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More than 20,000 Rangers fans goind to Barca I will be one of them

East Fife v Rangers 1986/87 For the Rangers fans of my generation, our League Cup tie against East Fife in 1986 was the first opportunity to visit Old Bayview. The game attracted over 10,000 fans who were shoehorned into the little ground in Methil. What I can remember from this game was that it was early in the Souness era and we went into the game on the back of an inconsistent start to the season, but we were odds-on to defeat the Methil Men. At the time, I was working beside an East Fife player - Stuart Burgess ââ?¬â?? who went on to play in the SPL for Falkirk ââ?¬â?? If I remember correctly, Burgess inflicted a serious injury on Colin West during the game after a horrific challenge and was on the receiving end of ââ?¬Ë?retributionââ?¬â?¢ from Terry Butcher. The game finished 0-0 after extra time and Rangers escaped with a victory after a tense penalty shoot-out (which was won 5-4). I am sure that we also missed a penalty in normal time, but that could be my mind playing tricks on me! The game wasnââ?¬â?¢t memorable for any reason, other than it was my first visit to Bayview. So what can the Rangers of 2007 take from the above game? Well, not to underestimate the opposition and not to take victory for granted. Also, it is worth noting that the League Cup campaign gave Souness his first trophy after we defeated Craptic 2-1 in the final. That victory gave is a springboard in the league as well. East Fifeââ?¬â?¢s greatest times were in the late 40ââ?¬â?¢s when they were managed by the great Scott Symon who guided the Fife club to ââ?¬Ë?Bââ?¬â?¢ championship and league cup glory. Further success was gained in the next decade including one season where East Fife led the first division championship race for almost the entire season, only to be pipped for the title by Rangers. For further information (itââ?¬â?¢s a decent read) can be gained from East Fifeââ?¬â?¢s official website - http://www.eastfife.org/details.asp?type=history6 Wunderbar What can I say about the marvellous start to our latest Champions League adventure? After a very nervous start, we came onto a game and in the 2nd half played some wonderful football. On a night like that, it is hard to pick out players for ââ?¬Ë?special praiseââ?¬â?¢ as the entire team were fantastic. However, the Stuttgart game demonstrated just how much we need Barry Ferguson and once again, BF shows us that he is one of the best midfield players this country has produced in the last 2 decades. His drive, desire, leadership qualities were there for all to see. In my opinion that was Fergusonââ?¬â?¢s best game in a Rangers jersey since he ran the entire Bayern Leverkusen a merry jig in the BayArena. Some people have questioned (rightly or wrongly) why Barry Ferguson hasnââ?¬â?¢t performed to this level since his return from Blackburn. In my opinion, this is the first time since his return that he has actually had players alongside him who complement his game. When Walter Smith returned he knew that his first priority was to fix the defence that had more leaks than a very leaky thing. His second was to ensure that he could surround our best footballer with players who complemented his style. In players like Thompson, Hendami, Thomson, SW and Lee McCulloch, Ferguson has players who, like him, have desire, drive, determination as well as undoubted ability. Hopefully this will see Barry Ferguson return to his best. After going a goal behind, the response from the players was phenomenal. Instead of letting the heads drop, we just rolled up our sleeves, pushed forward and eventually got our just reward. Charlie Adamââ?¬â?¢s goal brilliant but we can not go any further without a special mention to Alan Hutton for his storming runs for both goals. JCB was coolness personified as he blasted home the penalty. Dolly Demolished So Saturday was the latest instalment of the most one-sided rivalry in World Football. With the visitors firmly stuck in the 80ââ?¬â?¢s when they were a ââ?¬Ë?forceââ?¬â?¢ for about 25 minutes, they still believe that they are a ââ?¬Ë?rivalââ?¬â?¢ to the most successful club in the world. Meanwhile, we the Rangers fans treat them for what they are, a minor irritation from the frozen North. To illustrate to any reading Dollies how ridiculous there claims of a ââ?¬Ë?rivalryââ?¬â?¢ are lets sing a wee song ââ?¬â?? to the tune of One Man Went To Mow : 1 Year Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 2 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 3 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 4 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 5 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 6 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 7 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 8 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 9 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 10 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 11 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 12 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 13 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 14 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 15 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox 16 Years Since You Won, Since You Won At Ibrox The latest thumping of Abergreen was never in doubt after Lee McCullochââ?¬â?¢s stunning opener which seemed to spur us on to yet another fantastic 2nd half performance. SN then killed the game with his first goal for us which was brilliantly taken. His full debut was rudely cut short by a dreadful tackle by the ââ?¬Ë?hate-filledââ?¬â?¢ Zander Diamond. SNââ?¬â?¢s replacement Kris Boyd scored a good 3rd goal which was just the icing on the cake. One last question for any Dollies that have made it this far ââ?¬â?? when you sing ââ?¬Ë?Weââ?¬â?¢re Only Sheep Shagging Barstewardsââ?¬â?¢ ââ?¬â?? what part of that statement makes it acceptable and something to shout about? Artur Boric Surely I wasnââ?¬â?¢t the only one who had a wee chuckle at the best keeper in Europe (cough, splutter) gifting the Hibees two goals and 3 points on Sunday? Anyway, this isnââ?¬â?¢t a critique of his abilities, but to look at his indiscretions towards the Hibs fans. As well as giving them the finger, he celebrated both Craptic goals in an ââ?¬Ë?unsavouryââ?¬â?¢ manner. Add this to the FACT that he has already been warned by the Police after gesticulating at us (any MOPES reading it wasnââ?¬â?¢t for blessing himself) surely something has to be done? Never mind Artur, I am sure that youââ?¬â?¢ll once again find yourself in a park miles from youââ?¬â?¢re home where a pregnant woman will be getting racially abused by a mysterous gang of racist thugs and youââ?¬â?¢ll be the hero once again. Cammy F ââ?¬â?? We Are The Peopleââ?¬Â¦.

Back Down To Earth With A Bump Maybe itââ?¬â?¢s just the eternal pessimist in me, but wasnââ?¬â?¢t there something rather predictable and inventible about the 4-2 defeat to Hearts? Not just the result, but in the manner of the performance, team selection and a return to form from this seasons laughing stock / whipping boys that are Heart of Midlothian? Not too many of our players covered themselves in glory at Tynecastle with our normally reliable defence looking at sixes and sevens. McGregor and Hutton were awful and CC and Weir werenââ?¬â?¢t much better. Weir in particular has looked a tired and jaded defender of the last few weeks and maybe its time to rest his aging limbs. Without BF in midfield, we appear a rudderless ship. I know many Rangers fans believe that we are a better team without Ferguson, but in my humble opinion that theory was blown out of the water today. With no BF we have no fight, no guile and donââ?¬â?¢t appear as solid. Hard to blame the forwards today as they received very little service but I have to say that WS MUST pick his preferred front two and stick with them. This chopping and changing isnââ?¬â?¢t doing anyone any good so pick 2 and stick with them for 10 (or so games). Personally, I would plump for Cousin and Darchville. However, overall, we have had a decent start to the season and it will be interesting to see how the players bounce back from this set-back (lets hope thatââ?¬â?¢s all it is) against Stuttgart in our opening Champions League fixture. It will also be interesting to see how WS and his staff play this game. Will we go all out for a victory or will they play it cagey? For me, the next 2 games (Stuttgart, Abergreen) are MUST wins so Iââ?¬â?¢d like to see WS picking our strongest 11 and going for back to back impressive victories in the coming days. Rollercoaster One thing that is for sure, the result against Hearts wonââ?¬â?¢t be our only ââ?¬Ë?downââ?¬â?¢ of the season and as fans, all we can hope for is that we have more ââ?¬Ë?upsââ?¬â?¢ than we have ââ?¬Ë?downsââ?¬â?¢. Itââ?¬â?¢s safe to say that most of us would have been pleased with only one defeat and progression into the Champions League group stages if offered it at the start of the season. Lets not forget that we are bedding in a whole new team and unfortunately, weââ?¬â?¢ll have days like today at Tynecastle ââ?¬â?? itââ?¬â?¢s the nature of the beast and comes with the territory. As long as the players and management learn from these mistakes and as long as these knock-backs make us stronger and wiser we should ensure more highs than lows. We have a huge month coming up and at the end of that period we will have a much better idea of our best team / formation and a clearer picture of how our season is going to pan out. The reaction to the Hearts defeat has been predictable and as we know, life at Rangers is black or white ââ?¬â?? there is no middle ground. Last week we were flying, unstoppable, certain SPL winners and had a chance in our CL group. One defeat later, we are also-rans, garbage, and likely to get zero points in the CL. As usual, the reality will lie somewhere in the ââ?¬Ë?middle-groundââ?¬â?¢. Some of our new signings have shown enough to suggest that they will be decent purchases for us. Others still have some work to do to convince the majority that they have something to offer. However, as we are as a fanbase very hard to please, some of them will be written off no matter what they achieve at Rangers (just look at Peter Lovenkrands as an example). So folks, get yourself belted in and get ready to ride the rollercoaster that is Rangers FC. Estadio Santiago Bernabeu Just returned from Madrid were we visited the magnificent Estadio Santiago Bernabeu and have to say that the tour of the stadium is a must for all football fans. It was a privilege to have visited the home of Real Madrid and would highly recommend the tour. It cost E15 and unlike most stadium tours I have made, this is self paced and doesnââ?¬â?¢t include a tour guide. The only negative is that their isnââ?¬â?¢t anyone to ask question as most of the ââ?¬Ë?officialsââ?¬â?¢ situated around the tour area donââ?¬â?¢t speak English. However, you are given a brilliant tour ââ?¬Ë?bookletââ?¬â?¢ that is yours to keep. Tours run from 10:30AM to 7:00PM Monday to Saturday (until 6:30PM Sundays and bank holidays) ââ?¬â?? only closed Xmas and New Years Day. The tour starts with a lift up to the top tier for a panoramic view of the stadium (and surrounding area if you are interested) and you really appreciated the scale of the stadium when you are ââ?¬Ë?up in the Godsââ?¬â?¢. Then it is off to the ââ?¬Ë?Trophy Exhibitionââ?¬â?¢ which houses European Cups, UEFA Cups, League Trophies etc along with photos of famous matches, players etc. Next itââ?¬â?¢s a tour of the ââ?¬Ë?standsââ?¬â?¢ that includes the Presidential Box, Dug-Outs and a walk pitch-side and then to the dressing rooms via the tunnel. You only get to visit the away dressing room as the ââ?¬Ë?galactiosââ?¬â?¢ require their ââ?¬Ë?privacyââ?¬â?¢. From there you are directed into the press-room then the tour finishes in the club shop. One major factor in this tour is the Club Museum which hosts the ââ?¬Ë?Trophy Exhibitionââ?¬â?¢ and highlights why we really require something similar at Ibrox. The museum tracks the history of the club from its conception in 1902 up until the present day and houses all their trophies as well as shirts from players from every era of the club (not just at football but athletics, boxing, basketball etc). Another very interesting piece in the museum is a board that shows all players who have played for Real as well as their nationalities. There is one Scotsman by the name of Watson to have pulled on the famous white jersey. So all in all, the tour is well worth the E15 and it took us well over 2 hours to complete. There is no restrictions on camera or video equipment so you are free to capture all this history on film for future reference. Cammy F ââ?¬â?? We Are The Peopleââ?¬Â¦.

http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=494&Itemid=1 Ever since Alan Hutton was given his debut at Partick Thistle in December 2002, Rangers fans have been divided over his contribution. Is he good enough? Can he develop? Is he international class? With every passing game, the lad is answering every one of those questions with aplomb! Ever since around last November - not just since PLG left - Hutton has simply been outstanding. Consistent, strong, athletic, disciplined, good on the ball, aerially competent, decent distribution and generally developing into a top-class player. I hear off the park he has changed his lifestyle and attitude completely. Once again the lad was superb last night. Despite being isolated at times, he again dealt with Malouda very well (as he done against Chelsea) and for the most part (in the second half especially) forged a decent understanding with Brown. In only his 2nd competitive cap he already looks as if he'll be an international mainstay for years to come. Despite strong criticism over the last couple of years, when Hutton first became a regular first team player towards the end of the the 2004/05 season and the beginning of the next season Hutton looked like a player capable of doing what he's doing now. After he broke his leg he obviously lost his place, his confidence, his fitness and the backing of much of the support. Since then he has fought back well (from the injury, poor dispays and fan barracking) to find the kind of form (and more) when he first broke into the team. His reaction to us signing Phil Bardsley really appears to have focussed his mind. To his credit he's came through those challenges a better player and I think that experience will help his career even more than if it hadn't happened. To that end, there is nothing stopping the lad going to the very top if he continues his form of the last year or so. In addition to Hutton, it's great to see so many other young Scottish players eager to grasp the opportunity of not only playing for their club but the national side as well. To be a success (even in Scotland) you must have the self-belief and extra social discipline to led your life and career as constructively as possible. In the last year or so I think the likes of McGregor, Hutton, Smith and Boyd at Rangers have really shown what can be done by being professional and consistent in your performance. Guys like Naismith, Burke, Adam, Gow, Broadfoot and the younger fellas such as Fleck et al can only take heart from this kind of attitude and I'm really excited for the future of the club. Not only will we have a Scottish foundation for years to come but the foreigners we do sign to compliment them will see what genuine Scottish graft and spirit can do for their game. With the excellent Craig Gordon, Darren Fletcher, James McFadden, Scott Brown and Stephen McManus (who had one of the best games I've seen him play last night), it's not only Rangers but Scottish football generally who will profit from this new breed of exciting Scottish talent. What will the negative Scottish hacks write about now?

Hadn't seen this posted. RANGERS fans have come up with their own new song which we hope all the supporters will listen to and adopt into their repertoire. CLICK HERE to listen to it now! More exciting news about supporters' interaction with matchday songs to follow soon! mms://video.premiumtv.co.uk/rangersfc/video/newrangerssong_hi.wma Thoughts?

http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=138&Itemid=1 The Trust is delighted to release the results of their recent online Rangers supportersââ?¬â?¢ survey. Please visit the downloads section of the site to peruse the document (PDF File ââ?¬â?? 76K). It is the most comprehensive online survey ever conducted on the views of Rangers fans and covers all aspects of following the club - from the match-day experience itself through to the way the club conducts its relationships with customers, both internal and external. This report will be submitted to the club at the earliest opportunity and the Trust urge the club to consider and comment on its contents. We hope they welcome its findings - as valuable data has been obtained for the Club - at the sole expense of the volunteers who run the Trust, and trust its value is recognised. Please note that this survey was open to both members and non-members of the Trust.

Interesting true story from a guy who goes on our RSC bus and owns his own window cleaning firm. He landed a contract to clean a football players windows in Airth but didn't know / ask / care who this footballer was - it was business after all. Anyway, his firm was cleaning the windows for a while and no one ever saw who this mystery footballer was - they assumed that he was at training etc when they were cleaning his windows. So this goes on for a while until one day, the footballer appears at his door and asks the guy cleaning his windows to get his boss over now. The 'boss' was actually on the job that day and wandered over to see what the problem was. The footballer in question asked the 'boss' - 'Are all your guys Rangers fans' - the 'boss' replied - 'Not them all, but most of them'. The footballer then told the 'boss' to get his lads of his property and to 'fook off' and don't come back. It transpires that the footballer had heard one of the guys mobiles going off with Follow Follow as the ringtone and wan't a happy chappy. The footballer must have then decided that he didn't want Rangers fans cleaning his windows - the footballer in question - jeez should I spill the beans.... Craptic sub Derek Riorden Cammy F

http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=487&Itemid=2 One of the most interesting items to come out of last weekââ?¬â?¢s club AGM was Sir David Murrayââ?¬â?¢s concession with regard to finally having a ââ?¬Ë?democratically electedââ?¬â?¢ Rangers fan on the executive board of the club (1). So what does this mean for the support? To being with, I feel we should concentrate on the key phrases ââ?¬â?? ââ?¬Ë?democratically electedââ?¬â?¢ and ââ?¬Ë?executive boardââ?¬â?¢. This is important as to give a proper idea of what kind of candidate we can expect to see nominated as well as the organisations responsible for these nominations. As it stands, via the Rangers Supporters Assembly (2), we have an ââ?¬Ë?officialââ?¬â?¢ organisation while via the Rangers Supporters Trust (3); we have an ââ?¬Ë?unofficialââ?¬â?¢ organisation. The Assembly actually encompasses all of the other bodies involved with the fans (from the Trust itself, to the Alliance, Association, NARSA and ORSA). Obviously, all these initials and groups can be confusing so weââ?¬â?¢ll try our best to keep it simple. The Assembly is also the official fans body in the eyes of the club. Set up by, then chairman, John McLelland to combat the perceived threat of the politically astute new Trust in 2003; the Assembly has an office within Ibrox Stadium and an annual budget of around Ã?£30,000 to carry our itââ?¬â?¢s duties. President Jim Templeton (interviewed here by Gersnet earlier this year) has been in charge since its inception and continues to represent the Rangers supporters at board level. His duties do not involve the executive business of the club and he does not attend the formal business of these meetings. As such, because of their official ties and because their remit isnââ?¬â?¢t as wide-ranging as many fans would like, the Assembly doesnââ?¬â?¢t seem to have the same credibility as the wholly independent Trust. Moreover, because the Assembly doesnââ?¬â?¢t have a ââ?¬Ë?one member ââ?¬â?? one voteââ?¬â?¢ system like the Trust, it also suffers from not being truly democratic in its approach. Indeed, while the Assembly conveys a sense of representing all fans not many fans are aware they are members or know how to raise issues through their reps. Flawed is perhaps the best description for the Assembly. On the other hand, the Trust is different in its workings. The organisation prides itself on being both democratic and open. All board members are elected (although co-option is also a necessary part of its constitution) and ratified by the membership. In addition, every member can attend and raise motions at their AGM. As part of the Assembly and through its regular dialogue with the club, the Trust also ensures it retains a professional, working relationship with the club to ensure its members opinions are constantly on the agenda with the powers that be. Recently, the chairman and secretary of the Rangers Supporters Association joined the Trust board as they felt their members (all RSCââ?¬â?¢s) were better represented by the Trustââ?¬â?¢s outlook. Jim Templeton was also co-opted at the same time but has since resigned for personal reasons. All this background information means that we essentially have two organisations vying for one RFC board position (initially at least). The Trust has already announced their chairman Malcolm McNiven (4) has been nominated to the club for the role. This was unanimously backed by the Trust board and is expected to be ratified by the membership at their AGM this week. Jim Templeton is also widely expected to secure an Assembly nomination although ââ?¬â?? unlike the Trust ââ?¬â?? the topic wasnââ?¬â?¢t raised at their AGM and so far no vote has been held of their committee. As such, if Mr Templeton is nominated by the Assembly, doubts remain as to the clarity of his candidacy in terms of David Murrayââ?¬â?¢s ââ?¬Ë?democratically electedââ?¬â?¢ comments. It certainly does seem the Trust vehicle satisfies those terms more effectively. Where the Trust nomination arguably does lack credibility is in its actual representation per se. Although it does have approaching 5000 members, it does not match the ââ?¬Ë?umbrellaââ?¬â?¢ nature of the Assembly which claims to (sometimes indirectly) represent the whole RFC support. Of course, while members of the Assembly, Association, Alliance etc are active members of the Trust (and vice versa), itââ?¬â?¢s this lack of unity across the spectrum that can cause confusion and division from time to time. Certainly, what is clear, is that the Trust are the only organisation who have been interested in genuine supporters representation in the terms SDM spoke of and their attempts to unite the different groups under their ethos are admirable. The Trust has been lobbying for a supporter on the executive board for nearly 5 years and thereââ?¬â?¢s no doubt they (and they alone) have managed to persuade the club chairman into his AGM comments. We can of course look at the two potential candidates as well. Both Jim Templeton and Malcolm McNiven come from business related backgrounds. Similarly, both are successful in their careers and both have worked hard to represent their members as office bearers of their organisations. Indeed itââ?¬â?¢s very difficult to separate their CVââ?¬â?¢s on first glance and one must delve deeper to find the differences worth of debate. The first again comes down to credibility. On all the major issues that have concerned Rangers fans over the last 5 years, itââ?¬â?¢s the McNiven led Trust that have been most vociferous and constructive in their work. From their unmatched media function; to fully in-depth safety reports on the Stuttgart/Pamplona disgraces; to bringing money into the club (via the impressive GerSave initiative); to open and full dialogue with the club administration ââ?¬â?? the Trust have been more active, more open, more vocal and more constructive in their work and achievements. While the Assembly works hard and often doesnââ?¬â?¢t receive the praise it occasionally deserves, they simply do not offer the same independence and results of the Trust. Especially when one considers their budget which seems to yield little compared to the Trust who are actually raising money for the club in their activities. That conclusion ââ?¬â?? however empirical it may be ââ?¬â?? raises another important question. If McNiven were to be elected onto the Board of the club, would the Trust lose that independence and credibility? Moreover, how could fans who are not members of the Trust feel they were truly represented? This certainly isnââ?¬â?¢t easy to answer either. What is clear is that part of McNivenââ?¬â?¢s initial remit would be to address those very issues. His initial main responsibility would be to formulate a workable and democratic system of membership and election to which he himself would voluntarily submit when it was in place. Having him organise this from his current unique position of independence and democratic background would ensure the kind of credible results all supporters want. Once this is in place then we can then move onto the issue of ensuring that year on year we have the most suitable person representing all of us. Further, instead of having several different organisations pulling in different directions, we should have one unified group acting in the best possible interests of us all. This should be in the form of an organisation where everyone can be involved in how it works as well as the decision-making processes. Due to the hard work of the Trust, the first steps have been made. These will define the direction for the future. Letââ?¬â?¢s begin by having a learned democratic, independent supporter outlining genuine supportersââ?¬â?¢ representation. Malcolm McNiven is the best choice of pioneer and his nomination should have widespread backing. Iââ?¬â?¢m confident that if we put our trust in him we will secure the kind of open and unified representation many of us have wanted for a long time. Not only that, his previous record will help ensure the hardest questions are asked of the board while innovation, imagination and ambition are once more part of the executive board of Rangers. With the current positive results on the field, having a supporter on the board of the club can only enhance our future. As a well known Rangers supporter once said ââ?¬â?? ââ?¬Ë?there can be only oneââ?¬â?¢ ââ?¬â?? letââ?¬â?¢s make sure itââ?¬â?¢s the right one. References 1 - http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/football/teams/r/rangers/6961230.stm 2 - http://www.rangersassembly.com/ 3 - http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/ 4 - http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=136&Itemid=1

Reports on Clyde stating that Rangers fans getting pelted with missiles in nthe stadium and the bus taking the Scottish journalists to the ground attacked with bottles (sounf familiar?) - reports stating that Red Star fans to blame. Lets hope for a safe return for all our fans, players and staff. Not point asking for Uefa to take action, as long as the Red Star fans don't sing any 'nasty songs'.... Cammy F

Itââ?¬â?¢s with great interest this morning that I view the following video of Saturdayââ?¬â?¢s match at Celtic Park. Despite Celtic FC and their fans constantly telling us the problem of sectarianism has been eradicated from their support ââ?¬â?? especially at home ââ?¬â?? here a large cross-section of their fans are clearly heard singing ââ?¬Ë?Go Home Ya Hunsââ?¬â?¢ to the Hearts away support. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ft_NLT_kUCM After another weekend of certain journalists telling us how allegedly a small number of Rangers fans were booed by their fans as they tried to imbibe ââ?¬Ë?Follow Followââ?¬â?¢ with an offensive add-on, itââ?¬â?¢s equally interesting that the biggest and most obvious circumstance of such discriminatory singing occurs at Celtic Park and is largely ignored by the very same people. Once again the Scottish media show they will not report Celtic in a negative light despite the most overwhelming of evidence. Graham Spiers, Gerry McNee and Jim Traynor have all been keen to stick the boot into Rangers and their support in recent years but theyââ?¬â?¢ve been strangely quiet over the last few days ââ?¬â?? one even suggesting Rangers fans should ââ?¬Ë?get a lifeââ?¬â?¢ for complaining. I canââ?¬â?¢t remember him telling his peers in the Fourth Estate that or taking that advice personally in the past. Why now? Or is Traynor right? Are supporters of clubs being all too easily offended? Perhaps they are but its bizarre how these intense bigotry crusaders are now backtracking on the nomenclature after the rules are put in place to aid their concerns and stop the kind of thing being sung on Saturday. So, is the term ââ?¬Ë?hunââ?¬â?¢ sectarian? Well, despite doubts about that when one considers its literal meanings(1), when one looks at the background of its usage, there can only be one conclusion. Firstly, several media platforms [including the Observer(2), CBS News(3) and the Irish Political Review(4)] have all showed that the term is used in Northern Ireland with sectarian connotations. Secondly, most (if not all media platforms in this country) have banned its use ââ?¬â?? the BBC, Real Radio(5), Talksport(6), and the Scotland on Sunday(7) are just four examples of this. Finally, and arguably, most importantly, the anti-sectarianism campaign ââ?¬Ë?Nil by Mouthââ?¬â?¢ also describe this abusive term as sectarian(8). Of course, if the story did make the news, weââ?¬â?¢ll get dozens of replies from concerned Celtic fans suggesting the opposite is true. Much in the same way a small number of Rangers fans try to defend the word ââ?¬Ë?fen!anââ?¬â?¢ (which has very similar literal meanings but has been banned by the footballing authorities and deemed criminal by the police) they may actually have a strong argument. After all, how can anyone know what someone means when they use an insult? And thereââ?¬â?¢s the rub. Hun is insulting. Fen!an is insulting. Neither term has a place in footballing stadia nor should football fans want to include them in their songs. Surely, we can have a bit of banter without this kind of crude nonsense? If we canââ?¬â?¢t, then going by previous action against Rangers supporters by UEFA and the SPL/SFA, further problems will arise. All along, itââ?¬â?¢s been obvious that Rangers are not the only club with offensive songs. It will be interesting to note if other clubs will now face the same censure by both the authorities and the media. No excuses. References 1 - http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/hun 2 - http://observer.guardian.co.uk/comment/story/0,,2078535,00.html 3 - http://www.cbc.ca/news/viewpoint/vp_byrne/20060529.html 4 - http://www.atholbooks.org/archives/pastipr/feb05.php 5 - http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=80&Itemid=48'>http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=80&Itemid=48 6 - http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=80&Itemid=48 7 - http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/scotland.cfm?id=1855222005 8 - http://www.nilbymouth.org/history.htm

http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=136&Itemid=1 The Board and members of the Rangers Supporters' Trust were delighted that after four years of campaigning by the Trust, Sir David Murray yesterday opened to door to supporterââ?¬â?¢s representation on the board of Rangers Football Club at the clubââ?¬â?¢s 2007 AGM. The core aims of the Trust include securing supportersââ?¬â?¢ representation and widening share ownership amongst Rangers fans. The Rangers Supportersââ?¬â?¢ Trust is therefore pleased to announce that it has today put forward the name of it's Chairman, Malcolm McNiven, to be appointed to the Board of Rangers Football Club. Mr McNiven's nomination comes at the end of a lengthy series of discussions between representatives of the Trust and club chairman Sir David Murray and Chief Executive Martin Bain, on supporter representation and all key aspects of the relationship between the club and the supporters. During these negotiations it was felt it might be helpful to the process of democratisation if an additional director was appointed to the RFC Board, with the remit that includes considering the electoral mechanism best suited to giving a fair representation to all members of the Rangers Family. Mr McNiven's nomination was unanimously agreed at a meeting of the Board of the Supportersââ?¬â?¢ Trust on 8 August. Mr McNiven accepted the nomination and pledged that he would take forward the Trust's ideals, with an initial objective of helping develop a sustainable system of supporters' representation at the club. Mr McNiven said: "I view this as a great opportunity to develop and improve the relationship between the club and the support base, and open channels for constructive dialogue on what the supporters believe are meaningful issues" NOTE: Malcolm McNiven, aged 34, is a prominent figure in the Glasgow financial community and Finance Director of Direct Sharedeal Limited, a fast growing brokerage business with offices throughout the UK. Malcolm has been Chair of the Trust for 2 years and involved since its inception in April 2003. The Rangers Supportersââ?¬â?¢ Trust is the fastest growing supportersââ?¬â?¢ Trust in the UK and the leading organisation for Rangers fans, open to all on a ââ?¬Ë?one person one voteââ?¬â?¢ basis. The Trust has already created thousands of new shareholders in Rangers FC, and through its innovative ââ?¬Ë?GerSaveââ?¬â?¢ scheme will shortly make its first sizeable investment in the club. The Trust AGM takes place in Glasgow on 1 September 2007.

http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=475&Itemid=1 Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it the last bastion of objectivity in the Scottish press? Is it a Rangers hating sensationalist who earns a living condemning sectarianism while taking every opportunity to fan its flames? Well, it depends who you talk to, but one thing I can say about Graham Spiers is that he writes horribly. Some Rangers fans get really worked up after reading some of Mr. Spiersââ?¬â?¢ articles, but I wonder where they get the energy ââ?¬â?? by the time Iââ?¬â?¢m finished Iââ?¬â?¢d be more likely to have the energy for strong emotion having necked a few jellies: they have that same somniferous effect. Iââ?¬â?¢m willing to allow for the possibility that itââ?¬â?¢s just me (itââ?¬â?¢s unarguable heââ?¬â?¢s written for various high-brow newspapers and has no doubt won awards and the like) - but Iââ?¬â?¢ve read some of the best and worst of humanityââ?¬â?¢s legacy in literature and havenââ?¬â?¢t found a writing style quite as irritating and sleep-inducing as Grahamââ?¬â?¢s. For quite a while I couldnââ?¬â?¢t put my finger on exactly what it was I didnââ?¬â?¢t like ââ?¬â?? Iââ?¬â?¢m a student of literature so I can hardly moan at him for his tendency to use big words, and given that I amble on myself I canââ?¬â?¢t really blame him for meandering from the point. But then I realised that I didnââ?¬â?¢t mind Nietzsche using big words because complex situations demand big words but Graham seemed to continuously use them borderline out of context just to remind us that heââ?¬â?¢s intelligent and knows them. And I also realised I didnââ?¬â?¢t mind Wittgenstein spanning a sentence over a whole page because the difficult subjects he was discussing demanded that every statement be fully qualified in its textual and environmental context; but if a sentence takes up a whole paragraph when discussing the comparatively simple matter of a football match then the chances are youââ?¬â?¢ve got your linguistic head up your own arse. So, hereââ?¬â?¢s my theory ââ?¬â?? I donââ?¬â?¢t know about your primary school, but at mine the teacher gave us words we had to use in a sentence as homework. To encourage you to develop your vocabulary at that age you got nice gold stars and ticks and whatnot for writing longer sentences with more obscure ââ?¬Ë?describing wordsââ?¬â?¢. Of course, when you get to secondary school they start to teach you the value of ââ?¬Ë?showingââ?¬â?¢ rather than ââ?¬Ë?tellingââ?¬â?¢, and how when grownups write itââ?¬â?¢s just silly to use a big word where an ordinary everyday small one will do, and how they shouldnââ?¬â?¢t write a million words where five will do. Reserve those big words and prosaic grand sounding sentences for where they are most effective and required, otherwise youââ?¬â?¢ll just sound like youââ?¬â?¢re trying to convince people you are intelligent, and sound all poncy. Or, if you want to be really clever, they say, you can use big words ââ?¬Ë?ironicallyââ?¬â?¢ by putting them beside slang ââ?¬â?? like I did in the opening paragraph with ââ?¬Ë?somniferousââ?¬â?¢. (This is all a lie, incidentally, but had my teacher been teaching the syllabus instead of stopping people attacking each other with chairs, Iââ?¬â?¢m reliably told that this is what she would have been saying). I think Graham has essentially stuck to the primary school style of writing mixed with archaic grandiose sounding phrases. So, letââ?¬â?¢s put my theory - that Graham Spiersââ?¬â?¢ writing is like a studious primary school childââ?¬â?¢s homework - to the test. A short while ago I read his article entitled ââ?¬Å?Hughes manages to focus on positives after goal rushââ?¬Â [1]. I didnââ?¬â?¢t realise that this was actually a Spiers article, and the promising snappy opening sentence did nothing to give the game away: ââ?¬Å?Every so often football has a pleasing habit of throwing up a match like thisââ?¬Â. Lovely. By the end of the second sentence (and, incidentally, the entire first paragraph) I was in no doubt of the author. It is a single sentence that includes the phrases ââ?¬Å?poured goalsââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?late splurgeââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?three in the final five minutesââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?sent the Rangers fans home happyââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?poor John Hughesââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?the Falkirk managerââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?groping around for a postmatch perspectiveââ?¬Â, ââ?¬Å?famously verbalââ?¬Â and quite ironically concludes that ââ?¬Å?Big Yogiââ?¬Â was ââ?¬Å?talking gibberishââ?¬Â. Iââ?¬â?¢m not sure if he read this back to himself; but if youââ?¬â?¢re going to summarise the match, make the unlikely comparison of the Rangers fansââ?¬â?¢ reaction and the Falkirk mangerââ?¬â?¢s, and conclude that someone is talking gibberish, all in a single sentence, then you probably want to do it in one that, at very least, Stephen Fry wouldnââ?¬â?¢t struggle to say aloud. At this point he doesnââ?¬â?¢t condescend to let us in on the gibberish Big Yogi was talking, but weââ?¬â?¢ll take his word for the moment. The next paragraph is entirely concise and to the point. To be fair this might be because it largely constitutes a quote from Walter Smith. Graham Spiers is definitely at his most concise when quoting. Perhaps for dramatic effect this brief flash of brevity is followed by one of the most astoundingly inappropriate sentences Iââ?¬â?¢ve ever seen committed to print when discussing a football match: ââ?¬Å?So let us examine more keenly this peculiarity of a gameââ?¬Â. As a general rule you shouldnââ?¬â?¢t write (unless youââ?¬â?¢re a poet) something you wouldnââ?¬â?¢t say in real life. I find it hard to believe that the top man in Oxford University in Jane Austenââ?¬â?¢s time would say ââ?¬Å?So let us examine more keenly this peculiarity of a theoryââ?¬Â with a straight face, never mind Graham Spiers discussing a football match whose only ââ?¬Ë?peculiarityââ?¬â?¢ to be ââ?¬Ë?keenly examinedââ?¬â?¢ was the fairly common scenario that the scoreline didnââ?¬â?¢t quite reflect the difference between the teams. After a fairly straightforward analysis of the game we build towards the climax hinted at in the first paragraph: that the score was so bafflingly unrepresentative of the game that it reduced poor Big Yogi to the incoherence of someone who had just survived a trainwreck. The quote chosen to represent John Hughesââ?¬â?¢ ââ?¬Ë?maniaââ?¬â?¢ and ââ?¬Ë?babblingââ?¬â?¢ reads like this: ââ?¬Å?We played some good football and make no mistake, we are a right good football side,ââ?¬Â he said. ââ?¬Å?At 3-2, I thought to myself, ââ?¬Ë?oh-ho, here we go, weââ?¬â?¢ll get right back into this.ââ?¬â?¢ Weââ?¬â?¢ve done something that few clubs ever do ââ?¬â?? weââ?¬â?¢ve come to Ibrox and taken two goals off Rangers.ââ?¬Â Iââ?¬â?¢m not sure about you, but that makes perfect sense to me. It certainly makes more sense than Spiersââ?¬â?¢ assessment of our new singing Cousin.... who is... wait for it.... ââ?¬Å?extremely decentââ?¬Â. Iââ?¬â?¢m not quite sure who edits these articles (I know Spiers was the sports editor at the Herald, so I assume if this is anything but a downwards step he must be at the Times) but you would think that this phrase making no sense in the English language would be good enough reason to re-think it. Players can be extremely good, or extremely bad, but not extremely decent ââ?¬â?? just like water can be extremely hot, or extremely cold, but not extremely lukewarm. The word ââ?¬Ë?decentââ?¬â?¢ implies no extremeness one way or the other. I mean, if John Hughes was ââ?¬Ë?babblingââ?¬â?¢ speaking shortly after the game, youââ?¬â?¢ve got to wonder how someone whoââ?¬â?¢s had at least 24 hours and the benefits of an editorial process can come out with something that makes absolutely no sense in our native tongue. So, to wrap up then, I donââ?¬â?¢t read Graham Spiers not because I have anything personally against him, but because I find his writing sometimes cringeworthy, sometimes sleep inducing. Itââ?¬â?¢s part of the staple diet of sitcoms to parody essentially unintelligent characters by making them speak in Ye Old English and use big words out of context. I get the same sense of akwardness when I read a Graham Spiers article ââ?¬â?? but perhaps this is what The Times readership is after? Maybe thereââ?¬â?¢s a whole stratum of society I have no access to where people go around speaking like this to each other. The problem is, though, that even if he used all these grand phrases poetically, and properly, he would still be talking about a game of football. He hasnââ?¬â?¢t picked up a secret and super-intellectual slant on the game all us mere mortals have missed, heââ?¬â?¢s basically just said ââ?¬Å?the score didnââ?¬â?¢t reflect the gameââ?¬Â with all the hyperbolic flair of a wean who gets good marks in their primary school homework because theyââ?¬â?¢ve said an ordinary thing in a prolix way. Its all the insight of a tabloid phone-in (that Iââ?¬â?¢m sure Graham would never associate himself with) couched in the language of someone parodying Ye Old English. Man, if I ever meet you Iââ?¬â?¢ll quite happily give you a gold star, but I wouldnââ?¬â?¢t pay Ã?£1 or whatever it is for The Times to hear what I heard in the pub after the game in un-necessarily verbose language. I donââ?¬â?¢t think the ââ?¬Ë?high-browââ?¬â?¢ readership of The Times will be fooled by it either. And as much as Iââ?¬â?¢d love to know what happened between PLG and Barry Ferguson I donââ?¬â?¢t think my sanity could handle English used in this way for a couple of hundred pages, and Iââ?¬â?¢ll be very suprised if people can in general. [1] http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/sport/football/scotland/article2288780.ece

After another fine win today, and in line with the positive nature of last weekââ?¬â?¢s ââ?¬Å?Look Forward Not Backââ?¬Â article, I thought Iââ?¬â?¢d take this opportunity to praise the Rangers support today at Ibrox. While it may not be a coincidence that the fans are in slightly better spirits considering our current wee unbeaten run, I think the support and, in particular, the guys and gals of the Blue Order singing section deserve a lot of credit for continuing to back the team so well. From the old favourites such as ââ?¬Ë?The Blue Sea of Ibroxââ?¬â?¢ to funny and original efforts adapted from ââ?¬Ë?Boney Mââ?¬â?¢ (honestly!) to laud Jean-Claude Darcheville, these songs sung loud and proud really help to make the match-day experience that little bit more refreshing ââ?¬â?? especially when the British ââ?¬Ë?summerââ?¬â?¢ reverts to type. The band situated behind the Blue Order (although not part of the group per se) is also doing a fine job. They seem to have improved a great deal in recent times and are starting to compliment the singing perfectly. The huge drums certainly help ensure the Decibel factor is kept at a maximum. Right through todayââ?¬â?¢s game, the crowd were vocally behind the team. Even Falkirk giving us a couple of scares amongst the Rangers plethora of chances and goals didnââ?¬â?¢t mute the atmosphere. Indeed, another ten minutes of bouncing to the Samba remix of ââ?¬Ë?Walter Smithââ?¬â?¢s Blue and White Armyââ?¬â?¢ with the drums, whistles and dancing made this bearââ?¬â?¢s day. Certainly, the Blue Order (and adjoining section) led the way once more inside the ground. Of course, it would be unfair to mention the hard-working members of the other singing areas when one talks about support. While this bear struggles to hear above the cacophony of noise in the Broomloan Front, the members of the Club Deck Loyal, East and West Enclosures and new Union Bears mean that fans in every part of the ground have the chance to take part in what they have to offer ââ?¬â?? be it singing, displays and generally helping ensure Ibrox is the kind of place that makes us all smile with pride on match-day. Therefore, itââ?¬â?¢s with no surprise but disappointment nonetheless, that we read nothing about the above in any newspaper this Sunday. These media platforms as well as the various radio and TV debates are always eager to stick the boot into the Rangers support whenever a negative story makes the news. Front page headlines and faux moral outrage are often the sensationalised negative stories we wake up to but whenever they have a chance to talk about or report on the positive efforts of the fans, suddenly the issue isnââ?¬â?¢t so attractive. Thus, while self-praise may not be the most modest way of acting, Gersnet Online would like to do what seems to be most unfashionable these days. Weââ?¬â?¢d like to praise the Rangers support. Weââ?¬â?¢d like to back their continuing efforts at facing their challenges. Weââ?¬â?¢d like to urge more of the same and to take confidence from a fine start to the season. Well done! We are the people, indeed! http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=474&Itemid=2

Aberdeen FC: The current Aberdeen FC was born out of the merger of three city clubs; Aberdeen, Victoria United and Orion in 1903. The new club played its first season in the Scottish Second Division and was then elected, rather than promoted, to the First Division. The club has never since been out of the top tier in Scottish football. Celtic FC: Celtic Football Club was formally constituted at a meeting in St. Mary's Church hall on East Rose Street (now Forbes Street), Calton, Glasgow, by an Irish Marist brother named Brother Walfrid originally from Ballymote in County Sligo on 6 November 1887. The charity established by Brother Walfrid was named The Poor Children's Dinner Table. Walfrid's move to establish the club as a means of fund raising was largely inspired by the example of Hibernian F.C. who were formed out of the immigrant Irish population thirteen years earlier in Edinburgh. On 28 May 1888, Celtic played their first official match against Rangers and won 5-2 in what was described as a "friendly encounter". Celtic had 8 'guest' players from Hibernian playing that day. Dundee United: Inspired initially by the example of Hibernian in Edinburgh and later by Celtic in Glasgow, the Irish community in Dundee formed a new football club in 1909, following the demise of Dundee Harp. Originally called Dundee Hibernian,(Hibernia is the Latin name for Ireland) the club took over Clepington Park (renamed Tannadice Park) from Dundee Wanderers and played their inaugural game on 18 August 1909 against Hibernian, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw. The following year, the club was voted into the Scottish Football League The club was saved from going out of business in October 1923 by a group of Dundee businessmen. They decided to change the club's name to Dundee United in order to attract a wider appeal; the name Dundee City was considered but was protested by long standing city rivals Dundee FC Falkirk FC: The club's date of formation is a point of much contention, although most accounts point to the year 1876 as the probable starting point, and this is the date used by the club and its fans as the formation date. The club quickly developed the nickname "The Bairns", a Scots word meaning child, son or daughter. This was in homage to an ancient Falkirk Burgh motto, "Better meddle wi' the deil [devil] than the Bairns O' Falkirk." Gretna FC: An amateur team before in the town, called Gretna Green F.C. had existed in the 19th century, but were bankrupt by the 1920s. This left the area without a team until Gretna FC was founded in 1946, who played locally in Dumfries. The following year, they made the unusual move of transferring to a league run by the English Football Association, the Carlisle and District League, despite being a Scottish based club. During the 1990s, they also became the first club from Scotland to appear in the FA Cup proper since Rangers had done so in 1887. Entered the Scottish league in 2002. Hearts of Midlothian FC: Hearts were founded in 1874 and are reputedly named after a popular local dance hall, which in turn took its name from the novel The Heart of Midlothian by Sir Walter Scott. The first Hearts Captain, Tom Purdie, stated that they may have played in 1873. They initially played at The Meadows, Powburn and Powderhall before moving to the Gorgie area in 1881. They moved to their current Tynecastle site in 1886. The earliest mention of Heart of Midlothian in a sporting context is a report in the Scotsman newspaper from 20 July 1864 of the Scotsman vs Heart of Mid-Lothian at cricket. It is not known if this was the same club who went on to form the football club. HibernianFC: he club was founded in August 1875 by members of the St Patrick's Roman Catholic Church based on the Cowgate. The club's principal founders were Canon Edward Joseph Hannan, and the head of the local Catholic Young Men's Association, Michael Whelahan, who became the first club captain. The meeting which established the club took place at the St. Mary's Street Hall, which can still be seen today. The team originally played, like all other teams of the time, on the Meadows, a park towards the south of Edinburgh's Old Town. The club moved to the Leith area of the city in 1880, to a purpose built ground named Hibernian Park, which stood where Bothwell Street now stands today. The club moved to its present ground at Easter Road in 1891, just a stone's throw away from their first home. Hibs were the first major club in Scotland formed by members of the Irish Catholic population of the time. The club's name reflects its Irish roots (Hibernia is the Latin name for Ireland). A strict translation of the name Hibernian F.C. would be "Irishmen Football Club." As the first such team, their example led to the creation of Dundee Hibernian (now Dundee United) and Celtic, who when they were formed were nearly called Glasgow Hibernian. Inverness Caledonian Thistle F.C: The club was formed as Caledonian Thistle F.C. in 1994 following the merger of Caledonian F.C. and Inverness Thistle F.C., both members of the Highland Football League, to fill a vacancy in the Scottish Football League. The club amended its name to Inverness Caledonian Thistle F.C. in 1996 at the request of Inverness District Council. Kilmarnock FC: The club's foundation dates to the very earliest days of organised football in Scotland, when a group of local cricketers looking for a sporting pursuit to occupy them outwith the cricket season formed a football club in 1869. Originally they played rugby rules, but the difficulty in organising fixtures and the growing influence of Queen's Park F.C. soon persuaded them to adopt the association code instead. These origins are reflected to this day by the name of the club's home ground - Rugby Park. Motherwell FC: In 1886, two amateur teams based in factories in Motherwell - Glencairn F.C. and Alpha F.C. - were invited to field a select team from both of their squads to play a similar select side from Glasgow. This amalgamated side competed in a charity competition, and talks afterwards fully merged the two sides into Motherwell Football Club on May 17, 1886 Rangers FC: One question that is often asked by many Rangers fans or historians alike, is when was the club actually formed? During 1872, 4 young Scots rowers watched their first game of Assocation Football which had taken off across the whole of the country over previous years. These young men, Moses McNeil, his brother Peter, William McBeath and Peter Campbell, excited by the new game, decided to start their own team, even though they had no kit or even a ball. Later that year, the team played it's first match; a 0-0 draw against Callander FC at Flesher's Haugh on Glasgow Green. By the next match; an 11-0 win over Clyde, the club was beginning to take shape with the team even wearing the colour blue for the first time. Officially, 1873 is known as the club's founding date. Moses McNeil named the club Rangers (adopted from an English rugby team!) and the first offical fixtures were arranged by the new club officers. The first AGM was also that year and the players had to undergo formal training sessions. Unfortunately, the club left it too late to register with the SFA for that year, so Rangers missed out on the inaugural Scottish Cup, won by Queens Park. Ergo, the club had to be content with friendlies for 1873 and most of 1874. St Mirren: St. Mirren were formed as a gentlemen's club which included amongst other sports, cricket and rugby in the late 19th century. The increasing popularity of football ensured that by 1877 the members had decided to switch codes and play association football. They are named after Saint Mirin the founder of Paisley Abbey and Patron Saint of Paisley.

http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=472&Itemid=2 Already, much has been written about the start of the season. Some of it is based on our reasonable start; some of it on the challenges we continue to face; and some of it understandably on past issues. What disappointments me most of all is the continued theme of negativity throughout all these topics. While one can empathise with these feelings, I think itââ?¬â?¢s time we tried to move on from the last 2 years of non-success and the last 7 years of inconsistency. Obviously, although that in no way means we should be ignoring the continuing problems we face in some areas, Iââ?¬â?¢m firmly of the opinion positivity breeds success and such an attitude can only help our club. Letââ?¬â?¢s look at matters on the park first. Ten new signings, 5 decent results and 5 clean sheets resulting in our early position at the top of the SPL and an increased chance of our progression to the financial pot of the Championsââ?¬â?¢ League rainbow. Considering the number of new players, the short summer of rest and the fact we lost out on a few targets, all in all itââ?¬â?¢s a satisfying start. Obviously, itââ?¬â?¢s not without its concerns. Walterââ?¬â?¢s tactics continue to be best described as overly cautious, the team are playing too deep (especially at Ibrox) and the lack of a genuine creative player is all too evident. However, in this bearââ?¬â?¢s opinion, the good far outweighs the bad. Our central defence looks as solid as itââ?¬â?¢s been since the days of Richard Gough. Carlos Cuellar appears to be a better version of Jean-Alain Boumsong and David Weir gives the aura of an experienced teacher lending his skills and discipline to the younger players. Alan Hutton and Allan McGregor continue their development and both being called up by Scotland highlights their consistency. Sasa Papac has also contributed very well to our decent start and while Kirk Broadfoot has been less assured, heââ?¬â?¢s coped well with being thrust into the pressure cauldron of the CL qualifiers at both right and left full back. In midfield, weââ?¬â?¢ve seen much flexibility. Our wide players seem agreeably interchangeable and while creativity is certainly short; we do seem able to enforce our play more effectively in the latter periods of games. Organisation and hard work seems the key here and although frustration can result for the fans, discipline and patience is as much a part of football as gung-ho attack. Kevin Thomson goes from strength to strength; Barry Ferguson and Brahim Hemdani bring their usual composure while DaMarcus Beasley and Nacho Novo have made chances and scored goals from deeper areas. Last and certainly not least, the much maligned signing of Lee McCulloch has shown that the big manââ?¬â?¢s industry and commitment all over the pitch will serve us well for the next 2 years. Up front is less clear at this stage. It appears that all our strikers appear to be struggling with the lone striker role as well as finding an understanding when 2 forwards are actually deployed. Kris Boyd is short of confidence and Jean-Claude Darcheville works hard with few rewards though fortunately, Daniel Cousin has shown that he seems to have the right mix of target-man, pace and finishing qualities to get the nod. Certainly, our conservative outlook to our tactics and formations hasnââ?¬â?¢t helped the development of our forward line. With time Iââ?¬â?¢m confident that will come. All in all, our signings have started well enough and while their reputations are mainstream rather than spectacular, we should be encouraged at how theyââ?¬â?¢ve gelled quickly and helped attain this decent start. Not to mention the likes of Webster, Whittaker and Gow who have not yet had their chance to impress. Off the pitch, well, weââ?¬â?¢ll start with investment first. The playing squad needed Ã?£10million spent on it and we seem to be approaching that figure. Indeed, Iââ?¬â?¢d imagine qualification for the CL Group Stage will see another 2 signings. A much needed creative influence (despite the returning Buffel) and another left-back (if the rumours about Stevie Smithââ?¬â?¢s lack of progress are to be believed) should be the main targets. While none of us have reason to trust David Murray, he does deserve praise for belatedly matching the supportââ?¬â?¢s ambitions. One just wonders why this didnââ?¬â?¢t happen last summer. Perhaps, given PLGââ?¬â?¢s poor transfer market performance, itââ?¬â?¢s just as well for our finances he didnââ?¬â?¢t receive the same kind of kitty. Unfortunately, the spectre of sectarianism reared its ugly head again 2 weeks past. While the matter was again sensationalised and exaggerated by parts the media, it was good to see the Rangers fans (via the Trust, Assembly and Association) unequivocally condemn the minority of yobs with the offensive add-ons. Given the progress our wonderful support has already made in the battle against bigotry, Iââ?¬â?¢ve no doubt weââ?¬â?¢ll continue to show our detractors that we can win this war and give those of other clubs who have similar problems food for thought in their own fights. Thus, with the club AGM being held next Thursday, the board will be feeling a bit more confident of facing the shareholders. Let them not rest on their laurels though. Much improvement is still required at the club and 5 good results and even CL qualification should not hide that. Whilst this article urges a positive outlook, the chairman and the board of directors must invoke further decisive change at our club. Firstly, changes at board level must be sought. The debt has risen again and some directors appear bereft of ideas to change this. John McLelland, Dave King and Alistair Johnston should be doing much more to innovate, invest and improve all aspects of the club. If they canââ?¬â?¢t, itââ?¬â?¢s time they were replaced. We have several talented high net worth fans here in Scotland who have shown through their own business operations that they can provide this outlook. Are they ready to step up to the plate? Similarly, itââ?¬â?¢s imperative that the club appoints a fan to the board at last. While reasonable dialogue has been ongoing in recent times, rhetoric and open-ended commitments must be turned into real supportersââ?¬â?¢ representation. A democratically elected executive board member is an important stage to the fans being more involved in the decision-making of the future. Given our tremendous loyalty and unwavering financial commitment of the last 135 years, our rightful place at the table must be offered. Other challenges remain as well. Our PR continues to be well below average and our marketing and branding unacceptably poor despite the financial considerations of the JJB deal. We must also consolidate on our under 19s successes of last year and look to improve our training facilities and youth system to match the very best in the world. If Hibs can bring through and make millions on young Scottish talent, then so can we. Rangers are the world most successful club ââ?¬â?? do we want to keep that proud record? Thus itââ?¬â?¢s from the top of the league and off the back of a good home result against a dangerous Red Star team that I issue this rallying call. Yes, letââ?¬â?¢s ensure the relevant questions about the running of the club are still asked vociferously. Yes, letââ?¬â?¢s ensure the players (new and old) are aware of what we expect from them. Yes, letââ?¬â?¢s ensure the manager is constructively criticised to aid improvement. But, letââ?¬â?¢s start to look forward ââ?¬â?? not back. If we donââ?¬â?¢t do that, we start to put the positives in shadow, the light will fail and the vultures will circle again. Rangers are the proudest, most successful team in Scotland. Our fans are second to none ââ?¬â?? to none ââ?¬â?? and we seem to be emerging from a dark, dark time slowly but surely. None of us want to repeat the last couple of years. We want a brighter future and we want to be the best. Letââ?¬â?¢s show it by being positive and concentrating not on the negatives but by doing what we do best ââ?¬â?? being loyal; being proud; being steadfast and being supportive. We are the people!

Was getting the bus along PRW yesterday around 2:40PM and as usual the bus was rammed full of Rangers fans making their way to the game. As the bus stopped outside The Swallow Hotel, a few Bears (including our party) alighted to walk down to Ibrox. As we were alighting the bus, guess what stepped forward? Yes, a family of MOPES all bedecked in green and grey hoops. Now, no one said anything to the MOPES and as we got of the bus, I watched to see if anything untoward happened. It was then that my flabber was well and truly gasted. Instead of going into a house (as I thought they would) the family of MOPES crossed the road and jumped on a bus back into town. So, they had obviously gotten on our bus knowing that it would be full of Bears just to see if they would get a reaction ââ?¬â?? they are not normal cretins. Anyhoo, that was not the amusing incidentââ?¬Â¦ As they got up to leave the bus, a couple of English woman who were sitting near them said as they past, ââ?¬Ë?Didnââ?¬â?¢t know it was fancy dress todayââ?¬â?¢Ã¢â?¬Â¦ ;-) So a question to those Bears out there with kids, would you take them on a bus to The Cesspit (via the Gallowgate) on a match-day decked in Rangers regalia? Cammy F ââ?¬â?? You Couldnââ?¬â?¢t Make Them Up Loyal RSC

I think we're all more than aware of the concerns of many of the Rangers fans when it comes to the reporting of certain issues by the media. Sometimes, these concerns are extremely valid and on occasion not so obvious or correct. Certainly, Rangers themselves, as well as the fans and players, haven't helped themselves in this regard. From players writing *** autographs; to the club taking too long to instigate positive dialogue with the fans; to the fans (or at least a small minority of them) still wanting to imbibe our great songs with daft add-ons - there have been many reasons why our media coverage isn't as positive as it could be. Certainly, we can have no complaint when we let ourselves down so damn easily. However, one does detect a small change over the last few days... 1. I have never seen the Rangers support (at large) react so strongly to a few idiots letting us down. I think the '*** Brigade' may find their attempts thwarted in the future to be foolish within our excellent away support. 2. Graham Spiers and Jim Traynor - strong opponents of sectarianism and some may say selective in their crusades - have admitted that Derry's Walls and the Sash are not offensive per se and we should not be challenged if these songs are sung correctly. 3. The new Scottish Executive administration have at last admitted the whole sectarianism campaign is over-publicised and no where near as bad as some commentators would have us believe. 4. The club have admitted their PR has to be better and after initial MediaHouse work on improving our overall image, they are now supposedly working upon a different strategy when it comes to lies, half-truths and rumour-mongering amongst the Fourth Estate. 5. Our manager, after being disrespected by one such mischief-maker, left him (and his employers) in no doubt that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated by him. All the above shows that the Rangers support can achieve results when we feel hard done by. This is not to say we don't deserve criticism or negative stories - we often do and one would never suggest we don't - but it's good to know that we can work towards helping ensure the media do report accurately, do report fairly and if they don't our club takes action. We've had a very positive start to the season bears. A few decent results (if unspectacular), a few decent signings (if also unspectacular) and despite the problems at Inverness, this issue may well turn in our favour. As such, what this shows, is that when united, the Rangers fans (together with the club) can help turn around our fortunes. Yes, we still have many problems and many challenges ahead of us, but is it me or is the sun shining that wee bit brighter this morning...? WATP

Following the game at Inverness and subsequent media coverage, the Trust wishes to make its position on the relevant issues absolutely clear. Firstly, we would like to stress that the Club and the vast majority of the support condemn the wreckless self-indulgence of a small minority of supporters. This conduct helps the enemies of the Club by offering them an easy target, allowing them to perpetuate the lie that most Rangers fans are bigots. The Trust again asks those who genuinely care about Rangers to consider how their conduct is perceived. Abusing the Pope and using the ââ?¬Ë?fââ?¬â?¢ word are obvious examples of behaviour which will ultimately see Rangers FC fined and drastically punished. Over the summer Trust representatives met with the Amalgamation of Northern Ireland Supporters Clubs, the Irish Football Association and political representatives who offered practical advice on the key issues. Elected Assembly member Gregory Campbell, a Rangers fan of long-standing, commented that he supported legitimate cultural expression but stressed that the vast and overwhelming majority of the Unionist community rejected support for terrorism or sectarianism in any form. We support that view. This issue highlights the clear and obvious need for the Club and the support to sit down together and identify precisely what is and isnââ?¬â?¢t acceptable behaviour. The Trust unequivocally deplores bigotry, racism and sectarianism but will challenge attempts to criminalise legitimate expressions of identity and culture. The fact that members of the chattering classes find these songs distasteful is unfortunate but ultimately irrelevant. Secondly, we deplore the sensationalist nature of much of this weekendââ?¬â?¢s media coverage, much of which amounted to deliberate distortion. For instance, media commentators suggesting either ââ?¬Ë?The Sashââ?¬â?¢ or ââ?¬Ë?Derryââ?¬â?¢s Wallsââ?¬â?¢ are ââ?¬Ë?sectarianââ?¬â?¢ are pursuing their own political agenda. Neither of these songs could offend any decent-minded person and we challenge anyone to point out sectarian words within either song. Finally, the Trust remains willing to play a full and active part in tackling the root causes of bigotry and sectarianism. Our view is that these problems are centuries old and not the result of a few football supporters singing songs during the football season. It will take more than finger-wagging to resolve these issues: unless we take into account behaviour and values within society as a whole, including politics, education and cultural factors, nothing of value will ultimately be achieved. http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=130&Itemid=1

Chelsea's Frank Lampard has hailed Rangers fans as 'awesome' after Saturday's friendly at Ibrox. Although an almost full-strength Chelsea side suffered their first pre-season loss in Glasgow, going down 2-0 to late goals from Nacho Novo and Filip Sebo, Lampard described the occasion as the best friendly he has been involved in after being blown away by the home crowd. The England international said: "The Rangers fans were awesome, all the lads were talking about it. "The reception I got when I went to take corners during the game, and after when we were going off, was really nice. "They certainly love their own team, but it was very special to get that welcome. It was amazing really, and a very good game to play in for us, certainly the best friendly we've had. Next up for Rangers is their Champions League second round qualifier against Montenegrin champions Zeta and Lampard believes Walter Smith's men can see off the minnows and negotiate their way through a third qualifying round to make the lucrative group stages of the competition. "With that kind of backing from their crowd, they will be hard to beat. And I expect to see Rangers in the Champions League," Lampard said. Says it all. Wasnt at the game. Watched it pished on holiday. All i have heard is how good the fans were! Pat on the back to those who were there! WATP

we might have expected some of the new players to make positive comments about there being such a large crowd for friendlies - but perhaps the comments of darcheville and ceullar were more positive than expected. i mean, they thought the atmosphere at the games was excellent, so they're going to be in for a shock come old firm day (though less so ceullar who's played against us in europe). but even our next oppponent's manager, who has no need to be particularly concerned or unconcerned about atmosphere said: so perhaps we're not so bad after all. :cheers: to us. to our detractors.

If any further evidence was required that the people who run (or ruin) or club hate us, we were given some fine nuggets from Scott, Jardine and more dissapointingly, Ally McCoist over the last 2 days. The latest anti-sectarian release from Ibrox was a monumental own goal and Ally, if you really think that us, Rangers fans, should act more like Tims then you have dropped in my estimations. I'll leave you with quotes (todays Herald) from another Rangers 'legend' and Murray LAPDOPG Sany Jardine ; "When I came here in 1964, we had no Catholics," he said. "Not just the playing staff, anywhere. There was no bit of paper, it was an unwritten rule. David Murray changed that and it moved on significantly in 1989 when Maurice Johnston signed. You cannot clear up 80 years of sectarianism in eight months, but we are a huge way down the road." ---------------------------------------- Wise up Bears, we need to eject this regime and we need to eject it NOW. Cammy F

I'll come clean immediately - I'm a timposter, but not one to deliberately wind anybody up, although I do like a good debate. I'm intrigued by the media treatment of Naismith's possible transfers to Rangers. This may not reflect the views on here or amongst other Rangers fans. If you were NOT selling your house which you thought was worth, let's say �£200,000, and you were initially offered �£40,000 and after three more offers �£75,000 now and the possibility of �£75,000 later depending on certain conditions, would you sell? The precise figures may not be quite right, but I'm sure you get the drift. PS Good site.

http://www.rangerssupporterstrust.co.uk/rstsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=121&Itemid=1 he Trust would like to thank all the Rangers fans who attended Saturday's presentation and family day at the Wee Rangers Club. The attendance was superb and it was great to see members and non-members alike enjoying a great day for the family at the premier Rangers entertainment venue. All the kids enjoyed the presence of Broxi-Bear and the face-paining while the parents enjoyed the ââ?¬Ë?refreshmentsââ?¬â?¢ and the opportunity to meet and talk with three Rangers Legends. Johnny Hubbard and Billy Simpson were both presented with Honorary Memberships of the RST on the day and it was fantastic to see fellow team-mate Ian McColl turn out to support their presentation. "It is always nice to be recognised by the fans and at times like this it is a big reminder of how special it is to have played for a club like Rangers," smiled Billy. "A lot of water has passed under the bridge since I last played for the club but the label 'Billy Simpson of Rangers' is one I have always worn with pride. The past few years might not have been the best for the club but, with organisations like the Rangers Supporters Trust, we won't be down for too long. "The fans are the lifeblood of Rangers and, no matter who is in control in the boardroom, he will have to answer to the guys who go along week after week, at home or away. I will always regard myself as a Rangers man and I am one hundred per cent behind the work of the Rangers Supporters Trust." Weââ?¬â?¢d also like to take this opportunity to thank the Wee Rangers Club for their continued support as well as Rangers FC for bringing back Broxi-Bear from his holidays to play with the younger fans.

Would love him to come back, that was another mistake by Le Tit, by not keeping him

http://www.gersnetonline.net/newsite/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=422&Itemid=2 At last, after much rhetoric over the last few years, the SPL (in conjunction with the SFA*) is to officially introduce wide-ranging rules to combat anti-social behaviour at matches from next season. The new legislation, to be included in its constitution from August 1st, will include tough new penalties for offenders. These will include fines, annulling and replaying of fixtures, deduction of points, closing all or part of a stadium and playing matches behind closed doors, withholding the title and, ultimately, expulsion from the league. Tough talking then from the authorities - however the question remains in that what exactly is anti-social behaviour? Obviously it rightly includes sectarianism. Over the last few years Rangers fans especially have been vilified for such behaviour. Chants of *** and the use of the word ââ?¬Ë?******ââ?¬â?¢ have been challenged and, for the most part, wiped out in an admirable years work by the Rangers support. Being fined by UEFA in 2006 finally made the majority of the Rangers support appreciate that a small cross section were letting us (and our club) down by using outdated chants to bore other fans with non-football related nonsense. One unfortunate incident in Spain earlier this year brought the issue again to the fore and since then the Rangers support have worked together to ââ?¬Ë?self-policeââ?¬â?¢. The results have been magnificent and although weââ?¬â?¢ll have to continue to work not to allow any small minority to let us down, our support deserves a lot of praise for reacting to the criticism (from the media and the authorities) so quickly and so well. Just a pity you wonââ?¬â?¢t read about it any time soon from the people who wanted the improvement. However, no faux praise is required as we should be happy enough with our progress to feel comfortable that the new SPL legislation may not actually worry us more than some of the other teams in the league. What also seems to be included (if you take the Scotsman article below at face value**) is offensive singing generally. Unfortunately, this is where the new legislation will really be tested. Ewing Grahame suggests that songs about ââ?¬Ë?sheep-sh#ggersââ?¬â?¢ will be punished as well as any other ââ?¬Ë?racist, sexist or violent behaviourââ?¬â?¢. This is strange as the Aberdeen fans sing about their selves in that (albeit bizarre) manner and there was little complaint in May when Neil Lennon light-heartedly used the term to describe them as they ruined his farewell speech. A contested term already and we have hardly started analysing the issue! Thus, what else can be considered offensive? ââ?¬Ë?Politicalââ?¬â?¢ songs supporting terrorist organisations will obviously be high on the agenda but will the SFA be expected to ââ?¬Ë?self-policeââ?¬â?¢ the Scotland fans as they sing about Jimmy Hill being a p##f? Will the Hibs fans be in the dock for suggesting some Hearts players may be overly-friendly with their owner? Indeed, will the Edinburgh clubs no longer be able to sing about Glasgow slums when they travel west? Killie fans may also no longer wish to be ââ?¬Ë?up to their knees in Ayr bloodââ?¬â?¢. Just how far will the new rules go? There is obviously a fine line between banter and ill-advised mockery of rival clubsââ?¬â?¢ backgrounds compared to genuine discrimination and prejudice. Ergo, who will decide where the line is drawn? After his embarrassing quotes of last week, can we safely assume it wonââ?¬â?¢t be new ââ?¬Ë?Honorary (sic) Vice-Chairmanââ?¬â?¢ of the SFA John McBeth? Perhaps new Chief Executive Gordon Smith will contribute? Just donââ?¬â?¢t tell the Celtic fans who have started a petition against that particular appointment (what they are doing about Eric Rileyââ?¬â?¢s loyalties isnââ?¬â?¢t known). Thus, itââ?¬â?¢s vital for the credibility of any new rules that they are set out clearly beforehand. If the authorities are serious about the problem, the education of the problem fans should initially be paramount before condemnation and punishment. What songs are offensive? What chants are not acceptable? What is the punishment? Who decides? Will the fans be consulted and represented? Where do the stewards and police fit in? For this to work we have to be made aware of the banned terms and the penalties awaiting any breach. What is also clear is for the legislation to be a success is that all Scottish clubs must take the directive on board and act accordingly. The Rangers support are still imperfect but their actions so far in terms of admitting they have a problem while combating it strongly via the fans working with the club are actions worthy of imitation by any other club that may face similar future problems. What hasnââ?¬â?¢t been so encouraging is that while the Rangers fans have been acting positively; other supports have continued to plead their innocence from the moral high ground. Will the fans be able to rise above judgements based on one-upmanship? Or can we expect some supports to continue to be more eager to have others punished instead of facing their own problems? Can we rely on the media to be neutral in their approach or will we continue to see the irresponsible reporting that continues to increase tension instead of alleviating it? Judgement Day is almost upon us. Scottish football can either lead the way in dealing with offensive behaviour or the whole issue could prove to make us a laughing stock. Can football really show society and the politicians how to remove anti-social behaviour from our country? Or will this be another case of all talk and no substance while flawed legislation ruins our game? At this stage there are still far too many questions and not enough answers. The clock is ticking.... * - http://www.scottishfa.co.uk/news.cfm?newsid=2999 ** - http://sport.scotsman.com/football.cfm?id=866752007