ABUSIVE football fans heading to the Rangers v Manchester United friendly forced two teams to ABANDON their cricket match, clubs have claimed.
Murrayfield DAFS say a ‘combination of sexist, homophobic and racist abuse’ plus TWO alleged assaults led to their fourth team’s fixture with rivals Stewart’s Melville being cut short.
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They also took aim at Police Scotland officers who they claim did ‘absolutely nothing’ and REFUSED to step in following complaints.
The force is now investigating the unsavoury incidents at Roseburn Park, in the shadow of the Scottish Gas Murrayfield.
Gers headed to Edinburgh for a glamour friendly against the Red Devils as part of the English giants’ global pre-season tour which includes fixtures in Norway, Scotland and the USA.
The game ended 2-0 to United but cricketers say they couldn’t finish their own match due to shocking scenes.
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A club statement on X.com explained: “Very upset that our 4th team had to abandon their game today due a combination of sexist, homophobic and racist abuse at Roseburn Park outside Murrayfield Stadium today against @StewMelCC.
“Not only that, there were two instances of physical assault that were perpetrated on players. The perpetrators of said abuse were fans of football clubs playing a friendly at @MurrayfieldStad – and police were standing 50 yards away.
“Two sets of officers did absolutely nothing to prevent or stop any of the events from taking place – and in fact flat our refused to help when pressed by players.
“It’s incredibly sad and desperate that we still have to deal with instances like this.
“A complaint is being drafted to @PoliceScotland and the relevant authorities regarding today.
“We have worked tirelessly to make Roseburn Park a welcoming, all-inclusive venue for cricket – but days like today harm that irreparably – especially when those who can help refuse.”
Opponents Stewart’s Melville – based to the north of the city – added: “The club was very disappointed to learn of the experience suffered by our 4th XI in their match at Roseburn Park versus @MDAFS this afternoon.
“We commend all players on both sides for the manner in which they dealt with an unacceptable situation. We will assist Murrayfield with anything they need with regards to issues experienced today.”
The Scottish Sun has approached Manchester United and Rangers for comment.
But Police Scotland confirmed an investigation was underway.
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A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Officers are carrying out enquiries after reports of abuse being directed towards players during a cricket match at Roseburn Park, Edinburgh on Saturday, 20 July 2024.”
A crowd of 56,574 attended the friendly match – Rangers‘ only Scottish date in pre-season.
Read more on the Scottish Sun
One arrest was made at the football clash when a 21-year-old man was charged in connection with a pyrotechnic offence near the home of Scottish rugby.
United now head to America where they’ll face Arsenal in Los Angeles, followed by Real Betis and Liverpool.
Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page