Rangers have been charged following the ugly scenes after they faced Celtic in the Scottish Cup quarter-final last season. In March, there were chaotic full-time scenes after the Hoops secured victory over their rivals in a penalty shoot-out.
Background to the fixture
The away crowds were slashed to just 750 almost eight years ago, but an agreement between the clubs saw the numbers increased this term. 2500 Rangers fans were at Celtic Park at New Year and more than 2000 Celtic supporters hit Ibrox in the Premiership encounter seven days before the Scottish Cup showdown. However, cup rules allowed Hoops fans to snap up the full Broomloan Stand for the first time in eight years.
Pitch invasion and review
Following the 4-2 win on penalties for Martin O'Neill's men, there was a massive pitch invasion after a series of incidents throughout derby day. Hampden chiefs revealed an independent review would take place following the scenes, which has now concluded - with a whopping 37-page report released.
Charges and hearing
The Compliance Officer has also published Notices of Complaint relating to the fixture, which charged Rangers with breaching Disciplinary Rule 37. That rule states that a club must ensure good order and security, prevent unacceptable conduct, and deal with any instances effectively. A hearing will be held on August 13.
SFA statement
Following the decision, SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell said: “On behalf of the board I would like to thank the Review Lead, Mark Blackbourne, for producing such a comprehensive independent review and accompanying recommendations, which we will consider in full and seek to implement stated recommendations in conjunction with relevant stakeholders. “Whilst this is now a live matter for an independent Judicial Panel to consider, the Scottish FA wishes to reiterate that the scenes witnessed during the cup tie, and subsequently investigated by our Review Lead, should have no place in our game. “We will work together with the SPFL, clubs, Police Scotland and Scottish Government to ensure no repeat of the events that tarnished the image and reputation of the game. We will also seek to reassure the majority of fans who attend matches responsibly that showpiece occasions such as these should be enjoyed safely in future.”
