Ecstatic Rangers fans ignore coronavirus advice as they head to Ibrox and George Square to celebrate league victory

Hundreds of Rangers fans were congregating on Ibrox and George Square this afternoon after their team won the league for the first time in a decade.

Ecstatic fans defied government advice on covid crowds to head towards the Glasgow stadium and main city centre square.

Rangers won their first title in ten years without kicking a ball as rivals Celtic failed to beat Dundee United at Tannadice with a 0-0 result.

Several jubilant fans took to social media to say they were on route to Ibrox to celebrate spoiling Celtic’s quest for an unprecedented ten league victories in a row.

Within minutes of the final whistle hundreds had arrived at the ground, many appearing to ignore rules on facial coverings and social distancing and letting of flares as they revelled in the result.

Some fans said they were hiring taxis from as far afield as Edinburgh to join the party.

A large crowd was also being closely monitored by police as it swelled in George Square.

Rangers fans celebrate outside of the Ibrox Stadium after Rangers win the Scottish Premiership title. Picture date: Sunday March 7, 2021.

Following today’s result police in Glasgow re-issued a plea from fans to stay away from the ground.

In a Facebook post Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland, Divisional Commander for Greater Glasgow Division, said: “We are aware of proposed gatherings in both George Square and outside Ibrox stadium on Sunday, 7 March, 2021.

“In line with current Scottish Government Coronavirus guidelines, all gatherings are currently prohibited and we would urge members of the public to comply with these restrictions.

"An appropriate policing response is in place and officers are already using the approach of engaging, explaining and encouraging compliance with the restrictions.

Rangers fans set off smoke bombs as they gather outside the Ibrox Stadium, to celebrate their team winning the Scottish Premiership title on March 07, 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)

“Our response will be measured and appropriate. We understand fans want to celebrate but they must do so safely and lawfully. We continue to ask everyone to do the right thing to stop the spread of the virus.”

Justice Minister Humza Yousaf took to Twitter to post: “Congratulations to @RangersFC - churlish not to recognise how well they have played this season

I understand Rangers fans will be desperate to celebrate but please remember you must stay at home. No mass gatherings are allowed. We cannot risk any further spread of the virus.”Celtic played Dundee United at Tannadice Park on Sunday, and 55 minutes into the match, a flare was thrown onto the pitch, presumed to be a reference to the fact today’s victory marks a 55th title for the Ibrox club.

Rangers fans celebrate outside of the Ibrox Stadium after Rangers win the Scottish Premiership title. Picture date: Sunday March 7, 2021.

Rangers fans also taunted their rivals by hiring a plane to fly over United’s stadium with a banner which read ‘Can you see us now? #55 titles.’

Yesterday (Saturday) scores of fans drew criticisim for amassing at the ground in a similar fashion after Rangers set up their league victory with a 3-0 win over St Mirren.

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