SRU inquiry into sectarian rugby fans in Rome

● Supporters in kilts filmed singing Protestant song before big match

Rugby bosses have launched an investigation after fans were filmed singing a sectarian song before a big match in Rome.

The footage featured three kilted supporters at the Olympic Stadium in the build up to the Six Nations clash with Italy at the weekend.

One was playing the proprotestant The Sash My Father Wore on his bagpipes, while the others sang along at full volume – also shouting “f*** the Pope” between verses.

And it was revealed that two who were singing are members of the Bearsden Rugby Club, near Glasgow.

Furious club secretary Gavin Berry said: “It was brought to our attention that two members were in the stadium singing to a tune often linked to sectarianism.

“There was also a piper, but we are sure he had no connection

0 Fans were filmed singing a sectarian song, inset, before the Six Nations clash with Italy at the weekend to the club and was not travelling with our members.

“We do not condone this behaviour in any way and after hearing about it I contacted the SRU to offer any necessary assistance. Any club members found to have been involved will be subject to disciplinary action, which may be suspension or expulsion.”

Mr Berry added: “We are taking this matter extremely seriously. Over the years, we have considered ourselves to be good ambassadors for Scottish rugby all over the world.

“Many of our members have travelled far and wide to support the national team. I am deeply embarrassed and shocked by what has happened.”

The footage – which showed one of the singers wearing a Bearsden RFC jersey – was posted on Twitter, prompting a spate comments.

The piper and the other singer in the video were wearing Scotland kit.

Ascottishrugbyspokesman confirmed: “We are attempting to identify the people who were filmed at the Olympic Stadium with a view to considering what action to take.”

The Scots edged out Italy with a dramatic last-gasp penalty by Greig Laidlaw – earning a third-place finish in the championship.

More than 8,000 Scotland fans are believed to have made the journey.

After Scotland’s victory over England at Murrayfield last month England’s head coach Eddie Jones was subjected to verbal and physical abuse on a train and at a railway station.

Jones said he no longer felt safe using public transport after the abuse from Scotland fans.

He also criticised jingoistic comments made by Scottish rugby figures which he feels helped to fuel an unsavoury post-match atmosphere.

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