Police Intervene to Separate Old Firm Fans on Pitch
Rangers Football Club has issued a statement unequivocally condemning the "unacceptable" disorder involving fans during Sunday's Old Firm Scottish Cup quarter-final against Celtic at Ibrox. The club has expressed support for the Scottish Football Association's (SFA) decision to launch an independent review into the incidents that occurred during and after the match.
The disorder resulted in injuries to both supporters and police officers, with several arrests made following clashes on the pitch subsequent to Celtic's victory in a penalty shoot-out. The SFA has emphasized that the review aims to "ensure no repeat" of the events that have "tarnished the image and reputation of the game." The governing body's compliance officer is currently collecting evidence related to the match, and any alleged breaches will be addressed according to the judicial panel protocol.
As of now, Celtic Football Club has not released a statement regarding the crowd disturbances.
Police and Authorities Respond to Fan Disorder
Police leadership has publicly criticized both Celtic and Rangers in the wake of the disorder. Nine individuals have been arrested in connection with the fan-related disturbances during the Rangers versus Celtic match.
Rangers Call for Thorough Independent Review
Rangers have stated that all involved parties must be willing to have their actions and decisions subjected to rigorous scrutiny. The club has called for the review to be "thorough and wide-ranging," encompassing the broader context of the match, including initial ticket allocation decisions and the incidents that occurred post-match.
"The disorder that occurred on Sunday was unacceptable and we condemn it unequivocally. Safety must always come first in football, for supporters, players and everyone working in and around the game."
"There are now a number of serious issues which require proper examination. For that reason, we agree that there should be a fully independent review into the events surrounding the match."
Rangers have pledged to represent the club and their supporters robustly while also committing to taking action against individuals identified and convicted of wrongdoing. This may include the withdrawal of ticketing privileges and the imposition of stadium bans.
Condemnation of Offensive Graffiti Related to Ibrox Disaster
The club has also expressed profound dismay upon discovering graffiti that mocked the Ibrox disaster, a tragic event in January 1971 that claimed the lives of 66 supporters.
"To desecrate their memory is vile. It is cowardly. It is shameful. This is not football rivalry and it is not banter. It is the abuse of a tragedy that claimed 66 lives."
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