THE president of the Scottish FA has called violent scenes in Glasgow during Rangers supporters' title celebrations "an abomination".
Rod Petrie says the ugly events brought "embarrassment" to the national game and those who fought with one another and clashed with police "cannot be considered football fans".
Officers have already made 30 arrests and promised more are on the way while today Ibrox bosses hit out at the "small minority" who "besmirched the good name of the club".
READ MORE: George Square: Rangers break silence on Glasgow title celebrations
In a statement today, Petrie said: "The Scottish FA congratulates Rangers on winning the Scottish Premiership title.
"While the majority of the club’s fan base will have celebrated this achievement safely and in line with Covid-19 guidelines across the country and beyond, the scenes witnessed in and around Glasgow’s George Square have brought embarrassment to the national game.
"Scenes that require the First Minister, Justice Secretary, Police Scotland and the Scottish Police Federation to issue condemnatory statements, and images that dominated the news agenda throughout the weekend, represent an abomination not a celebration.
"Those responsible for sectarian singing, for vandalism and for inflicting physical damage may attach themselves to football but cannot be considered football fans. Police Scotland have made a number of arrests and more are expected to follow.
"The Scottish FA has recently issued its equality diversity and inclusion strategy, Football Unites. Events on Saturday at George Square served only to depict our game in the poorest light and we condemn the behaviour in the strongest terms.
"We empathise with fans who have been deprived of attending matches throughout this pandemic. That, however, does not excuse the behaviour of those who brought chaos to the streets in the name of football this weekend."
As well as clashing with police, a section of the supporters shouted vile anti-Catholic slogans and damaged property in the city. It forced a number of businesses to shut up shop early and send staff home over fears for their safety.
In a statement today, Rangers said: "Winning our 55th league title in our 150th year was a historic day for Rangers Football Club. The support from millions of our fans across the world has been incredible.
"The achievement by Steven Gerrard and his team has received plaudits from across the football family, including recognition by sports writers, opposition players and managers.
"We are grateful to Scottish Government officials, Glasgow City Council and Police Scotland for the constructive engagement in the lead up to the weekend’s game.
"We worked closely with the authorities for two weeks before Saturday’s match to ensure a consistency of message.
READ MORE: George Square: John Swinney insists all necessary steps taken to avoid Rangers fans gathering
"Sadly, a small minority of people behaved inappropriately and in a manner not reflective of our support. Some of the scenes were unacceptable and have besmirched the good name of Rangers Football Club.
"These so called “fans” should reflect upon the values and ethos of our club, and consider the damage this does to the reputation of the club.
"We will continue to engage with authorities as required."
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