Rangers Women coach Craig McPherson banned for six games following headbutt on Celtics Fran Alons

Rangers Women coach Craig McPherson has received a six-game ban from the Scottish FA following his headbutt on Celtic manager Fran Alonso.

McPherson, 52, approached Alonso at full-time after the 1-1 Old Firm draw on March 27 as Celtic celebrated a 99th minute equaliser.

He has already apologised to Alonso for the incident and said he would accept whatever punishment the SFA deemed appropriate.

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Following an SFA hearing on Thursday, McPherson has been banned for six matches for a charge under disciplinary rule 77 – related to improper behaviour and violent conduct.

Police have an investigation ongoing into the incident.

In a statement released following the incident, McPherson said: “I would like to offer a full and unreserved apology for my actions at the end of Monday’s Old Firm match at Broadwood.

“I know I have severely let myself, our team and the club down. I hold myself to the highest of standards and have never done anything like this before in a long coaching career, and I know I fell way short of that with my actions.

“I have already apologised to the board, the football staff and our fantastic group of players, whom I care about dearly. I would also like to apologise to the Rangers fans as I am aware of what a privilege it is to represent this club in any capacity, and I am sorry on this occasion I did not uphold the standards this club demands.

“I also understand how exciting a time it is for the women’s game in Scotland, which I have come to care passionately about, and I apologise for any negativity my actions have brought in our attempts to grow the game.

“I am also very grateful to Fran Alonso for accepting my apology in full following out lengthy conversation earlier in the week. I will also apologise to the Scottish FA at my hearing and will, of course, accept in full whatever punishment they deem appropriate.”

(Photo: Getty Images)

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