GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) – Scottish soccer authorities say they “completely condemn” the field invasion after Celtic’s title-clinching goal. Thrilling final round showdown Along with the heart.
Callum Osmund’s goal with eight minutes left in stoppage time gave Celtic a 3-1 win on Saturday, sparking wild celebrations among fans as hundreds rushed onto the pitch and approached the dejected Hearts players.
Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland was reportedly punched by a Celtic fan as he tried to leave the field, and the game appeared to be over before full stoppage time was played.
The Hearts delegation left Celtic Park shortly after, with the players still wearing their match kits when they disembarked from the team bus at their home base at Tynecastle Park. The club said “reports of serious physical and verbal abuse towards players and staff” were “extremely concerning” and called on Scottish football authorities to take the “strongest possible action”.
In a statement released on Sunday, the Scottish Professional Football League said it was awaiting a report from representatives of the match regarding the specific incident that occurred.
“However, it is completely unacceptable for supporters to enter the match field under any circumstances,” the association said, “putting those attending and working on the match at risk.”
The SPFL felt it necessary to clarify that “before awarding the trophy, we were informed by the match referee that the match was over and not abandoned.”
“Yesterday’s game showcased the drama and excitement of Scotland at its best and for which it is well-deserved,” the statement added.
Celtic won for the fifth consecutive year and 14th in 15 seasons, while long-time leaders Hearts missed out on their first Scottish League title since 1960.
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