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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
Sport
Ewan Paton

SFA & SPFL issue joint Hampden pyro warning after Rangers fans' flares

The Scottish FA and SPFL have issued a joint statement urging supporters of Hibernian, Aberdeen, Rangers and Hearts to refrain from using pyrotechnics this weekend.

The four Premiership sides will meet at Hampden for the semi-finals of the Viaplay Cup on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon respectively. 

Fans attending the games have been reminded that the use of pyro at football games is illegal, and therefore could lead to the involvement of Police Scotland.

The entire away end at Dens Park was illuminated red on Wednesday night as a large amount of flares were set off by Rangers fans ahead of their game against Dundee. This display forced the players off the pitch and caused further delays to the fixture which had already been pushed back.

This sparked concerns from the Scottish football authorities and police ahead of this weekend's League Cup semis in Glasgow's south side.

Now, the SFA and SPFL have joined forces to urge fans to enjoy the game safely and not to endanger any fellow supporters by using pyro at Hampden.

A statement reads: "Ahead of this weekend’s Viaplay Cup semi-finals at Hampden Park, the Scottish FA and Scottish Professional Football League call on supporters to enjoy the showpiece occasions in a safe and responsible manner.

"Given the increased focus on the use of pyrotechnics, we appeal to fans of all four participating clubs to enjoy the matchday experience at the National Stadium but to do so in a manner that does not endanger the safety of their fellow supporters, or that has the potential to disrupt the matches themselves.

"The use of pyrotechnics is illegal. That message has been reiterated in the strongest possible terms by the police and football safety authorities, and reinforced by the SPFL and Scottish FA, during operational meetings with the participating clubs this week. 

"The safety, security and enjoyment of tens of thousands of fans who will fill the National Stadium this weekend is paramount and there will be a range of steps put in place to help identify anyone who transgresses, including additional security measures and CCTV surveillance.

"We ask for your help in ensuring the weekend action is memorable for the excitement and entertainment generated on the field and not for any unwanted behaviour off it."

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