A 98th-minute goal gave Celtic a 3–1 victory over Hearts and clinched the Scottish Premiership title. The match descended into chaos as the players invaded the pitch.
Lawrence Shankland was one of several players escorted out (Image: Sky Sports)
The Scottish title decider between Celtic and Hearts ended in ugly scenes as police were forced to remove both players following a pitch invasion. Celtic scored a goal in the 8th minute of added time to secure a 3-1 come-from-behind victory.
Home fans stormed the pitch to celebrate, police swooped in and sent off the team, and eventually referee Don Robertson blew the full-time whistle amid the chaos. Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland was seen being escorted away by security.
Manager Derek McInnes was also seen being taken into the tunnel by police. His team lead the table by one point heading into Saturday’s game at Parkhead.
Hearts only needed to avoid defeat to end their 66-year wait to win the Scottish Premiership title, but that was not to be. Shankland gave the visitors a valuable lead just before half-time, but it was erased by Arne Engels’ penalty just before half-time.
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Needing to score again, Celtic became increasingly frustrated as the second half progressed. However, in the 87th minute Daizen Maeda slotted home to give Martin O’Neill’s side the lead.
When Hearts scored an equalizing goal in stoppage time, goalkeeper Alexander Schwolo was raised for a free-kick. This was easily cleared by Celtic through Callum Osmund and the 20-year-old easily scored the third goal.
The pitch invasion continued and former Celtic striker Chris Sutton said he understood the celebrations but described the scenes as “ridiculous”. After being told the game was over, Hearts players and staff boarded the team bus and left the stadium.
Hearts left the stadium within minutes of the final whistle (Image: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Former Scotland forward James McFadden told Sky Sports: “It’s going to take a long time for Hearts to get over this situation, but they have to take a step back when they can.” “They pushed Celtic all the way and it was close, so that’s a credit to the players and Derek McInnes.”
But it was a joy for O’Neill, who made a successful comeback as caretaker manager in January after a spell as caretaker manager at the start of the season. “This is the most special place on earth,” the 74-year-old told a jubilant Parkhead before the trophy lift.
“I think it’s remarkable to see the absolute togetherness in this stadium. The players were great, but we couldn’t have won without you.”
Celtic fans storm the pitch after the third goal (Image: Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Emotional Celtic captain Callum McGregor added on Sky Sports: “For the first time in my life, I’m speechless.” What a season! Everyone ignored us. I knew I had a chance. We go on and on. What a special group of people. Magical. ”
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