Rangers and Celtic hold meeting as consultant leads Old Firm review

Rangers and Celtic officials have met after the SFA appointed a lead for the review into pitch disorder that unfolded following an Old Firm game in March.

Fans clashed on the field at Ibrox after Celtic knocked Rangers out of the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup on penalties on Sunday, March 8.

Celtic secured a 4-2 shoot-out victory after a goalless draw before dozens of fans spilled onto the pitch, sparking an invasion from hundreds of Rangers fans on the opposite end.

Flares and other objects were thrown as police and stewards moved to form a barrier.

Police have made a total of 17 arrests following the violence, which saw officers, supporters, members of coaching staff, and players assaulted.

Following the match, the Scottish Football Association said it was investigating to establish the circumstances surrounding the invasion and to determine what recommendations would be made to “avoid a repeat of similar scenes”.

In an update on Friday, the SFA confirmed that both Old Firm sides, Police Scotland and representatives from the SFA have met at Hampden as the investigation continues.

They also confirmed that sports consultant Mark Blackbourne had been appointed the independent lead for the review.

A statement read: “The Scottish FA can confirm the appointment of an Independent Lead and terms of reference for the review into the incidents which occurred at the Scottish Gas Scottish Cup quarter-final between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox Stadium on March 8.

“The review will seek to establish the facts surrounding what happened during the day of the match, both within Ibrox Stadium and the surrounding area, including examining events and decisions made in advance of, during and following the match, with a view to identifying lessons learnt and making recommendations to avoid a repeat of similar scenes at other fixtures with a similar risk profile.

“The review will be led by Mark Blackbourne, a vastly experienced sports event consultant who continues to lead on match operations at major club and international competitions under UEFA and FIFA jurisdiction.

“The review process commenced with a meeting of all relevant parties at Barclays Hampden, convened by the Independent Lead, including the respective clubs, Police Scotland and representatives from the Scottish FA.”