St Johnstone explain Celtic flag ban
Celtic fans have reacted angrily to the decision with some suggesting that a boycott be called as the club’s travelling support is again singled out for special treatment.
The pyro threat is being used to justify the ban but with the high number of police and stewards at matches that problem should easily be eradicated as it was for Celtic’s recent Scottish Cup trip to Tynecastle.
Police Scotland issued a statement after the match at Motherwell highlighting eighteen smoke bombs but seem slow in identifying the culprits despite extensive video footage in the South Stand at Fir Park.
Explaining the flag ban the St Johnstone statement said: “Supporters will be aware that, regrettably, there has been a significant increase in the letting off of flares, smoke bombs and other pyrotechnics at games across the country this season.
“These are inherently unsafe not only for those around the devices but also for spectators in general, particularly those who suffer from breathing disorders. They also have the potential to set seats alight and cause flags to burn.
“St Johnstone FC and Celtic FC fully support Police Scotland in their attempts to eradicate this nuisance from our game and as part of the planning process for this match between the three parties and other agencies, and as there have been several instances of flags being used as cover for the igniting of these devices, a decision has been taken that for this specific fixture flags and banners will not be permitted inside McDiarmid Park.
“Fans are asked to be considerate of this requirement in the interest of their own safety and the safety of others.”
The St Johnstone statement added: “As with all fixtures, alcohol, containers, smoke bombs and pyrotechnic flares are not permitted in the ground and again, appropriate action will be taken against anyone in possession of such items who is breaching ground safety regulations or involved in any criminal activity.
“Police officers will be active outside the ground to prevent the misuse of alcohol and there will be stop checks carried out on supporters’ buses en route to the game.
“With road works ongoing on the local network, supporters are also advised to allow plenty of time for travel to the game to ensure that they arrive at the ground in plenty of time to be inside for kick-off.”
With limited public transport and the game live on television it seems certain that Police Scotland will have only a small number of visiting supporters to turn their attention on.