CELTIC and The Rangers fans have been met with a ban on early access to Hampden Park ahead of their Sunday Scottish Cup semi–final showdown, as authorities ramp up measures to ensure fan safety.
The decision comes after violence erupted outside the national stadium the last time the two sides met, with a senior police officer calling for a ban on early access to prevent similar disturbances.
In addition to 100 extra stewards being brought in to watch for trouble, sniffer dogs will be deployed to detect any illicit items, and fans can expect to go through more rigorous checks.
Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA Chief Executive, urges all those in attendance to “enjoy the event safely and responsibly.”
As quoted by The Sun, he said:
“Our security and events teams have been working in partnership with participating clubs, Police Scotland and the stewarding company to ensure supporters can enjoy the weekend Scottish Cup semi-finals as safely as possible.
“Part of the preparation involves working with local community partners to minimise disruption to neighbours and we have undertaken enhanced measures for the Old Firm match given the capacity crowd.
“We urge everyone in attendance to enjoy the event safely and responsibly, with consideration to players, fans and the local community.”
As many will recall, the Celtic fans had clashed with the Union Bears in the morning of the League Cup final, while the Ibrox side were trying to get a tifo into the ground.
