SPFL demand explanation from Rangers after tifo and missiles towards Celtic

Originally posted on The Celtic Star | Last updated May 9, 2025 5:57 PM ET

The SPFL have reportedly written to Rangers demanding an explanation from Rangers after flashpoints in last weekend’s Glasgow Derby. The League have demanded answers as to how a tifo was allowed into the ground after the Union Bears organised the display in the Copeland Road Stand of Ibrox.

The display featured an image of former Rangers manager Graeme Souness holding a gun with a banner saying ‘TAKE AIM AT REBEL SCUM’. The blunt tifo was followed by a number of items being thrown onto the pitch at Celtic goalkeeper Vil Sinisalo. A glass bottle was pictured being removed from the pitch. Both incidents resulted in a post match statement from Rangers, which has been condemned by Rangers supporters on social media – calling for Patrick Stewart to be binned.

Rangers have said that they will review the footage and take action against the culprit, while promising a review into how the inflammatory banner was allowed to be displayed.

Celtic goalie Sinisalo spoke out about the incident, condemning the Rangers support. The Finnish International told the media conference on Friday that he was struck with an item from the Ultras group.

“First of all, I was hit with something in my lower leg. It wasn’t just a bottle, there was lighters, vapes, coins, mugs, all sorts.

“Let’s say that glass bottle hits me or hits someone else, what happens next? What if it hits you in the eye and you can’t play football after that. Those are the questions that we need answers for.”

Sinisalo referenced other incidents at Ibrox whereby Celtic players and members of staff have been targeted by the home supporters.

“It’s not the first time it’s happened. I was there when Arne was hit, [team-mate] Greg [Taylor] has been hit, [former Celtic keeper]Joe Hart’s been hit, staff members have been hit. It’s up to the authorities and the club there. I’m just glad I never got hit because things could be bad if you get hit.”

The message on the tifo will have been why the SPFL want accountability from Rangers as to how this was allowed to be displayed. The majority of Celtic fans within the ground were bemused by the lack of creativity from the Rangers support. Creativity has never been their strong point. The Ultras group missed a glaring opportunity to have a Star Wars themed display, especially given that the game took place on May 4th.

This article first appeared on The Celtic Star and was syndicated with permission.

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