Champions League - Rangers warned over Serbian policing

Eurosport - Wed, 22 Aug 15:28:00 2007

Rangers security chief Kenny Scott has warned that supporters could face hostile policing during next week's match against Red Star Belgrade.
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Rangers face Red Star in Serbia on Tuesday, looking to convert their slender 1-0 advantage from the home leg into an aggregate victory.

A place in the Champions League group stages is at stake, and Scott admits the local police will be wary of possible conflict between supporters.

Scott, the head of safety and security at Rangers, predicted officers would "not be as welcoming" in Belgrade as in the previous round when the Light Blues travelled to Podgorica to face FK Zeta.

He explained: "We have to remember the history of Serbia and their policing is still typically Eastern European, almost militaristic.

"Evidence from Partizan Belgrade's exclusion from the UEFA Cup, shows they are used to dealing with troublesome crowds at football matches.

"With this in mind, the police may anticipate fans engaging in some form of confrontation once together."

Despite making a trip to Belgrade to brief city officials about Rangers' visit, Scott told the Rangers official website: "I expect the local police to continue with their usual procedure and exert a strong control over our fans.

"My best advice to our supporters therefore is basically to follow the police's instructions.

"Even if you feel their directions are inappropriate, once there the best thing is to comply and follow their guidance.

"Unlike in the UK there is no form of complaint against the police in Serbia, which means they are much less accountable for their actions and fans should remember that."