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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Aidan Smith

Police launch Hibs vs Rangers pyro investigation as teens charged for objects thrown

Police Scotland and Hibernian have launched an investigation into pyrotechnic use at Wednesday’s Scottish Premiership match between the Edinburgh outfit and Rangers. 

Smoke bombs, flares and strobes were prevalent in the Easter Road stands as Michael Beale’s side ran out 4-1 winners in the league contest. 

Herald Sport can also exclusively reveal that two teenagers have been charged for throwing objects onto the field of play. 

Images from the match appear to show Rangers defender Borna Barisic surrounded by a coin, vodka bottle, lighter, and plastic cups, as he attempted to take a corner. 

The match was not halted and play continued as normal in the second half. 

A statement from Hibernian FC read: “Following every Hibernian FC match, the club undergoes an operational debrief process which runs through all aspects of the game including crowd behaviour.  

“The club will continue to investigate a number of instances that occurred during the match, and can confirm that two supporters have been charged so far.” 

Police Scotland added: “Two boys, aged 13 and 14, have been charged in connection with objects being thrown onto the pitch at Easter Road, during the Hibernian v Rangers match on the evening of Wednesday, March 8, 2023. 

“Officers are also carrying out enquiries into the use of pyrotechnics in the crowd during the match.” 

Both incidents come after police were called to investigate fan behaviour after Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin said he was hit by a coin during a game against his former club. 

Goodwin claimed other projectiles including a pie and a cup of juice were also thrown at him during the game against Aberdeen at Tannadice Park in Dundee on Saturday. 

Police said they are reviewing CCTV footage and engaging with the clubs to establish the circumstances. 

Speaking after the match Goodwin said: “I obviously wasn’t expecting a warm reception from the Aberdeen fans. But I was disappointed that there were coins and other projectiles getting chucked down on top of me. 

“There was a pie, a cup of juice, a couple of coins, and unfortunately one of them landed on the top of my head. 

“Thankfully it was nothing serious but not what you want when you go to your work. 

“I have to say that it is definitely just a minority. There are always a few bad eggs who tarnish the rest of the club. 

“Aberdeen is a terrific club and one of the best supported in the country – 2,500-3,000 of them down the road tonight supporting their team, but a few mindless idiots have us talking about stuff we don’t want to be talking about. 

“It was disappointing but I am not going to go over the top with it and I am sure it will be dealt with.” 

A Police Scotland spokesman said: “Officers are aware of media reporting around objects being thrown on to the pitch at Tannadice Park, during a match on the evening of Saturday 4 March 2023. 

“Whilst no reports have been made to Police Scotland, we are engaging with the clubs involved to establish the circumstances. 

“Inquiries are ongoing which will include a review of CCTV footage.” 

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