Celtic are set to face disciplinary action for the pitch invasion following their Scottish Cup quarter-final win over Rangers. The club's supporters invaded the pitch after the match, leading to a 37-page report and charges against both clubs. The Compliance Officer has published Notices of Complaint relating to the fixture, which charged Rangers and Celtic with breaching Disciplinary Rule 37.
What happened?
The pitch invasion occurred after Celtic secured a 4-2 win on penalties over Rangers in the Scottish Cup quarter-final. The away crowds were slashed to just 750 almost eight years ago, but an agreement between the clubs saw the numbers increased this term. 2,500 Rangers fans were at Celtic Park at New Year and more than 2,000 Celtic supporters hit Ibrox in the Premiership encounter seven days before the Scottish Cup showdown.
Why it matters for Celtic
The pitch invasion has led to a 37-page report and charges against both clubs. The Compliance Officer has published Notices of Complaint relating to the fixture, which charged Rangers and Celtic with breaching Disciplinary Rule 37. This rule states that each club must ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that its players, officials, supporters, and any person exercising a function for or in connection with the club do not engage in Unacceptable Conduct at any ground on the occasion of a match.
What comes next?
Celtic representatives will answer the charges on Thursday, while Rangers' hearing has been delayed until August 24. The new date is set for August 24, while Celtic representatives will answer the charges on Thursday. The Sun state that Rangers' involvement in tomorrow's Europa League clash with Jagiellonia Bialystok has seen their hearing pushed back.
Celtic are currently 1st in the Premiership, with 6 points from 2 games, and a +5 goal difference. They have scored 6 goals and conceded 1 this season. Their recent form is 5W-0D-0L, with their last result being a 1-0 win over Dundee on August 3. They are next set to face ST Mirren away on September 5, with the Hoops currently sidelined due to an injury to Jota.
