Because the point was that while the Timbers/Sounders provide some examples that are fun to unpack, the phenomenon is broader than that. I’d suggest all rivalries anywhere in the world have some things that are truly local and unique, while simultaneously having somethings that are universal and shared. For me the balance between those is what makes the culture of the game so great. I was trying to explore one piece of that in this article just to offer some perspective–but I agree with some of the comments suggesting other factors are involved as well (the identity investment, the ‘pantomime’ that is always part of human behavior, etc.).

And to any fans who might feel judged by my analysis, I’ll just re-emphasize something I wrote in the piece: “the edginess and intensity of passionate fan allegiance is often a crucial element of what makes a great match so much fun for everyone involved.” I do tend to think there are some lines that shouldn’t be crossed, but I also value how the hardcores create glorious emotion around the game that touches even those of us who over-rely on intellectualization as a defense mechanism. It’s all appreciated.

http://bit.ly/asOZqC

It may have been in hibernation for a while, but it’s been there all along.

One detail though: You wrote about how some Timbers supporters put up the “Keller do the Cobain” banner despite Keller has strong ties to Portland and the Timbers. You miss the mark there completely. They put up that banner BECAUSE Keller has these strong ties. Going to the rival team is the ultimate sin in supporter culture.