Rangers fans group The Union Bears have vacated their section at Ibrox in a protest after the removal of banners for the quarter final clash.
In last Saturday's match at home to Kilmarnock in the Premiership, they aimed a banner at the Govan hierarchy, claiming they have taken their 'eye off the ball' in the wake of title 55 almost two years ago. Emotions have run high since their Viaplay Cup final defeat to Celtic and they also trail their rivals by nine points in the Scottish Premiership.
As Rangers kicked off in their Scottish Cup quarter-final with Raith Rovers, it became apparent that the usually loud Union Bears area of the Broomloan Stand was empty. And Record Sport understands that this in protest against the removal of banners for the game. This was also picked up on live TV coverage of the game as the home side went to take a corner next to the travelling Raith fans.
Viaplay cameras panned to the empty section of the stand, when commentator Rory Hamilton said: "There is the rather empty area where the Union Bears usually bit. We do understand they are the vicinity of the stadium, just outside."
The fans’ group have instead congregated outside Ibrox. Manager Michael Beale recently called for unity from supporters but it appears his plea has been ignored.
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