With Rangers fans attending pre-season friendlies in Belfast on Saturday and Blackpool on Tuesday, fans groups issued a joint statement calling on supporters to continue the party atmosphere they created in the final matches of last season, as the team closed in on its 54th league title.
The statement was issued by a working group of Rangers supporters clubs and fans organisations representing the vast majority of Rangers fans and was fully endorsed by Rangers owner, Craig Whyte
The statement said: “The support from our fans during the final games of the season was said by many to be magnificent and created a fantastic atmosphere that was the envy of other clubs. Everyone connected to the Club from the team to the fans were responsible and we want to continue this throughout the coming season.
“Last season there were too many headlines about matters that have nothing to do with football and no-one wants to see a repeat of that.
“We, the Rangers supporters, are continuing to play our part. We are actively tackling fan behaviour issues, engaging with all our fans’ groups and the authorities and we are determined to eradicate all forms of sectarian, political and highly offensive singing at all football grounds throughout Scotland.
“These are matters that affect many clubs and we take issue with those who wish to lay every problem at Rangers door. We are encouraged by the actions of the new Chairman, Mr Whyte, in terms of his appointments such as Gordon Smith and in challenging the media and the football authorities to treat us fairly. When it comes to dealing with offensive behaviour we are looking for a level playing field.
“There is a very positive feeling around the Club as we start a fresh era. Following our call to eliminate the small number of songs and phrases that saw us in trouble with UEFA, we are delighted with the way the support created a party atmosphere during the final few games of last season.
“Most of our supporters know the score now in terms of singing, chanting and add-ons to songs and we are clear in our minds – no Billy Boys, no FTP or references to Fenians.
“We have the opportunity to continue the party through the pre-season campaign with visits to Belfast and Blackpool, places that have embraced us positively over the years. We are sure that all Rangers supporters will bring humour, colour and atmosphere to these matches and adhere to the standard of behaviour that will make us all proud.”
Craig Whyte, the Rangers owner, endorsed the fans’ statement saying: “It is a new era for Rangers and one in which we want to see even more success coming to the Club.
“I congratulate the fans for taking the initiative as we prepare to start the new season and fully support their statement. We are all united in our desire to see the Club do well.”
The statement issued today clearly states our intentions to set a standard of behaviour that will ensure that those that feel the need to aim criticism in our direction will have nothing to take us to task on. There is a responsibility on every supporter to ensure that we maintain our standards. Let's show everyone that we can set the standard.