Celtic have issued an apology to Hearts after supporters entered the pitch following the club’s Scottish Premiership title celebrations, admitting the incident denied the visitors the chance to acknowledge their travelling fans.
The Hoops sealed the championship on Saturday, but post-match scenes at Celtic Park were overshadowed by a pitch invasion after the final whistle.
Hearts players and staff were quickly escorted from the field by police as large numbers of supporters spilled onto the pitch.
In a statement released on Sunday, Celtic praised Martin O’Neill, his squad and the club’s support for securing a 56th league title, while also condemning the behaviour that followed the victory.
“Everyone at the Club congratulates Martin, our players and all our staff on delivering the club’s 56th Scottish league title and a thrilling climax to the season backed by a magnificent support,” the statement read.
“We thank Celtic fans for everything they have done to help the team over the line.
“The Club regrets that our victory over Hearts was followed by a number of individuals entering the field of play.
“We again emphasise that there is no justification for this behaviour which, for the vast majority of Celtic supporters, only detracts from the joy of such occasions.”
Celtic also confirmed they would assist fully with any disciplinary process launched in the aftermath of the incident.
“Celtic will co-operate fully with any investigation and with the SPFL in their own processes,” the statement continued.
“We also apologise to Hearts for the situation encountered by their players and staff at the conclusion of the game, and for the fact that these events prevented them from saluting their own supporters at the end of an enthralling campaign, to which they have contributed so much.”
