Gers charged by Uefa

Scottish champions charged after crowd disturbances in Romania

Last updated: 5th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Gers charged by Uefa

Rangers fans: Accused

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Rangers have been charged by Uefa following crowd disturbances during their Champions League game in Romania on Wednesday.

The Scottish champions have been charged with the improper conduct of their supporters, with the case set to be dealt with by Uefa's control and disciplinary body next Thursday.

The move comes after European football's governing body received their official delegate's report on the incident, which marred Walter Smith's side's 1-1 Champions League Group G draw with Unirea Urziceni.

Gers supporters were seen fighting with police at half-time, with one fan caught ripping out seats, while Romanian police used CS gas spray in an effort to disperse the trouble.

While Uefa have hinted that Rangers could be banned from European competition, Gers chief executive Martin Bain has hit out at Unirea for their treatment of Scottish fans.

Reports have suggested that only one or two turnstiles were opened, causing many fans to miss the majority of the first half.

Instigated

Responding to the charge, Bain said: "We have been informed by Uefa that disciplinary proceedings have been instigated in relation to the throwing of missiles and crowd disturbances.

"As already stated, I am not for a moment condoning the action of some supporters to the unfolding of events within the stadium.

"But, as a club, the preparations which were agreed and insisted upon in advance were not adhered to and this in turn we feel jeopardised the safety of our supporters."

Reiterating his belief that over-zealous policing was partly to blame for the trouble, Bain added: "We are fully aware of the indiscriminate use of CS gas and the difficulties experienced by our fans accessing the stadium.

"All these factors will be presented fully by the club to Uefa in our submission."