Source: PA
Rangers blame tension on Celtic `abuse'
Rangers chief executive Martin Bain believes the explosive events of Wednesday's Old Firm derby were sparked by the treatment of some of their players in previous meetings with Celtic.
Ibrox trio Steven Whittaker, Madjid Bougherra and El-Hadji Diouf were all shown red cards in the Scottish Cup replay at Parkhead, which Celtic won 1-0.
Rangers assistant manager Ally McCoist and Celtic boss Neil Lennon also had to be separated during an angry exchange after the final whistle of what had been a bad-tempered match.
In a statement released by Rangers, Bain said: "There was indeed increased tension at the match between the clubs, mainly as a result of incidents at previous matches where two of our players were the subject of extreme verbal abuse in the tunnel and around the dug-out area at Ibrox.
"Our management team are highly regarded across the football world for their approach to the game.
"Our assistant manager, who is acutely aware of representing Rangers in the best possible way, became embroiled in a situation where he acted in the defence of our players. He met Neil Lennon again after the match and is now satisfied the Celtic manager is fully aware of his views."
