The Union Bears have issued a response to Rangers following their absence from today's game.

The fan group opted to boycott the club's Scottish Cup quarter-final tie against Raith Rovers. 

Michael Beale's side ran out easy 3-0 winners as they booked their spot at Hampden for the semis.

The main headline of the day was the Union Bears' absence in the stands, with the atmosphere somewhat lacking inside the ground.

Rangers confirmed that the club had confiscated a banner from the group relating to "offensive" messaging regarding the police prior to the game. 

The Union Bears then elected not to attend the match as a result. Now, they have hit back at the club. 

A statement reads: "Union Bears had planned to display various legitimate message banners at today's match highlighting different issues surrounding our club and support.

READ MORE: Union Bears boycott Rangers vs Raith Rovers Scottish Cup clash

"Prior to the match, Police Scotland and Rangers FC jointly removed these materials without our knowledge and blocked access to regular matchday materials.

"From Rangers FC, this is a clear breakdown of trust and an attempt to silence our group's valid concerns. As a consequence, we made the difficult decision to remove active support and not enter the ground as a group.

"This attempt to suppress the feelings amongst the Rangers support will not be successful, and only stands to confirm the concerns that the fans hold."

The group also posed with a banner reading: "Ross Wilson, director of failure."

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.”

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