Rangers 'expect investigation' after Aberdeen fans appear to mock Ibrox disaster at Pittodrie

Rangers have said they are “appalled” and expect an investigation after claiming opposition supporters mocked the Ibrox disaster at Pittodrie on Sunday.

Danny Röhl’s side made it five wins in a row to close the gap on Scottish Premiership leaders Hearts with a 2-0 victory over Aberdeen at the weekend.

In a tension-filled clash, the second match between the sides within a week, midfielder Nicolas Raskin appeared to get involved in a confrontation with a fan at full-time.

The Glasgow side has now released a statement slamming the “abhorrent behaviour” of the opposition support after footage shared on social media appears to show a group of men mocking the Ibrox disaster.

One appeared to make a diving gesture with his hands, while another, wearing a red mask, held out his phone with the number 71 on the screen, the year of the disaster.

The 1971 Ibrox disaster was a crush among the crowd on an exit stairway at an Old Firm football game that led to the deaths of 66 people.

Rangers have said that they expect those responsible to be “dealt with appropriately”.

A Rangers spokesperson said: “We are appalled that once again opposition supporters have mocked the Ibrox Disaster, the darkest day in our history.

“Such behaviour is abhorrent and has previously resulted in a criminal conviction, underlining the seriousness of this issue.

“It was only a few weeks ago, that the club came together with families and survivors to remember those who lost their lives that day.

“The club expects the relevant authorities to investigate the matter fully and for those responsible to be dealt with appropriately.”

Police Scotland and Aberdeen FC have been contacted for comment.

Last year, during an Old Firm clash, a man was caught on camera appearing to mock the disaster.

Darren Malloch, 35, pleaded guilty to conducting himself in a disorderly manner during the 1-1 draw at Ibrox Stadium on May 4 last year.

Malloch – who was previously a project manager at Advance Construction Scotland – lost his job after the company received a string of complaints, was banned from football matches for 14 months, and was fined £520.