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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
David Irvine

Dundee condemn 'unacceptable' behaviour during Rangers clash as investigation ongoing

Dundee chiefs have slammed "unacceptable actions" in the stands during the match against Rangers last night.

The match at Dens Park had to be suspended just minutes after kick-off after a huge pyro display in the Rangers end.

Players from both teams were ordered to leave the pitch after smoke alarms were set off following the pyrotechnics being set off.

Police Scotland are carrying out retrospective enquiries into the matter with the SPFL also slamming the scenes. No arrests were made at the match.

Now, Dundee have confirmed an investigation is underway after the behaviour in the stands during the Scottish Premiership contest.

In a strongly-worded statement, club chiefs blasted "flares, offensive banners and singing of sectarian songs" as issues evident in Scottish football.

A club statement read: "Dundee Football Club are investigating and working with the relevant authorities after a series of unacceptable actions in the stands at last night’s match at The Scot Foam Stadium at Dens Park against Rangers.

"Despite robust practice by all clubs in the SPFL and the SFA at Hampden, flares, offensive banners and singing of sectarian songs continue to be a problem all across our game in Scottish Football.

"As we are working with the authorities we are unable to comment on the situation at this time. The club will comment further once the ongoing investigation has taken place and concluded."

Superintendent Iain Wales said: “The safety of the public and officers is our priority.  Due to a number of pyrotechnics, including smoke bombs and flares being set off in the stands, the game was stopped. Players were removed from the pitch and returned a short time later.

“Taking pyrotechnics into a football stadium is not only an offence, it is extremely dangerous. It is tremendously disappointing and worrying that despite repeated warning about the risk, these are still brought to matches.

“Luckily there were no reports of any injuries, however the consequences could have been much worse. It’s only a matter of time before someone is seriously injured.

"Although no arrests were made at the game, retrospective enquiries are being carried out. The investigation is ongoing and we are working closely with both clubs to identify those responsible. Anyone with information that may assist our enquiries should contact 101 quoting reference number 2815 of 2 November.”

An SPFL statement read: “The extensive use of pyrotechnics at the match at Dens Park is very concerning and unwelcome.

"The disruption to the game is obviously extremely regrettable.

"We await the delegate report and will be liaising with Police Scotland on the incident.”

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