Hearts unleash on Celtic and demand ‘strongest possible’ punishment for chaos | Football | Sport

Hearts have condemned the “shameful” and “disgraceful” scenes that overshadowed the end of Saturday’s season finale at Celtic, claiming they “embarrassed” Scottish football. The runners-up have unleashed a furious response over inadequate security and safety measures, calling for the strongest possible action after reports emerged of players and staff suffering verbal and physical abuse, both on the pitch and in other areas.

The Tynecastle outfit also say they remain uncertain as to when or whether referee Don Robertson actually signalled full-time amid the chaotic circumstances.

A statement read: “Heart of Midlothian utterly condemns the shameful scenes at Celtic Park this afternoon which have, once again, embarrassed Scottish football.

“Reports of serious physical and verbal abuse towards our players and staff, both on the pitch and elsewhere, are deeply disturbing.

“We are investigating this fully and are in dialogue with Police Scotland. We will make no further comment at this time other than to say that it is completely unacceptable that our players and staff were put in that situation.

“Given the menacing and threatening atmosphere inside the stadium, our entire staff had no alternative but to leave immediately, without undertaking post-match media duties.

“To our media partners, we apologise but the safety of our staff was our prime focus during these unacceptable scenes. The pitch invasion caused a chaotic end and nobody seemed to know whether or not the match had been brought to a finish.

“Our players were then denied the opportunity to thank our magnificent fans – sensational to a person – for their backing this afternoon and all season long.

“We expect the strongest action possible to be taken by the footballing authorities in the interests of protecting the safety of players and supporters, and the integrity of our game.

“This season has seen Hearts capture the imagination of football fans, not only in Scotland, but the world over.

“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.”