Rangers have confirmed the reason for the Union Bears' absence from their Scottish Cup tie against Raith Rovers today.

The fans' group boycotted this afternoon's match, which Michael Beale's side won comfortably.

Their absence was noted by the TV cameras, as Viaplay revealed the group were standing within the vicinity of the stadium outside.

It was understood that the Union Bears opted to vacate their section of the Broomloan Stand due to the confiscation of a banner.

The club has confirmed this, stating they refused an offensive banner to be brought into Ibrox by the Union Bears.

A Rangers spokesperson said: “Rangers refused to allow an offensive banner relating to the police service to be displayed at today’s match. 

“The Union Bears elected to absent themselves from the stadium because the Club would not permit the offensive anti-police banner display.”

More to follow.

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