The age-old rivalry between Rangers and Celtic has once again made headlines for all the wrong reasons. This time, it’s not just about the game, but also about the alleged incident that occurred off the pitch. Craig McPherson, a Rangers security officer, has been charged over an alleged headbutt on a Celtic staff member during the recent Old Firm derby. The incident has left many fans shaking their heads and wondering how such violence can still occur in football. As police continue to investigate the matter, the incident has once again brought the intense, and often destructive, rivalry between the two Glasgow clubs into the spotlight.
The Scottish Women’s Premier League (SWPL) game between Glasgow Rangers and Celtic was marred by an incident at the end of the match on Monday, March 27, 2023, as Rangers Women coach Craig McPherson allegedly headbutted Celtic Women boss Fran Alonso. The incident is being investigated by the police, and McPherson has been charged and will face a Scottish FA hearing on April 13, after having breached disciplinary rules.
The Rangers are also conducting an investigation into McPherson’s conduct. Additionally, the SWPL says it is aware of the incident and will make no further comments until the investigations are concluded.
After the match, in which Caitlyn Hayes’ 99th-minute equalizer secured a point for Celtic, Alonso told Sky Sports that McPherson called him “a little rat,” which he found disappointing. Meanwhile, a Celtic spokesperson said that the matter was being investigated, and it would be up to the authorities to decide on appropriate action.
Former midfielder McPherson, 52, joined up with Rangers head coach Malky Thomson in the summer of 2021, and until a final decision is made, he will not be able to participate in the games. The draw between Celtic and Rangers retained them in second and third positions, respectively, in the SWPL league. Glasgow City is presently leading the table, having won eight points, and with nine matches remaining.
In conclusion, the rivalry between Rangers and Celtic is undoubtedly one of the most intense and heated in all of sports. With Craig McPherson now facing charges for an alleged headbutt, it’s clear that tensions can run high both on and off the pitch. While some fans may take this rivalry too far, it’s important to remember that at the end of the day, it’s just a game. Hopefully, incidents like these will become a thing of the past as fans begin to focus on enjoying the sport rather than resorting to violence. As for the police investigation, we can only hope that justice will be served and that incidents like this do not become the norm in the future.
