The darkest day: Ibrox Disaster victims remembered on the 50th anniversary

John Greig paying his respects outside Ibrox

Fans who lost their lives in the Ibrox Disaster were remembered yesterday on the 50th anniversary of the tragedy.

Sixty six supporters, including 31 under the age of 20, lost their lives at the ground on January 2, 1971 in a crush on Stairway 13 at the end of an Old Firm derby.

Rangers captain James Tavernier leads his team out with a wreath

The teams faced each other at the stadium yesterday and, before the match, Rangers legend John Greig – captain on the day of the disaster – placed a wreath at the memorial outside the ground, beside a bank of flowers and messages left by fans.

The club said: “The memory of the supporters who passed away in 1971, plus the supporters who passed away in earlier Ibrox tragedies, have a special place in the club’s history.”

💙 #AlwaysRemembered pic.twitter.com/Dyef38Ky8f

— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) January 2, 2021

John Greig spoke of his memories of that day, saying: “It affected so many people, the fans are the lifeblood of this club and I think it’s only right and proper that the club recognises this date every year. I known this year is a special year, but really it’s a special year for everybody.”

Rangers and Celtic captains James Tavernier and Callum McGregor carried wreaths with their club’s colours on to the pitch before the game, which Rangers won 1-0.

John Greig, Ian Bankier, Douglas Park and Stewart Robertson pay their respects

John Greig leads Rangers and Celtic directors in the laying of wreaths

Both sets of players wore black armbands and the words “Always Remembered” were embroidered on Rangers’ kits for the game.

The club said: “Before the impact of the pandemic took hold, we had planned to hold a service that would be similar in style and scale to the one held at Glasgow Cathedral in 1971.

“However, as there are no options that allow us to be completely inclusive of all the families, survivors and representatives that should be present at such an occasion, we have decided to postpone a major event until circumstances allow us to hold a service that would reflect the significance and magnitude of the occasion.

“We know how important a service is not only in terms of commemoration but also as a way for families to meet and comfort each other.”