Credit:Imago

Carla Devine

Wed 7 May 2025 8:30, UK

Rangers took a point from Scottish Premiership champions Celtic on Sunday, but off-the-pitch events overshadowed the football.

Cyriel Dessers put the Gers ahead just before half-time, having already seen Nico Raskin’s header ruled out for offside by VAR.

However, Adam Idah equalised with a deflected shot in the second half, meaning the two sides had to settle for a 1-1 draw.

Since the full-time whistle blew, the majority of the conversation has surrounded the actions of supporters after the Union Bears held a tifo that was censored by the BBC and objects were thrown from the stands.

John Swinney blasted for Rangers’ response

As a result of the behaviour that was on display at Ibrox on Sunday (4 May), John Swinney took his opportunity to criticise the events at Rangers.

The Scottish First Minister made it clear that he felt the scenes on display at Ibrox were unacceptable, although put the ball firmly in the clubs’ court, suggesting it is an issue that they need to address.

Now, the conversation about Sunday’s events is continuing as Swinney has been criticised for his response, too.

Writing in the print edition of the Scottish Daily Mail (7 May, page 68), Calum Crowe hit out at Swinney as he said: “When John Swinney was asked to comment on Sunday’s events at Ibrox, he was presented with the political equivalent of an open goal.

“After another Old Firm match, which had seen shameful off-field incidents, it was a golden opportunity to stick the boot in.

“Swinney had it in his grasp to show strong leadership and to warn of government intervention if Scotland’s clubs and governing bodies can’t get their act together.

“And yet, in keeping with much of his efforts as First Minister, he failed miserably. Swinney’s words were weak and vacuous. Essentially, batting the issue back to clubs and the police, he passed the buck.

“Nicola Sturgeon and Humza Yousaf must have been turning in their political graves. Between them, his predecessors never missed a chance to hammer Scottish football.”

Rangers takeover needs to signal new start

Unfortunately, the behaviour of some supporters dominating the headlines after an Old Firm derby is nothing new, and Swinney’s reaction was fairly passive when it came to addressing the issues.

It has certainly been a frustrating season for the Light Blues, who have had to watch their fierce rivals have all of the success, but if the 49ers Enterprises can complete their takeover, it will surely make the future look brighter.

With a more optimistic future ahead, this must be reflected off the pitch as well and the Gers should be using this as a time to look forward rather than getting bogged down in constant discussions about supporter behaviour.

It may take some time to feel the full effects of the new owners, but in a new period at Ibrox, those in the stands need to throw their efforts into their squad and push the team on to reach the top heights again.