BBC Scotland sports news correspondent Chris McLaughlin reports that huge nets have been installed at Celtic Park and Ibrox in preparation for the upcoming Old Firm match to prevent fans from being hit by projectiles. Both managers have expressed their approval of the return to a semblance of normality surrounding the fixture, leaving it in the hands of the fans come Sunday.
Despite past criticism of the fixture’s atmosphere being labeled as toxic, the majority of Celtic and Rangers fans now humorously admit to missing the intense rivalry over the last couple of years. While there are ongoing concerns related to sectarian singing, the Old Firm match remains as Scottish football’s main draw and a highly captivating spectacle in the football world.
The negotiations to reintroduce away fans to the fixture have been complex and extensive, involving input from the police, clubs, and league officials. Now, with a deal in place where 2,400 Rangers supporters will attend the match, all parties involved will be closely monitoring how the situation unfolds. In light of these developments, both clubs have agreed to put up large nets to protect spectators from potential harm, marking a sobering acknowledgment of past incidents that have marred the event.
While violent confrontations between ultras groups have posed challenges for law enforcement, it’s important to remember that such disturbances are not reflective of the majority of fans attending the match. The vast majority of supporters come to the games to cheer on their teams, experience the thrill of victory, and endure the agony of defeat on the pitch. Despite the rivalry and banter between opposing fans, there is a shared belief among clubs and supporters that the recent progress marks a positive step forward in restoring a semblance of normalcy to the cherished fixture
Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More
