Police Scotland have pledged to take “robust and swift action” against anyone found guilty of criminality after a pitch invasion marred Celtic’s Scottish Premiership title victory. The disorder erupted following a stoppage-time goal by Callum Osmand, prompting thousands of Celtic fans to storm the pitch at full-time.
Hearts Players and Staff Targeted
Heart of Midlothian, the losing side, issued a statement describing “serious physical and verbal abuse” directed at their players and staff. The Edinburgh club condemned the “shameful scenes” that forced them to leave Celtic Park under a “menacing and threatening atmosphere.” An unused Hearts substitute, Christian Borchgrevink, reported that “people got worried” and that while everyone returned unharmed, there was “a little blood here and there.”
Police Investigation Underway
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Sutherland confirmed an ongoing investigation, stating: “If any player, or indeed any member of the public, has been assaulted on that pitch, and there is criminality, we will take robust and swift action.” He noted that Celtic are responsible for stadium safety and security, with police providing support. No arrests have been made yet.
Disorder in Glasgow City Centre
After the match, around 3,000 fans gathered in Glasgow’s Trongate area, where officers faced “significant levels of disorder.” Police reported that missiles, including glass bottles, were thrown at them while they were assisting with a medical emergency, leaving officers injured.
SPFL Condemns Pitch Invasion
The Scottish Professional Football League (SPFL) released a statement on Sunday, utterly condemning the pitch encroachment. “Supporters entering the field of play in any circumstances is wholly unacceptable and puts those participating and working at a match at risk,” the SPFL said, urging anyone with information to contact Police Scotland. The SPFL confirmed that the referee had ended the match and it was not abandoned.
