Desperate Rangers decide to accuse SPFL of bullying

Rangers have recently had their season resolution thrown out by the Scottish Premiership League board, prompting Rangers to accuse SPFL of bullying.

It is no surprise to Rangers’ intentions during these uncertain times. With the league being suspended due to the novel coronavirus, much uncertainty remains surrounding the outcome or conclusion of the season.

Almost as if on cue, Rangers have tried to take advantage of the climate and uncertainty by trying to maneuver Celtic out of a championship. This was always going to be the playbook if the season was going to be suspended by COVID-19.

However, the resolution that Rangers sent to the SPFL board that would actually not have the season scrapped was tossed out. Interestingly enough, it seems Rangers have changed their tune in regards to how the season would end. Undoubtedly the change in heart surrounds finances (spoiler alert: it does).

Since their resolution was kicked out by the SPFL, Rangers have now released a statement claiming that the SPFL is bullying smaller clubs into voting for their own resolution. Here is the statement in full:

"“Rangers have received confirmation from the SPFL board, that the SPFL’s legal adviser did not deem our Members Resolution as competent.“As a member club, we sought assistance from the SPFL Executive on several occasions yesterday, to ensure our resolution was deemed competent. For the avoidance of doubt, no advice was forthcoming prior to the meeting starting.“Now that the SPFL have belatedly identified the reason why our members resolution was not competent, we will immediately resubmit our resolution, based upon their advice.“If this advice had been forthcoming earlier, we would not have lost valuable time in this process. We are confused as to why attempts have been made to slow the progress of Rangers’ resolution.“Over the last 36 hours, we have received numerous reports from fellow Scottish clubs relating to attempts to coerce and bully them into voting for the SPFL’s own resolution.“We are proud that many fellow clubs will stand strong and not be swayed.“Our resolution was simply intended to urgently address the financial hardship faced by clubs whilst allowing more time to discuss and evaluate all options for completing this season, in line with UEFA advice. This is in the interest of every football club in Scotland and the wider Scottish game.“We trust that when we resubmit our resolution, no impediments will be placed in the way of clubs voting on this matter in a swift manner.”"

Rangers resolution wanted the SPFL to pay out season end payments to clubs based on their current position in the league. These payments would be treated as loans, and would be expected to be repaid.

It also opposes the conclusion of the SPFL and lower leagues which would determine relegation and promotions of clubs. At the end of the day, it is a thinly veiled attempt at acting like they are championing the causes of smaller clubs while advocating for financial assistance for themselves.