'Disappointed' Rangers issue statement on Celtic ticketing verdict as decision reached on Old Firm clash
Ibrox club to accept allocation as Union Bears ban stands
Rangers have expressed “deep disappointment” at the Scottish Professional Football League’s decision to accept what they call an “ultimatum” from Celtic on Old Firm tickets - but confirmed that they will take up the allocation made available to them.
An SPFL sub-committee decided that to uphold Celtic’s stance that The Union Bears, a prominent Rangers fan group, should not be present at next Sunday’s final Old Firm game of the season at Celtic Park.
Celtic’s position comes in the wake of a Scottish Cup derby between the two teams in March, which was marred by crowd trouble after fans entered the pitch at Ibrox following Celtic’s penalty shoot-out victory.
The matter was referred to the SPFL and they judged that The Union Bears should not be present. The fan group responded on Saturday to accept the decision while calling it an attack on “fan culture” and later in the day, Rangers issued a statement making their feelings known.
“We are deeply disappointed with the SPFL’s decision to accept the ultimatum placed upon our ticket allocation for the game on 10 May,” it read.
“It sets a concerning precedent with potentially lasting consequences for the league and match-going fans, cutting across the spirit of the competition and disregarding the established agreement on away allocations between clubs.
“In light of the SPFL’s decision, the Union Bears have volunteered that they do not wish to be included within the club’s ticket allocation for this fixture.
“Our club, our supporters and the reputation of Rangers will continue to be defended robustly while the Scottish FA’s independent process regarding the events on 8 March runs its course.
“This is a defining match at a crucial stage of the season, and it is important that Rangers supporters are present to back their team. We will therefore take up the allocation available to us.
“Our focus now turns to the matches ahead, on the field and off it, working with all relevant stakeholders to ensure they are delivered safely, fairly and professionally.”
Rangers are expected to have approximately 2,200 fans inside Celtic Park - but briefs will not be made available to The Union Bears.
Earlier in the day, The Union Bears’ statement read: “The Union Bears strongly condemn the decision to ban the group from the upcoming Old Firm fixture.
“We believe this decision represents a direct attack on fan culture and sets a dangerous precedent, not only at Rangers, but across Scottish football as a whole.
“Following this ruling, we have been in dialogue with Rangers and have urged the club to accept the conditions required to ensure a full allocation, as it is essential that a fully unified Rangers support is present at the fixture.
“Yesterday’s decision reflects a fear from clubs and authorities, a fear of the positive impact of the Rangers support.
“We must ensure that unwavering backing for the team from the stands continues.”
Rangers are currently third in the league, four points behind leaders Hearts, who they face on Monday evening.
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