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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
James McLaughlin

Celtic, Rangers & Motherwell charged by SPFL for pyro breach in League Cup

The SPFL has confirmed that Celtic, Rangers and Motherwell have been charged with breaching the SPFL rules for fan behaviour related to the use of pyrotechnics during the last round of Scottish League Cup fixtures.

Delays to both semi-finals between Celtic and Aberdeen, and Rangers and Motherwell in the competition's semi-final rounds over two days were cited as "unacceptable", and the use of illegal pyrotechnics were criticised for posing "clear dangers and health and safety risks to fellow supporters, players and those working at matches."

The SPFL statement reads: [The] irresponsible behaviour by a minority of fans led to a 14 minute delay to Celtic v Aberdeen, a 5 minute delay to Motherwell v Rangers and caused significant inconvenience to thousands of fans at the game and to supporters watching worldwide.

"The SPFL, Scottish FA, Police Scotland and other organisations have been clear that such use of pyrotechnics is illegal and poses clear dangers and health and safety risks to fellow supporters, players and those working at matches.

"There have been a number of complaints from supporters about these incidents and the SPFL and Scottish FA have been in ongoing discussions with the clubs involved in the weeks since the semi-finals.

"The SPFL can now confirm that Celtic, Motherwell and Rangers have all been issued with formal notices of complaint under SPFL Rule H34 and each club will face a disciplinary hearing."


The statement added: "Preparations are ongoing ahead of the Premier Sports Cup Final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park next week, as the SPFL prepares to welcome a capacity crowd for one of the highlights of the Scottish sporting calendar.

"The SPFL and Scottish FA will continue to work closely with the finalists in the build up to this showpiece occasion to reinforce the importance of ensuring a safe and enjoyable match day experience for all supporters, in the context of what is now an ongoing disciplinary process."

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