Celtic’s title-clinching trip to Tannadice was briefly halted twice on Saturday afternoon as supporters protested against Dundee United’s controversial ticket pricing by launching hundreds of tangerines onto the pitch.
The match was stopped for around two-and-a-half minutes early in the first half after the fruit was thrown onto the playing surface from the away end. The protest came in response to away fans being charged up to £43 per ticket — while home supporters were offered a “bring a friend” deal for just £10.
Celtic fans also unfurled a banner reading: “Enjoy the fruits of our labour,” as players and officials helped clear the pitch of the scattered tangerines.
UPDATE: There was another stoppage in play in the 51st minute as dozens of footballs were thrown onto the pitch from the Celtic support.
Another banner was unfurled saying: “Stop pricing fans out of football”.#DUFC #CelticFC https://t.co/3rh1PHrDpR pic.twitter.com/HxnlzWu0RN
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) April 26, 2025
The demonstration didn’t stop there. In the 51st minute, play was again paused when dozens of footballs were lobbed onto the field from the away section, accompanied by another banner declaring: “Stop pricing fans out of football.”
Hundreds of tangerines were thrown onto the pitch at Tannadice – forcing a stoppage in play during Dundee United v Celtic.
Celtic fans were protesting against the ticket prices after paying up to £43 for the away end, while tickets for home fans were on sale for just £10. pic.twitter.com/f8xTGQasu0
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) April 26, 2025
The footballs were removed more swiftly, allowing the game to continue without further delay, but the message from the Celtic support was loud and clear.
The protest highlighted growing frustration among fans over the rising cost of attending matches, particularly at a time when many are feeling the squeeze financially. While the club itself remains financially robust, supporters are calling for fairness and affordability, ensuring the game remains accessible to all.
It was a clever and necessary protest that captured attention — showing once again that when fans make their voices heard, people take notice.
