NafisaThe SPFL has criticised the pitch invasion at Celtic Park.
This occurred during Celtic’s dramatic 3-1 win over Heart of Midlothian on the final day of the league campaign.
Some home supporters poured onto the pitch after Callum Osmand’s goal, leading to the match not restarting.
The SPFL said: “Firstly, we send our congratulations to Celtic on winning the William Hill Premiership in the most exciting of circumstances and send our commiserations to everyone at Heart of Midlothian following an incredible campaign.
“However, we utterly condemn the scenes which saw a number of Celtic supporters encroach onto the field of play.”
The governing body confirmed that the fixture was not abandoned, as the referee stated the game had concluded before the trophy presentation took place.
The SPFL said: “We would also like to thank the referee and his excellent team of match officials for their cool heads on such a dramatic day.
“Given the speculation about the conclusion of the game, we would like to make clear that, prior to awarding the trophy, we were informed by the match referee that the match had ended and had not been abandoned.”
Reflecting on the dramatic finish to the season, they added: “Yesterday’s match showed off the very best of the Scottish game and the drama and excitement that it is rightly famed for.”
The SPFL, however, repeated that entering the pitch is “wholly unacceptable” and places those involved in the match at risk.
They are now waiting for the match delegate’s report regarding any specific incidents.
They also pointed out that pitch invasions in England and Wales have been illegal since 1991, and encouraged anyone with information regarding any alleged criminal behaviour to contact Police Scotland.
Nafisa
