Ibrox hosts West Ham stalemate in Rangers’ pre-season finale
Rangers conclude pre-season with draw
Rangers concluded their pre-season schedule with a 0-0 draw against West Ham United at Ibrox Stadium. The match, played on Sunday, 26 July 2026, served as the final preparation for Rangers before their league campaign commences.
The fixture saw both teams aiming for an improved performance compared to the previous season. New head coach Derek McInnes is looking to address the team’s previous season’s difficulties, which included four defeats in their final five games, leading to their title hopes diminishing.
The summer transfer window has brought several new players to Ibrox, including Lawrence Shankland, Dan Neil, and Vanja Dragojevic, all of whom were captains at their former clubs. These additions are part of an effort to strengthen the squad and instill a new sense of confidence.
One of the new arrivals, Cammy Devlin, made an impact during the game, building on his previous performance against Saint-Etienne. The midfielder demonstrated considerable energy and commitment, particularly in the first half, contributing to Rangers‘ best chance of the period.
Devlin‘s efforts led to him winning a tackle approximately 30 yards from goal, subsequently passing to Mohamed Diomande. Diomande‘s attempt from distance, however, was described as tame. Dan Neil, another summer signing, replaced Devlin at half-time as part of multiple changes made by McInnes.
Despite the changes, the second half did not see a significant increase in pace, though Diomande had a close-range header and Konstantinos Mavropanos of West Ham produced a powerful drive. The match ultimately ended without either side scoring.
Matchday information for supporters
Supporters attending the match were advised of various logistical details for entry and parking at Ibrox Stadium. Turnstiles opened at 14:30 for the 16:00 kick-off. E-tickets and QR codes were used for stadium entry, with season ticket smartcards not active for this particular fixture.
Due to an increased ticket allocation for West Ham United fans, entry to the Broomloan Stand was expected to take longer than usual. Supporters in the Broomloan Front were directed to use turnstiles 62-66, while those in the Broomloan Rear could access the stand via turnstiles 57-61.
Other areas, including the Copland Rear, Main Stand Rear, and Govan East Corner, were also noted for potential queues closer to kick-off, and early arrival was encouraged. Supporters with tickets for the Club Deck could enter through turnstiles 19-23 at the east and 50-56 at the west of the stadium.
The Ticket Office was open on Saturday, 25 July, from 10:00 until 12:00, and on Sunday, 26 July, from 12:00 until kick-off. Parking capacity at the stadium was significantly reduced, meaning general supporter parking was not available for purchase or payment on matchday. Supporters were asked to consider alternative travel options and be mindful of local residents and parking restrictions.
Vehicles parking within the stadium footprint, specifically in the Argyle, Broomloan, and Ibrox Car Parks, were required to enter via the Broomloan Road entrance and park no later than 95 minutes before kick-off. A short delay was anticipated after the final whistle before vehicles could exit to allow supporters to clear the stadium footprint.
Glasgow City Council enforces a pavement parking ban, with fines issued for illegal parking. Supporter buses were advised to park on Helen Street to the west of the stadium, or on Govan Road/Woodville Street and Carmichael Street to the east.
The stadium operates as a cashless venue, with all kiosks accepting card payments only for hot and cold drinks, food, and snacks. The Rangers Fan Zone, presented by Park’s Motor Group at Edmiston House, opened at 12:00, offering live entertainment, a bar, and food stalls. Entry was free with a valid match ticket, on a first-come, first-served basis, with under 18s requiring adult accompaniment.
Designated half-time smoking zones were in operation in all areas of the stadium, excluding the Main Stand and Club Deck. Smoking, including e-cigarettes and vaporisers, is strictly prohibited inside the ground at all times. Stewards were positioned at specific gates to facilitate access to these smoking areas.
The Rangers Charity Foundation conducted a bucket collection for Honeypot children’s charity, which supports young carers and children aged 5-12 facing difficult circumstances. The Fan Engagement team, along with Community Liaison and Disability Access Teams, were present around the stadium to assist supporters and gather feedback.
Travel options to Ibrox included car, bus, rail, and subway. Services 9 and 9A, operated by First Glasgow, run from Glasgow City Centre to Paisley Road West, a short walk from Ibrox Stadium, with an approximate journey time of 13 minutes and fares starting from £2.65. The Subway was scheduled to close at 20:00 on Sunday, with the last train from Ibrox to the city centre departing at 19:32. Contactless payment is available on Subway gates. Bike racks are located at both the Copland and Broomloan Stands.
The stalemate against West Ham United marks the end of Rangers‘ pre-season preparations, with their league campaign set to begin against Dundee United.
New era hopes
The draw against West Ham, while lacking in goalmouth action, has been viewed as a sign of quiet confidence building at Ibrox. Derek McInnes‘ appointment as head coach has been met with broad approval, and the club’s summer recruitment strategy has been noted for its efficiency in addressing long-standing gaps in the squad.
The focus on bringing in players with leadership experience, such as Shankland, Neil, and Dragojevic, reflects a deliberate attempt to improve the team’s resilience. This approach contrasts with previous recruitment strategies, which had been met with less enthusiasm.
The performance of players like Cammy Devlin, who displayed a high work rate and competitive spirit, indicates a shift in attitude within the squad. His energetic display, even in a pre-season fixture, suggests a player ready to thrive in a demanding environment.
The atmosphere at Ibrox during the game, including a rendition of Penny Arcade, suggested a readiness for the upcoming season. The team’s next fixture will be an away game at Tannadice.
Source: rangers.co.uk
Reuben Castle is the Sports News Writer at News GB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with six years of reporting experience. He moved from print into digital sport news. He holds a degree in Journalism from Coventry University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Coventry, he follows the Open Championship and amateur boxing. “Accuracy first; the analysis can follow.”
