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Heart of Midlothian have issued a strongly-worded statement condemning the scenes that unfolded following their match against Celtic at Celtic Park.
The Edinburgh club described the incidents as “shameful” and claimed players and staff were subjected to serious abuse amid chaotic scenes after the final whistle.
Hearts issue official response after post-match scenes vs Celtic
In a statement released after the game, Hearts said reports of physical and verbal abuse directed towards players and staff were “deeply disturbing”, and confirmed the club is now in dialogue with Police Scotland.
The club also explained that staff immediately left the stadium without carrying out post-match media duties due to concerns over safety and the threatening atmosphere inside Celtic Park, also claiming that it “embarrassed Scottish football” again.
Hearts apologised to broadcasters and media partners but insisted that protecting players and staff had to come first.
The statement also criticised the pitch invasion that followed the match, claiming it created confusion over whether the game had officially finished and prevented Hearts players from acknowledging their travelling supporters.
The club called for “the strongest action possible” from football authorities in order to protect the integrity of the game and improve safety for players and supporters alike.
Hearts finished by praising Derek McInnes, the players and supporters for a season they said had “captured the imagination” of football fans both in Scotland and internationally.
FGG says: Scenes like this are never a good look for the game
Regardless of the context surrounding the result or emotions inside the stadium, scenes involving alleged abuse, pitch invasions and safety concerns are clearly damaging for Scottish football’s image.
Supporters celebrating major moments is one thing, but clubs, players and staff should never feel unsafe carrying out normal post-match duties or leaving the pitch.
The fact that Hearts felt unable to complete media obligations underlines how seriously they viewed the situation.
Investigations will now determine exactly what happened and whether further action follows, but overall, it is simply disappointing to see a significant occasion overshadowed by disorder rather than the football itself.