Rangers have been hit with a major disciplinary setback after the club was ordered to play their next Scottish Cup home match behind closed doors following fan trouble during last season’s quarter-final against Celtic.
The Scottish FA imposed a £100,000 fine on Rangers after supporters were involved in disturbances during the Old Firm clash. The punishment means Rangers will have to play their next home Scottish Cup fixture without supporters inside the stadium.
The decision represents another unwanted headache for a club already under significant pressure following a difficult start to the new campaign.
Rangers’ recent European disappointment has intensified scrutiny around the team, while manager Derek McInnes is facing growing expectations to turn results around quickly. The disciplinary punishment now adds another issue for the club to deal with away from the pitch.
Playing a major cup fixture without the backing of the Rangers support could be a significant disadvantage, particularly if the match proves important in the club’s season.
The club will now have to ensure that future supporter behaviour does not lead to further sanctions.
For Rangers, the focus must be on responding both on and off the pitch. With pressure already building around Ibrox, another disciplinary incident is the last thing the club needs.