Serious disorder was allegedly sparked by the failure of a big screen erected in Piccadilly Gardens to transmit the match to thousands of Rangers fans who had travelled to the city without tickets.

[9] Just as the match kicked-off, serious civil disorder began when a large screen blacked out, which was erected to broadcast the game at the Rangers fanzone in Piccadilly Gardens.

PC Paul Ritchie received a High Commendation for saving a police officer knocked to the ground by a bottle thrown by a rioter.

[5] BBC News reported that a small groups of Rangers supporters had clashed with police in the city centre after a bank was attacked, bus stop and a sports car which was bounced over the road.

[17] Steven Purcell, leader of Glasgow City Council, offered an apology in a Manchester newspaper for 200 hardcore thugs.

"[19][20][21] A UEFA spokesman indicated that Rangers were unlikely to face sanctions because the violence did not occur at the City of Manchester Stadium where the match was held.

[citation needed] The force's Assistant Chief Constable referred to the behaviour of the fans who were involved in trouble as "unnecessary and unacceptable".

[30][31] An appeal was issued on Crimewatch in January 2009, and published in Rangers' match programme, attempting to trace 49 men in connection with the riots.

[32] In August 2009, thirteen suspected football hooligans appeared in Manchester magistrates court charged with violent disorder following the final.

[37] Plans by Manchester United to invite Rangers to be the opponents for Gary Neville's testimonial match were reportedly abandoned in April 2010 due to objections from police and the local council over fears of trouble due to remaining bad feeling over the damage caused to Manchester city centre by the riots.

The draw raised security concerns, in particular regarding the potential for possible reprisals, and the prospect of a large number of ticketless fans arriving in Manchester.

[40] The Rangers chief executive Martin Bain also dismissed concerns, highlighting the club's good relations, and prior Champions League meeting in 2003.

[41][42] Wigan Athletic's safety officer also commended supporters' behaviour, commenting "Rangers fans are welcome here any time in the future, because we had a superb reaction from those who travelled".