Rangers chose not to offer a guard of honour to Celtic, their arch-rivals, before their 1-1 draw in the Scottish Premiership clash. The match marked Celtic’s first appearance since securing their 55th league title, equaling Rangers’ record.
Prior to the game, interim Rangers manager Barry Ferguson had stated that no guard of honour would be given, citing historical precedent. This decision was upheld at Ibrox, where Celtic was welcomed onto the pitch by their 2,100 traveling supporters, a rare sight in recent derby history.
However, the post-match focus shifted to the behavior of some home fans, with reports of a glass bottle thrown towards Celtic goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo’s penalty area. Additionally, a controversial banner featuring Graeme Souness holding a shotgun was unfurled, prompting criticism and introspection from the Rangers camp.
Expressing disapproval of the incidents, Rangers issued a statement condemning the bottle-throwing incident and acknowledging the inappropriateness of the displayed banner. The club pledged to identify the responsible individual and take appropriate action while reassessing their approach to fan displays.
On the field, Rangers initially seemed poised for victory as Cyriel Dessers put them ahead in the 44th minute. However, Celtic’s Adam Idah leveled the score in the 57th minute, extending Rangers’ winless streak to six games across all competitions under Ferguson’s stewardship.
The draw highlighted Rangers’ struggles, having secured only four wins in twelve games under Ferguson, with no victories at home since February. The result underscored the competitive nature of the Scottish Premiership and the intensity of the rivalry between Rangers and Celtic, transcending mere footballing competition.
Such contentious encounters between the Glasgow clubs have deep historical roots, reflecting the cultural and social significance of football in Scotland. The fervor and passion exhibited by fans, though often intense and emotive, underscore the enduring appeal and importance of the sport in the region.
As both clubs navigate their respective challenges on and off the pitch, the episode serves as a reminder of the responsibility that comes with supporting a football club. The incidents at Ibrox prompt reflection on the role of fans, clubs, and authorities in upholding standards of behavior and respect within the sport.