Rangers fan ban means ref Clancy under huge pressure in Old Firm – Michael Beale
Michael Beale has insisted that referee Kevin Clancy will be under huge pressure in the Old Firm clash on Saturday 8 April due to the Rangers fan ban.
An entirely partisan environment awaits at Parkhead with no Rangers fans present at the huge game which will obviously have an impact in Celtic’s favour.
The Rangers boss is justified to express his concerns as to how the feeling from the stands could influence the man in the middle, especially given his track record involving.
Beale was clear on his assessment of the crowd situation that awaits on Saturday, which will add to the focus on Clancy, as featured in the Scottish Sun.
“It impacts it because it’s very hostile when you go,” he said.
“I think the referees are under a huge amount of pressure. Even having just a few fans is better than none, I would say.” You’d always rather some fans, even if it was only a small amount.
“I just think it adds to the flavour of the game and, again, the pressure it puts on the referee if you have a large crowd in favour of one team.”
Pressure.
Having no support at the game is just another obstacle to the significant challenge that Rangers will face.
At the very least, Beale needs to inspire a performance from his players, if not a result. In the context of the rest of the season, Rangers would prefer a win in the Scottish Cup semi-final for obvious reasons but there is so much expectation placed on this latest instalment of the perpetual battle in Glasgow.
This is his third attempt at tasting derby success and if not now, it must follow in the next game otherwise the manager will face serious questions ahead of the new season.
Striking a blow against Celtic now will most likely not harm their title aspirations but it will make things interesting for a couple of weeks at least if Rangers can reduce the deficit to six points. Anything else would effectively end any slim hopes of a title fight going into the split.
A win would also change the complexion ahead of the Hampden date at the end of the month. There is plenty for Rangers to play for, especially without the fans on this occasion.
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