Heart of Midlothian Football Club has formally contacted the Scottish Football Association (SFA) and the Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) to demand answers regarding the premature conclusion of last weekend's title-deciding match against Celtic. The game ended in chaos after a mass pitch invasion erupted when Callum Osmand scored deep into stoppage time, securing a 3-1 victory for Celtic and crowning them champions.
Premature Ending Sparks Controversy
With approximately 30 seconds left to play, Celtic fans stormed the pitch, causing the match to be cut short. The SPFL has since insisted that referee Don Robertson did blow the final whistle to signal the end of the match. However, Hearts argue that the invasion effectively determined the duration of the game, setting a dangerous precedent.
In a club statement, Hearts expressed their concerns: 'We have expressed our concern that a troubling precedent has been set whereby a pitch invasion can effectively determine the duration of a football match, rather than the match officials.'
Club Statement and Response to Martin O'Neill
The club also took aim at former Celtic manager Martin O'Neill, who dismissed claims that the post-match scenes embarrassed Scottish football as 'nonsense' and labelled suggestions of assaults on Hearts players as 'hyperbole'. Hearts called these comments 'highly irresponsible' and urged the football authorities to address the matter with the seriousness it demands.
Hearts investor Tony Bloom, who owns a 29% stake in the club, also spoke out, stating that players were 'assaulted' and that their safety was compromised. Bloom said: 'The final whistle hadn't gone, so no supporters should have been on the pitch. The Hearts players were in danger and one or two got assaulted. It is completely unacceptable behaviour.'
Investigation and Future Concerns
Hearts are cooperating with Police Scotland, who are reviewing evidence from the incident. The club has also addressed concerns over UEFA's dual ownership rules, as Bloom also owns Brighton & Hove Albion and has a stake in Union Saint-Gilloise. Hearts confirmed they have received assurances from UEFA that Bloom's involvement does not pose a problem for their European participation.
Despite the disappointment of falling short in the title race, Hearts remain optimistic about the future. Bloom added: 'We will be back next season with a bang. We want to be competing to win the league every single season we possibly can.'
The club thanked their supporters for their backing throughout the season and vowed to come back stronger.
