Rangers FC, prolific in the area of club statements since their new board took control, released another statement earlier today saying that their supporters were subject to "a sickening and shameful display of outright sectarian hatred" on Saturday afternoon. The statement name-checked the fans grouping 'Club 1872', saying it would be contacting them "urgently".
It was the supporters club who had written to the Rangers board asking that Celtic fans be banned from Ibrox, and accusing the Celtic supporters' grouping 'The Green Brigade' of anti-semitism, sectarianism and support for terrorist organisations.
They reference a disturbing incident during the game when some Celtic fans hung effigies from the upper tier of the Stand with nooses around their necks. One of the dummies wore a Rangers scarf and one wore an Orange sash. Saturday's match fell on World Suicide Prevention Day.
The Celtic board haven't been as keen on a statement lately. But they were moved to respond to the Rangers statement, albeit to say that they have no intention of being dragged into a tit for tat.
The club also reasserted that Saturday was a great day for the club, a game attempt to remind the world that they beat Rangers 5-1 at the weekend.
Celtic will not become involved in a tit for tat spat regarding all events at Celtic Park on Saturday. We will deal with all issues arising in a proper and professional manner in line with our well established policies. Saturday was a fantastic event for the club and our fans worldwide. We thank the overwhelming majority of our supporters for the positive backing they gave to the team and for making this such a great occasion.
The use of the phrase of "thank the overwhelming majority" implies they may look to take action against the minority who hung effigies and unveiled banners such as "Know Your Place Hun Scum".
Rangers supporters were highly critical of the Celtic statement.
