Kaepernick joined by team-mate during protest

Omnisports

September 2, 2016 1:45 AM

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick again sat in protest during the playing of the national anthem and, this time, he was not alone.

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The QB was joined by team-mate Eric Reid, who was kneeling on the sideline as the national anthem was performed at Qualcomm Stadium before the 49ers played the San Diego Chargers.

Kaepernick, who is thought to be fighting for a roster spot under new coach Chip Kelly, then went on to lead the 49ers on a 16-play touchdown drive on the opening series.

He completed six of eight passes for 58 yards and added another 30 yards on two rushes.

The drive ended with a one-yard touchdown run by DuJuan Harris.

The Chargers were promoting the game as a pre-scheduled annual salute to the armed forces.

Up the coast in Oakland, Seahawks cornerback Jeremy Lane sat during the national anthem before Seattle's game against the Raiders.

Kaepernick, who was booed by the Chargers crowd, has vowed to continue to sit during the anthem as a way to protest what he says is the oppression "of black people and people of colour".

He said when there is a "significant change" in how minorities are treated by police, he will stand for the playing of the anthem.

Until then, he will continue his protest with growing support from team-mates and players around the league.

Omnisports

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