I’ve been dreading writing this. For my own sanity I will be keeping this short. The day I went to Ibrox was part one of a double header between Aberdeen and Rangers. The Glasgow side were trailing the Dons in the table but if they won both games would go above them. I am hating writing this already. If you are unaware at this point Aberdeen were beaten in this game and when it is against your fiercest rivals it is even worse.
The Stadium
Ibrox is actually quite a nice stadium, I will give them that. The pitch is close and the four separate stands set up is something that appeals to me. I always see Ibrox as a mini Westfalenstadion (Borussia Dortmund).As with any Aberdeen Rangers game the police presence was ridiculous. I find the whole football violence thing a bit childish and people on both sides really need to grow up. Having to be escorted to the turnstiles really is a sad state of affairs, I know it is needed but why can’t we just leave violence out of it and enjoy the beautiful game. The Main Stand at Ibrox, now the Bill Struth Stand, dates back to the 1920s and still retains the old red brick work. It has three tiers and really stands out within the ground. However, rumours about it crumbling are a pity to hear especially as Rangers don’t seem to have the funds to renovate it. Away fans, apart from Celtic supporters, are housed in a small corner between the Govan and Broomloan stands. It really is a terrible place for away fans as the home supporters often launch their half-time refreshments our way. On the day I visited the Dons fans had the pleasure of dodging a glass vapour rub tub being thrown at us. Oh, the joys. Opposite the away fans and behind the other goal is the Copland Road Stand, again a two tiered stand which is the same height as the Broomloan and Govan stands. The Copland Stand will always bring back bad memories for me as I was in the front row for the Scottish Cup semi-final against St Johnstone when Stevie May destroyed Aberdeen. Cheers Stevie!
The Match
Rangers won 3-0. Aberdeen were beyond shite. That is all.
The Mug
No mug this week.
The End…kinda
This game was billed as the “best of the rest” match. That day Rangers were streets ahead of the Dons and fully deserved their victory. However, they like Celtic raise their game against Aberdeen yet the Dons fail to do so against the two “Glasgow giants”. Maybe it is a failing of our manager but I wouldn’t get rid of him for anyone…maybe Fergie. Aberdeen have finished second behind Celtic the last couple of years and I think they will do again. Rangers have improved on last season but the Dons haven’t even got going yet. I can see them going on a long undefeated run again and finishing about 6 to 9 points ahead of the Ibrox club.
Fact: King George V visited Ibrox in 1917, to thank Rangers for its efforts in World War I.
Price: £28
Attendance: 48, 647
The Forty Two 
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