RANGERS fans who have made their way to Macedonia for a crunch Europa League qualifier have received a pre-match warning by embassy officials that if they are drunk they will be banned from Shkupi’s Cair Stadium.
The warning has been treated with humour by fans after videos were posted of Rangers fans partying and singing in bars in preparation for the second leg match against FK Shkupi of Macedonia. Rangers are taking a 2-0 lead into the game.
The British Embassy in Skopje issued the warning amongst a series of social media advisories as an estimated 700 fans were estimated to have made the 3,926-mile round trip.
That's despite an announcement in June from the club that saidthey are unable to offer fans travel to their Europa league qualifier with their official travel partner Thomas Cook Sport.
The embassy said: "Rangers Fans - Anyone who is obviously drunk won't be allowed into the stadium."
But what might have been routine advice, was treated with some humour and also some disdain from fans.
How obvious does it need to be? pic.twitter.com/T6fujPVnm8
— Mr M (@MBS1872) July 17, 2018
One said: "I'm assuming you're wanting an empty stadium then?"
Colin Stewart said: "Oh dear!!! Coffee... now... everyone."
Another said: "Shut up ya f***ies! We're Glasgow Rangers!! We'll do what we want."
The Ibrox club's opponents are based in Skopje, finished fourth in the Macedonian First Division and are competing in Europe for the first time.
The club said in June that the "limited aircraft available has led to huge cost implications, which the club and Thomas Cook Sport have agreed is not fair or feasible on this occasion".
The three-year travel partnership was announced just ten days ago.
When the deal was announced the club said Thomas Cook Sport will provide the club with "official supporter travel products for domestic and European games, as well as travel for the first team".
Rangers fans in Macedonia ahead of tomorrows Europa League clash
— AwayDaysBible (@AwayDaysBible3) July 16, 2018
Credit: @ PolmontRSC #WATP pic.twitter.com/lKJRelFxOA
Rangers fans unveiling their Atomic Kitten cover in Macedonia tonight (Via @PolmontRSC)... pic.twitter.com/WQep2lmc73
— talkingbaws.com (@talkingbawscom) July 16, 2018
The embassy has also warned Rangers fans, who will be seated in West Sector that access to the stadium can be slow and that there will be ticket checks and body searches at three check points before entrance to the stadium.
Weapons, flares, fireworks, alcohol, cans, glass, bottle tops and coins are not allowed in the stadium.
But beer in plastic containers will be available in the ground.
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