Top cop slams Old Firm clubs for 'failing to condemn violence'

POLICE Scotland's Chief Constable has slammed Rangers and Celtic for not condemning the violence which marred the end of last weekend's Scottish Cup clash.

- BY RICHARD ELIAS

Shocking... disorder at match between Rangers and Celtic at Ibrox, police try to clear the pitch, above, and stewards grapple with a masked fan, below

The game at Ibrox saw the visitors triumph 4-2 on penalties, prompting wild celebrations from the 7,500 Celtic fans. Within seconds, hundreds flooded on to the pitch and were confronted by Rangers supporters.

Flares, fireworks, bottles and coins were hurled by the rival groups and there were brawls before order was restored. A number of people were injured, including a 10-year-old boy and police officers.

So far, nine people have been arrested over the disturbances but that figure is expected to rise.

Yesterday, police chief Jo Farrell was at Holyrood speaking to members of the Public Audit Committee.

She told MSPs: "The events of Sunday afternoon were absolutely disgraceful and I condemn the people involved in violence.