Rangers fans gathered in George Square in Glasgow after the final whistle blew on the team’s nail-biting Europa League final with Frankfurt. The team lost 5-4 on penalties after a tense 120 minutes had finished 1-1.
Around 150,000 fans were estimated to have travelled to Seville to watch the match, which ended in disappointment. But for those left behind, the mood on the streets of Glasgow was still jubilant despite the defeat.
One fan said following the match: “They did us proud. We did really well and that’s what matters. You can’t ask for more than what they did. In life, you get defeated. If it wasn’t going to be this game it would be the next game.
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Another fan, Chris Strong, made his way into Glasgow from Stirling. He said: “Look at the supporters. It’s been buzzing. If you weren’t here, what would you be doing?
“It takes time. It took us 14 years.”
Small groups of fans took to George Square following the match and remained buoyant. Statues in the area had been barricaded and memorial benches packed away in anticipation of crowds of fans making their way into the city centre.
Politicians including Anas Sarwar and Douglas Ross were among those to send commiserations to the team. Scottish Labour leader Mr Sarwar said: “What a tremendous effort by Rangers. While the loss in the final will hurt, they should be proud of the incredible journey.”
Scottish Conservative leader Mr Ross said Rangers “deserved to win”. He tweeted: “Well played Rangers. Not the result you deserved but you did Scottish football proud this evening.”
Things looked optimistic after Joe Aribo scored the first goal in the 57th minute. However, following a tense half hour of extra time and a penalty shoot-out, Frankfurt clinched the title.
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