THE question whether fans are entitled to boo an under performing team or get behind them is as old as football itself.

On Saturday Kidderminster Harriers got it in the neck from a section of home supporters when they were booed during the 2-0 loss to Weymouth.

Booing is part and parcel of the game but what was surprising was that after a fitful first half the team were subjected to the fans' displeasure.

Normally a volley of disgruntlement would be kept until the end of the game but some felt compelled to tell the team that they were under performing.

This was a surprising reaction by the fans' because apart from one or two instances this season, they have have watched their team play well at home and win.

A good run can be a burden as much as boon in some respects and after a nine-match unbeaten run it's no surprise that the supporters expect their team to perform every time.

The incident also shows the divide between the fans and players: After the match the players were surprised by the boos, with the frustration vocalised by Andy Ferrell, a firm fans' favourite.

The players expected more patience for a rare out of sorts display from the fans because of the team's general good home form and lofty league position.

However, they soon learned that the supporters who shell out for every home game demand more and will not accept a drop in form.

This is just the nature of the modern game. More than any other sports fan, football supporters live in the moment of the game.

A poor season can be forgotten for a small period by a scrappy victory, while the sweetness of a promising campaign can be soured slightly by a surprise home loss.

It's only when a supporter steps back and examines the course of the season that they can judge how well their team are doing.

Disgruntled fans must be careful of too violently attacking their under performing team. Too much abuse can affect a team's morale and confidence and have a negative effect on their home form.

Still, players must grow thicker skins and understand that fans are entitled to get their opinions across. If a team cannot take a little booing by their own fans on the chin, how are they going to survive the abuse thrown at them at away grounds?

In truth, football would be a cold, sterile beast if fans were banned from booing. It's part of the crazy circus that we all love.