McPherson sorry for behaviour in women’s Old Firm derby clash
RANGERS Women’s coach Craig McPherson has offered a ‘full and unreserved’ apology after he appeared to headbutt Celtic boss Fran Alonso.
The flashpoint came at the end of last Monday’s Old Firm derby in the SWPL at Broadwood when Alonso’s side scored a dramatic equaliser in the ninth minute of stoppage time to secure a 1-1 draw. TV footage showed McPherson confronting the Celtic manager, who alleged he had been called ‘a little rat’.
The 52-year-old has been cited by the SFA and faces a hearing on April 13, while Police Scotland have also opened an investigation into the incident but it is believed that Alonso does not wish to press charges. McPherson yesterday broke his silence as he expressed his remorse and revealed Alonso had accepted his apology. ‘I would like to offer a full and unreserved apology for my actions at the end of Monday’s Old Firm match at Broadwood,’ said McPherson.
‘I know I have severely let myself, our team and the club down. I hold myself to the highest of standards and have never done anything like this before in a long coaching career, and I know I fell way short of that with my actions.
‘This club is also built on incredibly high standards, and I have already apologised to the board, the football staff and our fantastic group of players who I care about dearly. I would also like to apologise to the Rangers fans as I am aware of what a privilege it is to represent this club in any capacity, and I am sorry that on this occasion I did not uphold the standards this club demands.
‘I also understand how exciting a time it is for the women’s game in Scotland, which I have come to care passionately about, and I apologise for any negativity my actions have brought in our attempts to grow the game.
‘Finally, I am also very grateful to Fran Alonso for accepting my apology in full following our lengthy conversation earlier in the week.
‘I will also apologise to the Scottish FA at my hearing and will, of course, accept in full whatever punishment they deem appropriate.
‘I simply want to apologise today, convey my massive regret and explain how out of character this moment has been for me.’