Viola sportsmanship praised

UEFA President Michel Platini has praised the Italian club ACF Fiorentina and the city of Florence for providing proof that the spirit of fair play exists in football, even in the bitterest hour of defeat, following their 4-2 penalty shoot-out loss in the UEFA Cup semi-final second leg against Rangers FC.

Sportsmanship and respect
"Fiorentina's players gave us a heart-warming display of true sportsmanship and respect in forming a guard of honour as a tribute to the Rangers players, after the Scottish club won the dramatic penalty shoot-out in Florence to progress to the UEFA Cup final last week," said Mr Platini.

Outstanding hospitality
"In addition, the club showed outstanding hospitality to thousands of Rangers supporters, including many without tickets, by making food, entertainment and public viewing of the match available outside the Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Welcome appreciated
"The fact that Rangers fans have contacted both Fiorentina and UEFA to pass on their appreciation for the welcome extended to them in Italy is testimony to the great efforts made by the Italian club and its directors, and to the respect between the two sets of fans.

Values of fair play
"It gives me great pleasure to see that the values of fair play and sportsmanship are still present at the very highest level of the game. The respect shown by Fiorentina and their players should serve as an outstanding example to other clubs, to young football players and to supporters everywhere."