I felt their protests and marches were a great symbol of organisation and togetherness, but I couldn't see were they would make any mark against our owners and their wicked ways.
I have never questioned the fans opinion of the owners in regards to their financial undertakings. I still stand by the argument against the "Spade in the ground" lie as the world financial crisis made any construction impossible to forecast and cost for. I don't think any owners would have started construction during this time and considering how much debt there now is on the club, I'm very thankful that a half-built £300m shell of a stadium isn't now sitting dormant in Stanley Park.
However recent events have opened my eyes to the true meaning behind the supporters groups.
Instead of forceful images of marches and progression with pickets and banners which I have never felt a personal connection with, I saw a heartbreaking internal and external shield being wrapped around the club. I described the events of the sit-in to my wife, of how 10,000 people sat in the stadium like a comfort blanket of passion, protection and an almost motherly instinct to protect what was theirs. It brought a tear to my eye, like seeing a mortally wounded tigress wrapped around her cubs trying to save them to the very end. It was made more heart-wrenching when I spoke of Carragher and Gerrard applauding the effort - approval from within.
The lump in my throat grew.
I then progressed to the story of how a man in America spotted one of our owners entering a bank, and then I described the actions taken to get that message to thousands of fans worldwide. Then the action of those who fired revealing and passionate words towards these banks to somehow end the chances of re-financing.
The tear began to run and the lump became a pain.
I realise that this in no way comes close to a proper apology, but it's the best I can offer. Thank you to those who stayed and protected our club. Thank you to those who were involved in preventing any chance of a bank deciding to further ruin our club. Thank you to everyone who has not given up on the protection of our club.
You have my respect, and my sincere apologies.