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SPFL finally confirm truth on whether Celtic vs Hearts was abandoned
Reach Daily Express | May 18, 2026 12:39 AM CST

The SPFL have condemned the Celtic supporters who stormed the pitch on Saturday, while insisting referee Don Robertson did not bring the match to a premature conclusion. Hundreds of Celtic fans sprinted onto the Parkhead surface after Callum Osmand netted a decisive third goal to secure the Scottish Premiership title against Hearts. Fans taunted some of the Jambos players, with Derek McInnes and his squad subsequently returning to Edinburgh without fulfilling their post-match media obligations.

Celtic boss Martin O'Neill revealed in his own press conference that the fourth official had told him there remained a minute of play amid the chaotic circumstances. However, league officials have confirmed that whistler Robertson did indeed conclude proceedings.

In a statement, they said: "Given the speculation about the conclusion of the game, we would like to make clear that, prior to awarding the trophy, we were informed by the match referee that the match had ended and had not been abandoned.

"We would also like to thank the referee and his excellent team of match officials for their cool heads on such a dramatic day."

Regarding the scenes at the final whistle, they said: "We utterly condemn the scenes which saw a number of Celtic supporters encroach onto the field of play.

"We await the report of our match delegate regarding any specific incidents that took place but, regardless, supporters entering the field of play in any circumstances is wholly unacceptable and puts those participating and working at a match at risk.

"We note that entering the pitch in England and Wales has been a criminal offence since 1991.

"We urge anyone with information about any alleged criminal activity to contact Police Scotland."

Describing it as a thrilling conclusion to the campaign, they went on to say: "We send our congratulations to Celtic on winning the William Hill Premiership in the most exciting of circumstances and send our commiserations to everyone at Heart of Midlothian following an incredible campaign.

"The match showed off the very best of the Scottish game and the drama and excitement that it is rightly famed for.

"The eyes of the world were on Glasgow and the climax of the William Hill Premiership, with millions of viewers watching the match on Sky Sports and across the globe."

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