Club admits victory was marred by pitch invasions

ANGUS WRIGHT

HIBERNIAN admitted their derby win over Hearts was marred by the actions of some of their supporters.

There was a pitch invasion at the final whistle, and rival supporters clashed after the game at Easter Road. A spectator was arrested after appearing on the pitch as the teams left the field at half-time, and a report will be sent to the procurator fiscal. Hearts goalkeeper Tepi Moilanen helped to apprehend the man on the pitch.

The incident came 24 hours after an Aberdeen supporter allegedly tried to attack Rangers player Fernando Ricksen during their game at Pittodrie.

A Hibs spokesman said "appropriate action" will be taken over yesterday’s incident if necessary. He said: "We are awaiting to find out what the situation is from the police and if the individual has been charged and what he has been charged with.

‘We deplore the actions of the people who invaded the pitch - it does the club no good at all’ - HIBS SPOKESMAN

"In general, it is unacceptable for a person to step on the field of play and move towards the referee. But for the actions of the Hearts goalkeeper it could have been more unfortunate and he is to be commended."

The spokesman added: "We deplore the actions of the people who invaded the pitch - it does the club no good at all.

"We will be waiting on the referee’s report and information from the police as it comes in and, when the club has the full information, we will take the appropriate action against the individuals identified.

"It is a pity when the team has shown such enormous spirit and character that the focus is going to be on this because of the actions of individuals."

Hibs manager Bobby Williamson did not see the alleged incident at half-time but he said that pitch invaders should be banned from Easter Road. He said: "I didn’t see what happened, but we have to protect people participating in the game."

At Pittodrie, Rangers were leading 2-1 when a man appeared on the pitch and allegedly aimed a blow at Ricksen.

Aberdeen chief executive Keith Wyness immediately condemned the alleged incident and warned that anyone found guilty of such conduct would be banned from Pittodrie for life.

Ricksen is not a popular figure at Pittodrie. Three seasons ago he was caught on camera kicking Aberdeen midfielder Darren Young. The Dutchman also made controversial comments about it on his personal website and was subsequently punished for the kick by the Scottish Football Association.

Taken from the Scotsman