We've been updating the coverage on the tragic fires in Dalmatia with the latest news thoughout the day and will continue to do so here. In the meantime, here's an uplifting story showing that even the most bitter of enemies can put aside their differences and unite when faced with a greater nemesis.
Torcida and the Bad Blue Boys have both published a call to arms earlier today, inviting all their members to join the fight against the terrible fires that are currently ravaging Split and the surrounding area.
Torcida was first to react, reaching out to its followers on Facebook:
"Today's situation calls for a quick reaction and for all the help we could give to the firemen that are out in the field. We're calling all Torcida members to come to our rallying point in front of the Croatian Defense Forces monument on ST-3 at 20:30. We'll get further instructions from a firefighting commander. Wear long trousers, long-sleeved shirts and bring scarves to cover your faces. This call is not an appeal but a command! Torcida Split"
Unofficial sources say around 200 people gathered at the meeting point, reported RTL. Everyone who wasn't wearing long sleeves was sent back home to avoid possible burns.
After the meeting with the firefighting commander, it was decided Torcida was not yet needed on the site, but that they will be called for help in case the situation calls for more manpower.
The Bad Blue Boys followed with a heartwarming reminder that even the greatest rivals can unite to help when Croatia's safety is at stake. The Facebook status at Nogometne vijesti (Football News) reads as follows:
"BBB & Torcida: Brothers standing together, Croats standing together
The Bad Blue Boys are coming to Split to help Torcida in putting out the fires that are ravaging Dalmatia... other supporter groups are being mentioned as well. These two rivals united to help once before, after the floods in Slavonija! CROATIA comes first!
We're stronger together!"
A beacon of hope after this horrible day. Bravo, boys!
