Rangers offer refund to fans after floodlight failure cuts Sunderland pre-season clash short

Rangers say they will refund fans after their pre-season meeting with Sunderland in Portugal was plunged into darkness by floodlight failure.

The Scottish Cup winners were trailing 1-0 when a power cut at the Albufeira Municipal Stadium on Saturday evening forced the match to be thrown out at half time.

Hundreds of supporters were in the stadium to watch Giovanni Van Bronckhorst’s side kick off their cinch Premiership preparations against the English Championship side while thousands more tuned in to a live stream of the action through Rangers TV from home.

Club bosses have no pledged to refund all match tickets and fees for those who bought the stream following its unexpected finale.

“The match in Portugal was abandoned at half time due to a stadium floodlight issue,” a statement posted online read.

“Neither Rangers or Sunderland were responsible for the stadium operations and the floodlight failure.

“However, Rangers appreciate the support of our loyal fans and the support they give the team everywhere we go which means everything to us.

“Rangers will refund the ticket cost to all Rangers ticket holders and our supporters that purchased the match on RangersTV.

“Thanks for your continued support.”

The Europa League finalists were a goal down prior to the 40-minute delay which eventually saw the match abandoned.

Luke O’Nien struck after 28 minutes to give the Black Cats a first half lead while new signing Antonio Colak was handed a first start.

Rangers continue their pre-season schedule with a trip to Blackpool next weekend before hosting London duo West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur at Ibrox.