Celtic Football Club statement

In response to today’s decision by the Scottish FA that Celtic will have to play their next Scottish Cup home tie behind closed doors, the Club have released the following statement. 'We are shocked by this disproportionate punishment for a relatively small incursion by Celtic supporters at a moment of emotion and celebration. Our club has never defended supporters entering the field of play and we have repeatedly taken action when it occurs. However, we understand the part emotion plays in football and would have expected the context and distinction in behaviours to have been taken into account by the Panel. Another important distinction is that, on this occasion, Celtic were not the home club, responsible for stadium safety arrangements. We will study the panel’s report and reasoning when it is available and will thereafter consider our next steps.'