SAFETY FIRST
As Covid cases rise, Rangers fans are urged to party at home
RANGERS fans are once again being asked not to gather in large numbers to celebrate their title triumph on Saturday as Covid cases rise in Glasgow.
The team will be presented with the Premiership trophy at Ibrox Stadium after the weekend game with Aberdeen, needing to avoid defeat for an ‘Invincible’ season.
Police Scotland, who launched an investigation after around 100 Rangers fans gathered and set off fireworks outside Livingston’s ground during last night’s win in West Lothian, have already warned fans to avoid a planned march to George Square on trophy day.
And yesterday, Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf urged supporters to consider the health and wellbeing of their loved ones before breaking restrictions — with Covid cases in Glasgow worryingly on the increase.
Mr Yousaf said: ‘I understand Rangers supporters will want to celebrate what will be a huge day for the club — but we are in a crucial and fragile stage in our fight against the virus, with a
new variant and eased restrictions adding to the risks. ‘I strongly urge fans to mark the occasion safely and within the Covid restrictions that are in place to protect the public. The strong message is that no one — including fans — should congregate anywhere in large numbers. ‘I have urged Rangers Football Club to also reinforce the message that fans should not gather and I welcome the constructive approach Rangers have told me they are willing to take, along with Police Scotland and Glasgow City Council’s considerable work for the safe running of the match on Saturday.’ Rangers are expected to address fans today after one supporters group invited fans to march from Ibrox to George Square in Glasgow city centre after Saturday’s final league game. Police said the plan would be against coronavirus regulations. Concern is growing about a rising number of Covid cases in Glasgow as the area prepares to move down to level two. The latest published case rate is 58.3 per 100,000 population — well above a key threshold for easing restrictions. Police also confirmed an investigation will be launched after supporters gathered in breach of Covid regulations at Almondvale, with fireworks being set off during the match. Sergeant Jim Gowling told STV: ‘An investigation is under way after several pyrotechnics were let off during the Livingston v Rangers game. ‘The inquiry will involve officers reviewing extensive CCTV footage to identify those involved in this reckless and dangerous behaviour.’