Celtic women’s boss Fran Alonso will tell the police he doesn’t want to press charges against Rangers coach Craig McPherson over the headbutt storm.
Although the cops have opened up an inquiry into the shameful scenes at Broadwood on Monday night when the two Glasgow sides drew 1-1, Record Sport understands Alonso doesn’t want to take the matter to the courts. But it’s believed the Spaniard does want an apology from McPherson who is also alleged to have called him a “little rat”. Celtic went on record to express their disgust while Alonso kept a dignified silence.
The SFA are unlikely to be as lenient as the Hoops manager, though. SFA compliance officer Martin Black has been alerted to the events that marred the game which was beamed live on Sky Sports - the first time a SWPL has been screened live by the broadcaster - and while the incident has not been fast-tracked, the international break this week should accelerate the process.
Alonso appeared to be headbutted from behind by the Rangers coach just seconds after Caitlin Hayes had scored in the ninth minute of added time and with virtually the last kick of the ball.
The on-pitch flashpoint sparked fury from the Parkhead giants who through a spokesperson said: “Clearly this is a hugely concerning incident, falling well below any acceptable standard. We understand the matter is now being investigated and it will be up to all relevant authorities to take any appropriate action.”
It is understood that Celtic women’s manager Fran Alonso will not seek to press charges against Rangers assistant manager Craig McPherson after Police Scotland opened up an inquiry into events at the full-time whistle on Monday’s 1-1 draw at Broadwood.
Rangers manager Malky Thomson said after the game on Monday evening that the events would be investigated but there was no official comment from the Ibrox club.
The SWPL are probing the event and a statement: “The SWPL is aware of an incident following last night’s [Monday] Rangers v Celtic match. This incident is currently being investigated by Police Scotland and the Scottish FA. The SWPL will not make any further comment at this time, whilst these investigations are ongoing.”
Former referee Steve Conroy suggested a lifetime ban is the only fitting punishment for the behaviour. He said: “It is appalling. He should be instantly removed from his post and banned for life. There is absolutely no mitigation for that. He gave it forethought & should pay the full price for it. It’s embarrassing that the first SWPL game to be shown live on Sky Sports is grabbing headlines for all the wrong reasons.
“This is simply thuggish behaviour, and the man involved should face the full consequences. We are trying to get rid of all forms of aggression and intimidation in football from grassroots upwards. This must be dealt with in the appropriate way.”
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