Rangers urged to take ‘draconian’ action against own fans as final warning issued
Rangers boast one of the finest fanbases anywhere in the world, but some fans – in the eyes of the authorities – can sometimes overstep the mark.
Only this month, Neil Lennon lashed out at Rangers fans over their “horrendous” treatment of now former boss Russell Martin.
Rangers fans have been repeatedly warned by the SFA over the use of pyrotechnics, meanwhile, which are banned inside stadiums.
Some continue to ignore that warning, though, leading to yet another statement from the SPFL on Tuesday.
Rangers given suspended sanction for pyro rule breach
The SPFL have issued a suspended reduction of 50 tickets for future away games after supporters used pyrotechnics in the stands in Rangers’ 1-1 draw with Motherwell on the opening weekend.
This, the statement pointed out, was down to a “large-scale, organised and illegal pyrotechnics display” in the away end.
Rangers have been called out for failing to take action against those responsible for the scenes at Fir Park.
Should Rangers be found guilty of another breach between now and 30 June next year, the ticket sanction will be invoked, with the Gers also having to foot the bill for those tickets not sold.
Responding to the latest statement from the SPFL, former FIFA official Keith Hackett believes it can be considered a final warning as he called on the Bears to seriously clamp down on those responsible.
“The latest sanction by the Scottish FA is a final notice to Rangers and their fans to stop using pyrotechnics at their games,” he exclusively told Ibrox News.
“While this is not easy to control, Rangers must explore every avenue to stop these dangerous PTs entering the stadium.
“This includes setting up the appropriate body searches at the entrance gates, then ensuring that the video surveillance equipment is trained onto the major offending areas of the stadium.
“This should enable them to detect the culprits and their seat number. They can then withdraw the season tickets from fans responsible which, together with a draconian stadium ban, should produce a positive impact.
“Let’s hope they succeed and avoid a ticket ban, which is on the horizon.”
How much would Rangers be set back financially if SPFL ticket ban invoked?
Should the 50 tickets be cut, at an average cost of around £30, that is £1,500 Rangers will have to cough up.
That is hardly a large sum, of course, but it is beside the point. Those 50 tickets should be going to fans who want to be at the game.
The whole debate around pyrotechnics is now rather tiresome, but the bottom line is that they are not allowed inside grounds.
Whether or not this message will be heard loud and clear remains to be seen.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @ibroxnews247