Hearts say ‘shameful’ scenes at Celtic ‘embarrassed Scottish football’
Hearts blasted Celtic’s “shameful and unacceptable” scenes which “embarrassed Scottish football” as their Premiership title dream ended on Saturday.
The Jambos lost the crucial away match 3-1 at Celtic Park after late goals from Daizen Maeda and Callum Osmand.
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Osmand’s third goal in stoppage time sparked a melee as home fans rushed onto the pitch to celebrate.
Many supporters clashed with Hearts players, with skipper Lawrence Shankland seen angrily pushing a fan away.
The match did not resume and the visiting team was led into the tunnel by club officials concerned for their safety.
Hearts players left the stadium while still in their match kit and did not carry out their post-match media duties.
The club later issued a strong statement, condemning the chaotic scenes at Celtic Park.
The statement read: “Heart of Midlothian categorically condemns the disgraceful scenes at Celtic Park this afternoon which have, once again, embarrassed Scottish football.
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“Reports of serious physical and verbal abuse against our players and staff, both on and off the field, are deeply disturbing. We are investigating this matter fully and are in dialogue with Police Scotland.”
Hearts went into the final game of the season knowing that a draw would be enough to win their first league title in 66 years.
The visitors took the lead when Shankland headed home a corner in the 43rd minute.
But Celtic restored parity before the break, Arne Engels converting his shot after Kieran Tierney’s cross hit the arm of Alexandros Kyziridis.
Both teams failed to add to the score for most of the second half, and Hearts were just three minutes away from securing the point that would make them the Scottish champions.
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But Derek McInnes’ side failed to hold on in the final minutes, as Maeda and then Osmand scored to lead Celtic to their fifth successive title.
