Celtic and Rangers take hardline stance over SPFL charge after 'large-scale and illegal' conduct of fans

Celtic and Rangers have both issued their response after being charged by the Scottish Professional Football League for the “irresponsible” and “illegal” actions of supporters during last month’s Premier Sports Cup semi-finals.

Both Glasgow clubs, along with Motherwell, were found to be in breach of SPFL rules after fans let off pyrotechnic displays before the Celtic vs Aberdeen and Motherwell vs Rangers clashes at Hampden Park.

The games were subject to delayed kick-offs due to poor visibility after smoke engulfed the pitch and now all three clubs will face a disciplinary hearing after being issued with a notice of complaint by Scottish football’s governing body.

The SPFL are working closely with both Celtic and Rangers in a bid to avoid a repeat situation at the upcoming Premier Sports Cup final on Sunday, December 15.

Celtic chairman Peter Lawwell addressed the ongoing pyro issue at the club’s AGM, revealing the club had been fined €137,000 by UEFA since the start of last season for incidents in European matches. He described the behaviour of supporters in relation to the matter as “totally unacceptable”.

In a statement released to CeltsAreHere responding to the charge, a club spokesperson said: “Celtic Football Club notes the decision taken by the SPFL to commence disciplinary proceedings against three clubs following the semi-finals, and we will present Celtic’s position at the relevant hearing.

“The Club has been very clear in our opposition to the unauthorised use of fireworks and pyrotechnics at matches, with their use representing a risk to supporter safety and enjoyment, and, now, to the match and match preparations. The Club will continue its efforts to seek to manage this concerning issue.”

Rangers have also broken their silence, having issued previous warnings to fans over the use of pyrotechnics. Interim chairman John Gilligan recently led calls for a stop to the displays after the club was fined £28,000 by UEFA for similar incidents in Europa League games against Malmo and Lyon.

A Rangers spokesperson told The Scottish Sun: “Rangers FC has been charged by the SPFL following the use of pyrotechnics at the Premier Sports Cup semi-final with Motherwell on November 3.

“Rangers’ stance on the use of pyrotechnics has been consistent. They are illegal and should not be brought to our matches. The club are engaging with the SPFL on this matter.”