Michael Beale insists Rangers fan protests against the board make things more difficult for his team on the park despite watching his side run out 4-2 winners over 10-man Motherwell in a Fir Park thriller.
The match kicked off as the travelling fans in Lanarkshire ramped up their bid to force out sporting director Ross Wilson and managing director Stewart Robertson. Beale admits he understands supporters feelings and that it was impossible not to be aware of the strength of feeling with fans holding up flyers in the away section.
Motherwell took the lead early on through Kevin van Veen before James Tavernier - with his 98th goal for the club - levelled. Fashion Sakala netted early in the second half with Todd Cantwell and Malik Tillman also getting in on the scoring act against the Steelmen, who had Callum Slattery sent off. Beale told Sky Sports after the match when asked about the protests: “It’s impossible not to be aware of it - it’s so there.
The fans are voicing their frustrations. At this moment in time they have a team that’s getting results. Lots of players are taking part in that and we’re trying to move forward and improve.
“I want everyone to stay together because we’re a stronger a club when we are together. I understand the frustrations of the fans. They pay their money and fill out every home and away game. They’re free to voice their opinion but as the manager I think there’s more things to be positive about and I’d like everyone to support the team on the pitch. I understand it but it’s difficult at times for the team when we come here today and it’s a big away performance we’re looking for.”
Gers now go into the International break on the back of another win and Beale admits they can use the time to progress contract talks with Alfredo Morelos, Ryan Jack and Ryan Kent all expiring in the summer. He said: “We’ll give the players a few days now to relax with their families and one or two will go on international duty but it gives us time to have a few conversations in-house and hopefully move forward on a few things.”
