Rangers urge fans to celebrate sensibly

in Covid cases in Glasgow, the Scottish Government, Glasgow City Council, Police Scotland and the club held talks with Rangers yesterday urging fans to adhere to the current guidelines and restrictions. ‘Please be mindful of the government guidelines regarding gathering in large numbers,’ read a club statement. ‘It’s a day to enjoy and to celebrate. However, we are cognisant that the battle against Covid-19 is far from over and that the virus is still live. It hasn’t gone away. ‘Please celebrate this historic day for our club in a safe and sensible manner, respecting public safety — adhering to the current government guidelines and restrictions which are still in place. In particular, please be mindful of the guidelines regarding gathering in large numbers.’ Concern is growing about a rising number of Covid cases in Glasgow as the area prepares to move down to level two on Monday. The latest published case rate is 58.3 per 100,000 population — well above a key threshold for easing restrictions. On Wednesday, Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf urged supporters not to break Covid restrictions. Last night, a Scottish Government spokesperson said: ‘While the situation in Glasgow is being closely monitored and work is actively ongoing to stem the spread of Covid, the strong message is that no one — including fans — should congregate anywhere in large numbers. ‘We urge supporters to listen to the messages from their club to stick to the rules, which are there to protect all our safety. It is important there is no complacency and pressure is maintained to ensure we continue to suppress the virus, particularly with concerns about this virulent new strain.’ Chief Superintendent Mark Sutherland, Divisional Commander for Greater Glasgow Division, said: ‘Ahead of the match between Rangers and Aberdeen at Ibrox Stadium on Saturday, 15 May, 2012, an appropriate policing plan is in place to maintain public safety and minimise any disruption to the community.’