SPFL Appeal For Help Over Sectarian Songs

Last updated : 24 February 2015 By ed_ScottishFitba

C:WindowsTempphpD053.tmpClubs and the SPFL are looking to the fans for help to stamp out offensive and sectarian chanting at football. A number of songs were heard from sections of the visiting fans during Rangers' Championship game at Raith Rovers last weekend and the governing body insists it will do 'everything in its power' to act against any individual involved. SFA delegate Tom Purdie has said he will include the chanting in his report from Kirkcaldy but the SPFL has already indicated punishing any club whose supporters indulge in such chanting is highly unlikely. Sectarian singing was heard at the Scottish League Cup semi-final between Rangers and Celtic at Hampden earlier this month but the SPFL admitted to being powerless to act claiming 'both clubs took the precautions that were expected ahead of the game and could not be held liable for their fans’ actions'. And it has reiterated that stance following Friday's game at Stark's Park, which Rangers won 2-1.

In a statement, SPFL chief executive Neil Doncaster said: "We hope to have sight of the match delegate report from Friday night's Raith Rovers v Rangers SPFL Championship match within the next 24-48 hours. It remains the SPFL's position that if it can be established that clubs have done everything required in overall management of the event pre-match, during the game and post-match then they have no case to answer. But setting that aside, the vast majority of decent fans will share a strong degree of anger and despair that the good name of Scottish football is once again being dragged through the mud by the distasteful, shameful and selfish actions of a mindless minority who seem hell bent on indulging in outdated and offensive behaviour. I know that clubs, players and many others across the game share this frustration. While we can't comment further until we review the match delegate report, we will work with our clubs and the police to do everything within our powers to act against those involved in such unacceptable conduct and behaviour. However, ultimately, we also need the supporters to play their part to help stamp out such behaviour."