Hearts Contact Police Over Abuse After Celtic's 3-1 Title Win Sparks Pitch Invasion
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · May 16
Hearts Contact Police Over Abuse After Celtic's 3-1 Title Win Sparks Pitch Invasion
12 articles · Updated · The Guardian · May 16
Hearts said they are investigating reports of serious physical and verbal abuse of players and staff and are in dialogue with Police Scotland after chaotic scenes at Celtic Park.
Celtic's third goal in a 3-1 win that sealed a fifth straight Scottish Premiership title triggered a mass pitch invasion, with Hearts players confronted before leaving the field during stoppage time.
The Edinburgh club said the atmosphere had become menacing and threatening, forcing staff to skip post-match media duties and return to Tynecastle under police escort.
Nearly five hours after the match, Celtic and the SPFL had not issued statements; Celtic captain Callum McGregor downplayed the invasion, while manager Martin O'Neill said any accosting of Hearts players was unacceptable.
Hearts, who came close to a first title since 1960, called for the strongest possible action to protect player and supporter safety and the integrity of Scottish football.
After police warnings and a chaotic finale, what accountability does Celtic face for failing to control its fans?
Given the on-pitch chaos and alleged assaults, could Celtic actually be stripped of their league title?
Is the rise of 'Ultras' culture making Scottish football dangerously ungovernable for clubs and police?