Rangers women's coach Craig McPherson has broken his silence on the incident that saw him appear to headbutt Celtic women's manager Fran Alonso.
The 1-1 women's derby ended in chaos as the post-match scenes were marred by McPherson's act of aiming an apparent headbutt from behind at Alonso who revealed in the process he was called a 'little rat'. Caitlin Hayes’ strike nine minutes into added time meant the Glasgow sides shared the points before the flashpoint at full time led to a full-on scuffle on the pitch as players and coaches from both benches reacted.
Rangers man McPherson facing a disciplinary hearing at the SFA and Police Scotland launching an investigation in to the incident. Now the coach has issued an apology over his actions, claiming he has 'let himself and the club down'. He also revealed he was grateful to Alonso for accepting his apology.
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He said: "I would like to offer a full and unreserved apology for my actions at end of Monday's Old Firm match at Broadwood.
"I know I have severely let myself, our team and the club down. I hold myself to the highest of standards and have never done anything like this before in a long coaching career, and I know I fell way short of that with my actions.
"This club is also built on incredibly high standards, and I have already apologised to the board, the football staff, and our fantastic group of players who I care about dearly. I would also like to apologise to the Rangers fans as I am aware of what a privilege it is to represent this club in any capacity, and I am sorry that on this occasion I did not uphold the standards this club demands.
"I also understand how exciting a time it is for the women's game in Scotland, which I have come to care passionately about, and I apologise for any negativity my actions have brought in our attempts to grow the game. Finally, I am also very grateful to Fran Alonso for accepting my apology in full following our lengthy conversation earlier in the week.
"I will also apologise to the Scottish FA at my hearing and will, of course, accept in full, whatever punishment they deem appropriate. I simply want to apologise today, convey my massive regret and explain how out of character this moment has been for me."
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