Partick Thistle has sacked manager Ian McCall just hours after the coach’s side put in a spirited display in the Scottish Cup against Rangers.
The Gers eventually won a frenetic cup tie against the Championship side 3-2 at Ibrox courtesy of a late James Sands header after drama around an earlier Malik Tillman strike.
Thistle had gone in front in the first half through a controversial Kevin Holt penalty before Antonio Colak equalised five minutes into the second period following fine work from Nicolas Raskin.
Rangers would then take the lead through Tillman but Michael Beale ordered his side to let Scott Tiffoney score to even up the match with the Bayern loanee snatching the ball before Partick could return it to Rangers.
This was after the Ibrox side kicked the ball out so the USA international could receive treatment, with Tillman not getting the memo and charging down the Partick defence.
Ian McCall sacked as Partick Thistle manager
Speaking after the game then Partick Thistle manager Ian McCall was glowing in his praise of both Michael Beale and Rangers for the moment in the game but soon after would be on the manager’s scrap heap.
Whilst the details are foggy, Ian McCall has been sacked as Partick Thistle boss with his side out of the Scottish Cup and 5th in the Championship, 10 points off leaders Queen’s Park with a game in hand.
Ian McCall is also joined by Alan Archibald and Neil Scally in being relieved of his duties.
“Partick Thistle FC have this evening relieved Ian McCall, Alan Archibald and Neil Scally, of their duties in relation to the first team with immediate effect,” reads a Partick Thistle statement.
“The club would like to place on record it’s sincere appreciation to all three for their contributions to Partick Thistle over many years.
“Under 18 coach Kris Doolan will take on the role of First Team Manager on an interim basis, and will be assisted in this regard by Academy Director Paul McDonald.
“At this crucial juncture of the season, we ask all members of the Partick Thistle family, to get behind Kris and the team as we strive for promotion to the Scottish Premiership.
“No further comment will be made this evening.”
Meanwhile, the return of Kemar Roofe for Rangers against Partick Thistle is a major boost.
