked with the Sun’s decision to drop the book.
Many wont be shocked by my (and I suspect many more readers) decision to drop the Sun.
Well done Phil. The truth will always out.
September 4, 2012 at 12:13 pm
voguepunter
Scotland does irony so well,bigotry sectarianism,
we love it ,but only if it’s coming from the one
quarter .
A morally corrupt and skint support ,still trying to run
the show .
Hell mend them and keep sticking it to them Phil.
Good luck on your book sales ,promise to buy a copy.
September 4, 2012 at 12:13 pm
John O'Neill
Well said Phil.
In so much of what you write I am reminded of the following:
“Journalism is printing what someone else does not want printed: everything else is public relations.” George Orwell.
The hysteria from some quarters these past couple of weeks is a tangible and ironic vindication of your work.
In common with thousands of others I’m looking forward to seeing the amazon delivery plop through my letterbox in the next few days.
I equally look forward to ‘Downfall’ receiving the acclaim of critics and prize judges over the next few weeks and months.
September 4, 2012 at 12:08 pm
Nevr going to die
People just can’t stop talking about Rangers.
September 4, 2012 at 12:07 pm
Neil
Rangers are dead…lo longer exist, its the “The Rangers”!!
September 4, 2012 at 2:01 pm
Hurricane67
“never going to die”people can,t stop talking about Rangers! funny, IT,s the same wie Jack the Ripper and Hitler!
September 4, 2012 at 3:08 pm
Ben mcginlay
What ? !!!!!!!!
September 4, 2012 at 3:29 pm
PaulMc
Where justice is sought it becomes a hot topic.
September 4, 2012 at 10:51 pm
timabhouy
In a Jack nicolson type of voice
” The truth you cant handle the truth “
September 4, 2012 at 12:06 pm
Andy
Just ordered it on Amazon. It wasn’t my intention to buy it as I still think the story is only about half done. But, come on people – order as many copies as you can and get it up the best seller lists!!! I promise I will buy the sequel too! What a cop out by a newspaper – cowards!
September 4, 2012 at 12:04 pm
jockybhoy
The problem with “the internet” is once stuff is written it just sits there. The Incubator blog entry was well-said at the time, with all the ludicrous stories flying about, with the mobilisation of fans of What Was Rangers seeking to intimidate and harangue in order to ge the result they wanted. A product of its time, now, in isolation, it does look a bit OTT IMO. That said, it doesn’t excuse the ridiculous, cowardly volte-face of what should be one of the leading opinion-formers in the country, the Scottish Sun newspaper. Part of News International, one of the most influential media owners on the planet.
Whilst much credit goes to the anonymous bloggers like RTC and to those running the CQN and Scottish law thoughts, Phil IMO you deserve special praise as you put your name forward, as a professional journalist, and put your reputation on the line.
You (and they) were on the money but many people coming across this story will not know of the various campaigns, abuse and even cyber attacks against this blog by fans of The Renegers.
These “People” see conspiracy at every turn. My God they even state that the 16% of Scottish population that claim to be Catholic have somehow waged a campaign that has lain low what was famously described as Scotland’s second biggest institution, rather than accpet one iota of responsibility for what has happened.
In the meantime there have been bombs, bullets, physical assaults all directed at Celtic related targets and yet they are the ones claiming they are the target? You really couldn’t make this up.
Anyway, my book is on order. Am looking forward to receiving it.
September 4, 2012 at 2:02 pm
Laughing Tim
Got to be the best secret Santa present ever, get it ordered.
September 4, 2012 at 12:01 pm
Bisto
Can,t beat a bit of free publicity! well done sevco fans.
September 4, 2012 at 12:01 pm
Jim McGuigan
The book will do the talking. It will be bought by all with an interest in Scottish football. Those that saw it coming and those that ignored the warnings and put their heads in the sand but now secretly want to look through the debris of the train wreck that was Rangers FC.
There’s more to come as well.
September 4, 2012 at 11:53 am
john
Like they always seem to do they do more damage to themselves and their club. They are so caught up in tribalism that they fail to see the branch to grab….
If it were my club and seeing it crumble in front of me with little MSM detailed information I would want to read the story…with all their negative thoughts towards your goodself commonsense would suggest reading the serialisation in the paper is better than buying your book (paying you royalties)… but then again I just used that word commonsense..
Good luck with the book
J
September 4, 2012 at 11:52 am
Ian N
The are none so deaf as those who don’t want to hear. You should feel proud of your efforts, and those who value the truth certainly appreciate what you’ve done. It must be painful for the Loyal fans to hear this truth, we should all appreciate that, but the efforts to blacken, threaten, and bully are beyond the reason of decent people. That says it all really; a sizeable and vocal number of their support are not decent. I think we all knew that and this is another example, albeit one no-one needed. If there is a consolation (and I wouldn’t blame you for not feeling as if there is one) it is that those who don’t understand their own history and failings are doomed to repeat them. Gullible fools.
September 4, 2012 at 11:51 am
Mea Culpa
I haven’t bought your book yet but I plan to get a copy when I visit Scotland in December.
It is a sad reflection of the club in question and all their followers that you are being held as responsible for their demise.
You have had great courage to stand up for TRUTH and that is what hurts these narrow minded bullies. Their biggest issue is that the person who is most to blame for their demise is the ultimate hero, Sir David. They can’t handle the fact that he has ridden on the wave of their adoration, all the while stripping away the very foundations of the club.
I congratulate you on your courage to see it through. Courage which is almost totally absent in the MSM in Scotland.
September 4, 2012 at 11:51 am
Phil Mac Giolla Bhain
It is available on Amazon to pre-order now.
September 4, 2012 at 11:58 am
ricky erln01
don’t let the bastards grind you down phil .the truth is all that matters wether the orcs like it or not guy’s like you tell the truth so keep doing just that.
when is the book out for sale and will it be available for the kindle
September 4, 2012 at 11:50 am
Neillybhoy
Phil,
If it wasn’t for you would the truth ever have been heard? Ignore the bigots and stay strong.
September 4, 2012 at 11:48 am
Greenjedi
Phil and every sensible person – I want the truth!
The Sun – You can’t handle the truth!!!!
September 4, 2012 at 11:46 am
Rod
Get accustomed to the fame that will come with this book, as when the media realise that there is no option but to address the findings and you will be asked to justify yourself on the telly, most probably.
I want mine in hardback version.
Well done you.
September 4, 2012 at 11:44 am
paddybhoy
Have ordered my copy of the book from HMV a few weeks ago…When is the official release date Mate?
September 4, 2012 at 11:43 am
Phil Mac Giolla Bhain
End of this week
September 4, 2012 at 11:57 am
Mr G.
Your book deserves to be at no.1, people may only buy it to see what all the noise was about, but true fans of both clubs will understand just were your coming from. This setback from the sun will lead to a dramatic fall in sales for them, though i guess we wont really find that out as it wont be admitted. Keep up your good work, many out there enjoy it and look forward to more.
September 4, 2012 at 11:41 am
Peter
It’s simple Phil…. The truth hurts. The bastards can’t handle it. Never stop mate YNWA
September 4, 2012 at 11:40 am
Brian
Gaun yersel Phil….. skint but buying it today.. point of principal if you like!
September 4, 2012 at 11:39 am
paddybhoy
You have our full support always Phil…You’ll Never Walk Alone!
‘Keep Digging Away Mate’
Paddybhoy
September 4, 2012 at 11:38 am
alan ryan
Good man Phil. We’re all in this together !!
September 4, 2012 at 11:38 am
john
lol
September 4, 2012 at 11:37 am
Thomas Payne
We should not tolerate bullying, threats and intimidation of the press. We now have Sevco fans dictating what the Scottish public are allowed to read. The incubator blog was quite clearly an exagerated, absurd satirical parody which contained no bigotry, no racism, no sectarianism, no incitement…….to use that as an excuse is just weak from Murdoch’s rag.
Every non-Sevco fan in the country is sickened by the Sun’s cowardice but….look on the brightside…..your book’s launch is now anticipated, pre-sales are UP and the Forces of Dignity are being laughed at up and down the country AGAIN.
The wider issue now….is should Celtic fans continue to display tolerance toward the Sun’s continual printing of a column which is written by a certain ex-goalkeeper with open and expressed loyalist paramilitary ties. Ties to a prescribed terrorist organisation…..well I will leave that one to the masses.
Keep the Faith, Phil. We are ALL behind you.
September 4, 2012 at 11:36 am
Kenny McCaffrey
Good on you Phil – keep at the truth, we all know you will. You’re an inspiration, and your ancestors (and mine) would be deeply proud of you – not to mention your descendants…
Glad the Sun helped shift more copies – as if they were needed. But I agree, biggest audience possible (already thinking of Chrissie pressies for certain acquainantances!).
By the way, next time you do an Incubator type piece, just sign it “Frankie Boyle” and I’m sure it won’t be a problem for the Sun!
September 4, 2012 at 11:34 am