Rangers Football Club News

• Nickname:The gers, The light blues
• Founded:1873
• Manager:Ally McCoist

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Pitch problems upset Smith

21 Apr 2008 - 10:44:30

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Rangers manager Walter Smith blamed the Hampden Park pitch for Steven Naismith's injury in Sunday's dramatic Scottish Cup semi-final victory against St Johnstone.

Chris Burke also picked up an injury in the match to mar Smith's enjoyment of his side's success, which was only sealed after a penalty shoot-out.

The former Everton manager said: "Steven actually hurt his knee twice. At first he thought he was going to be OK, but when he went back on he caught his foot in the ground.

"I've said publicly our own pitch isn't a good one this season but for the National Stadium that one is in a shocking condition.

"Steven caught his foot in the ground and twisted his knee for a second time. It was an awkward one. I don't think there's any major damage but enough to make him miss a few games.

"By all accounts they can't water the pitch here before games for some reason. I don't fully understand why.

"It's no excuse for the way we played but it was attributable to Steven Naismith's injury and you could see a number of other players catching their studs in the ground because it was so dry and uneven."