SAN FRANCISCO fans turned into the FORTY-WHINERS to blast an “embarrassing” rendition of the national anthem ahead of Thursday Night Football at Seattle Seahawks.
The choice of singer seemed impeccable to some – Seattle’s very own Natalie Grant, a nine-time Grammy nominee.
San Francisco 49ers’ George Kittle celebrates a touchdown in a 36-24 win[/caption]
Army helicopters performed a flyover following the national anthem before Seattle Seahawks took on the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field[/caption]
And her performance even had a spectacular send-off – as army helicopters performed a fly-over at Lumen Field.
But Grant’s efforts were rousing to some, raucous to others.
And as the Christian gospel songstress screeched for the top at the end of her brief act, she was met with an unsporting response online.
“Dear God this is embarrassing,” said one viewer.
Another suggested, possibly with a hint of sarcasm: “Well she hit the high note… ”
But other observers blamed Seattle fans for the loud but not necessarily proud effort and atmosphere as Grant approached her finale.
One wrote: “As in recent seasons, a whole lot of Seattle season-ticket holders sold 100-level seats to San Francisco fans for this one. “
And another argued: “Selling your 49er tickets to 49er fans should revoke your season tickets.”
Unfortunately for Grant’s defenders, Seattle failed to restore honour in the absorbing clash that followed as the 49ers survived a home comeback to win 36-24.
The visitors led 16 at half-time and 23-3 after their first possession of the third quarter.
Seattle revived to trail just 23-17 before the 49ers rediscovered some control.
San Francisco quarterback Brock Purdy defied a shoulder problem as he threw for 255 yards and three touchdowns.
Victory put the 49ers first in NFC West with a 3-3 record.
Seattle have now lost three in a row to also leave them on 3-3 – but San Francisco lead them thanks to a better head -to-head record.
