Four men jailed for Old Firm disorder in Glasgow city centre ahead of Scottish League Cup Final

Four men have been jailed after Old Firm fans clashed in Glasgow city centre ahead of the Scottish League Cup Final in 2024.

On December 15, supporters of both Rangers and Celtic gathered near Argyle Street some three hours before the game was due to kick-off at Hampden Park.

Both groups wore balaclavas or face coverings and walked through busy shopping streets from opposite directions until they met each other on the pedestrianised street where mass disorder broke out.

Christmas shoppers, tourists and children ran for cover in nearby shops and cafes. Some premises locked their doors to ensure the safety of customers and staff.

Andrew Campbell, John Devine, Thomas Slavin and Liam Coogans were identified as participants in the football-related violence following detailed CCTV analysis and a public appeal for information.

Thomas Slavin and Josh Devine Police Scotland

Campbell, 29, Devine, 28, and Slavin, 27, all from Glasgow, with Coogans, 29, from Larkhall, South Lanarkshire, pled guilty to breaching the peace.

Glasgow Sheriff Court heard how the men formed part of a disorderly crowd which repeatedly blocked the roadway for vehicles, engaged in a running fight with Rangers supporters, threw lit fireworks, bricks and bottles and placed the public in a state of fear and alarm.

Celtic and Rangers fans clashed on Argyle Street in Glasgow. COPFS

On Monday, Campbell and Devine were each sentenced to 18 months in prison and banned from attending football matches for eight years.

Coogans and Slavin were sentenced to a year each behind bars and were each banned from attending matches for four years.

Fraser Gibson, Procurator Fiscal for Glasgow and Strathkelvin, said: “These four men were part of a mob which caused horrifying scenes in Glasgow city centre.

Liam Coogans and Andrew Campbell Police Scotland

“Innocent members of the public, including children, were exposed to football-related violence and disorder. Many were left terrified after what should have been a simple shopping trip.

“This is intolerable behaviour which brings shame to Scotland.

“These four men were part of a large-scale football-related crime on public streets.

“It should be understood that anyone who chooses to participate in football-related rioting can expect to be held accountable by COPFS.”