Hearts have released a statement condemning the events that followed their Scottish Premiership match against Celtic, describing the atmosphere at Celtic Park as “menacing and threatening”. The Edinburgh club stated that the safety of their staff was the primary concern, forcing them to leave the stadium immediately after the final whistle. Hearts finished as runners-up after leading the league since September.
Hearts Cite Safety Concerns, Players Emotional
According to Hearts, the decision to leave the stadium without fulfilling post-match media duties was due to the unacceptable scenes witnessed. Cammy Devlin and Frankie Kent were reportedly in tears upon their return to Tynecastle. Jamie McCart was also emotional.
Captain Lawrence Shankland and head coach Derek McInnes came back out to greet the fans. Midfielder Cammy Devlin looked to be in shock, while striker Pierre Landry Kabore was consoled by Derek McInnes. Hearts chair Ann Budge greeted the fans outside Tynecastle, who thanked the players for their efforts.
Pitch Invasion and Allegations of Abuse
The club’s statement follows scenes where fans invaded the pitch after Callum Osmand scored to put Celtic 3-1 ahead. Celtic’s win secured their fifth consecutive league title in what Hearts described as an incredible conclusion to the season. Hearts say they “utterly condemn the shameful scenes at Celtic Park, which have, once again, embarrassed Scottish football”.
Hearts say they are investigating “reports of serious physical and verbal abuse towards our players and staff, both on the pitch and elsewhere” with the assistance of Police Scotland. They described the events in Glasgow as “deeply disturbing”.
Hearts Demand Action from Authorities
The club has called for the footballing authorities to take the strongest action possible. They believe such measures are necessary to protect the integrity of the game. Hearts noted that “nobody seemed to know whether or not the match had been brought to a finish”, given the Celtic fans entered the field in the immediate aftermath of the third goal and with time still notionally left to play.
The SPFL says it will be making no comment on the post-match scenes until it has seen their match delegate’s report.
Hearts say: “This season has seen Hearts capture the imagination of football fans, not only in Scotland but the world over”. They add that “to our media partners, we apologise, but the safety of our staff was our prime focus during these unacceptable scenes.”
- Hearts finished as Scottish Premiership runners-up.
- They condemn the scenes at Celtic Park.
- They are investigating reports of abuse towards players and staff.
Hearts say: “We pay tribute to Derek McInnes, his staff, the first team and the supporters, who have done the club proud this season. None of them deserved the disgraceful scenes that unfolded.”