Rangers open investigation after bottle thrown during Old Firm derby

Rangers have condemned the behaviour of a fan who threw a glass bottle during the Old Firm derby and say they will take action against the supporter.

During the second half of the Old Firm game at Ibrox, which ended in a 1-1 draw, what appeared to be an empty Buckfast bottle was thrown onto the pitch, close to the goal being defended by Celtic keeper Viljami Sinisalo.

Sinisalo was seen removing other items from the turf before Rangers substitute Neraysho Kasanwirjo helped by coming on to the pitch and removing the bottle.

Rangers say an investigation is already under way to identify who threw the bottle and that the club will take “the strongest action” against the individual.

Club officials were also unhappy with a card display from the home support before kick-off that showed an image of former Rangers player and manager Graeme Souness holding a shotgun with a banner beneath reading “Take aim against the rebel scum”.

The display was opposite the section holding the 2100 travelling Celtic fans in what is only the second Old Firm match in recent years to have an away support.

Rangers felt the display, which was organised by fans, was “unacceptable”, “crossed a line” and lacked good judgement.

SNS Group Rangers fans produce a tifo during a William Hill Premiership match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium SNS Group

A Rangers spokesperson said: “Rangers Football Club condemns the actions of the individual who threw a bottle during today’s match. This behaviour has no place at our stadium. Steps have already been taken to identify the person responsible, and the club will take the strongest possible action once their identity is confirmed.

“We also acknowledge that the tifo displayed prior to kick-off crossed a line and was unacceptable. Our approach to supporter displays has always been built on trust, with the responsibility placed on groups to exercise good judgement.

“We will reflect on how these displays are managed and engage with supporter groups to ensure the right balance of trust, responsibility and oversight is maintained moving forward.

“Rangers is proud of its passionate fanbase, and we all share a duty to protect the standards and reputation of our club.”

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