Rangers manager Michael Beale ordered his team to let Patrick Thistle score after they went ahead with a controversial goal.
During what was a tightly contested Scottish Cup tie, Rangers found themselves behind after Kevin Holt’s penalty in the 35th minute gave Thistle the lead.
In the second half, the match sparked into life after Antonio Colak’s equaliser five minutes from the restart.
In the 71st minute, after Rangers player Malik Tillman went down injured, Holt shaped to knock the ball back to Rangers from a throw-in. At this moment, Tillman nipped in and stole the ball away before rounding the keeper to put Rangers ahead.
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Chaotic scenes followed as Thistle players were absolutely fuming with Tillman’s actions.
After everything calmed down, Rangers boss Beale appeared to instruct his players to let Thistle score an immediate equaliser.
Scott Tiffoney was allowed to wander freely to net but Rangers goalkeeper Allan McGregor was half-heartedly trying to stop the goal as he doesn’t look happy with his manager’s decision. You can watch the whole situation below.
Fans were quick to praise Beale on social media.
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One fan said: “Unbelievable sportsmanship from Michael Beale.”
Another tweeted: “Well done Michael Beale great sportsmanship.”
A third added: “Proud as hell. Well done lads. Credit to Michael Beale for his sportsmanship.”
Someone else wrote: “Fair play to Beale there lot more respect for him after that.”
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Whilst a fifth person said: “Just heard about the goings on at Ibrox. Credit where credits due. Michael Beale showing good sportsmanship.”
Rangers eventually had the last laugh as a late goal by James Sands sealed a 3-2 victory and a place in the next round of the competition.
Next up for Rangers will be a Scottish Premiership clash against Livingston as they look to chase league leaders Celtic, who are currently nine points clear at the top of the table.
Marcus Chan