McCoist calls for calm as Celtic seek Ibrox title win

Saturday 24 March 2012

Rangers manager Ally McCoist has called for calm ahead of tomorrow's Old Firm match that could see Celtic clinch the Scottish Premier League title at Ibrox.

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Hugh MacDonald and VICTORIA WELDON

McCoist, who has played a pivotal role during the club's administration, said he, along with the supporters, players and back-room staff of both Rangers and Celtic, had a responsibility to "conduct ourselves in the right way".

Neil Lennon's team are currently 21 points ahead of their rivals, who were deducted 10 points by the SPL after going into administration in February.Both managers were visited at their training grounds by senior police officers, who stressed the importance of respect.It is the first Old Firm game since police were given new powers to curb sectarian abuse under the Offensive Behaviour at Football and Threatening Communications Act, which was introduced on March 1.A number of fans have already been fined and given football banning orders.McCoist said: "The importance of the game is on every individual, be it supporter, player, coach or manager. We all have to understand there is a responsibility on us all to conduct ourselves in the right way. That is very, very important to me as manager of the club."The importance of the fixture can not and will not be under- estimated by anybody."Our fans have showed wonderful spirit and support since the problems have arisen at the club. I would urge them to continue to do that on Sunday in the right manner.''McCoist and Lennon clashed after a Scottish Cup tie last year that saw three Rangers players sent off.Match commander, Chief Superintendent Andy Bates of Strathclyde Police, said tomorrow's 51,000 capacity fixture will be "business as usual." He added McCoist and Lennon "were both absolutely aware of their responsibilities."I'm quite content they know exactly what is expected of them at the Old Firm game on Sunday," said Mr Bates. "There are undoubtedly unique circumstances surrounding this game but as far as Strathclyde Police is concerned, it's business as usual. "The new act will be used if we need to use it, and we'll be reacting appropriately and proportionately to anything which occurs in the crowd."Mr Bates added he does not want to see a repeat of the 1999 league decider when referee Hugh Dallas was hit by a coin at Celtic Park.He said: "It's something we've planned for, we have contingencies in place to deal with anything, but I don't expect to see a repeat of that kind of problem."The officer said the Old Firm operation started last night and will continue well into the evening on Sunday.There will be a heightened police presence in the city centre and surrounding areas and licensed premises will be closely monitored.He added: "We're there to make sure people get to the game safely and go home safely."Celtic will arrive at Ibrox needing a victory to win the title if third-placed Motherwell fail to beat Kilmarnock today.

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McCoist calls for calm as Celtic seek Ibrox title win

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