GLASGOW, Scotland (AP) — There will be no away fans in all matches between fierce Scottish rivals Celtic and Rangers this season.
The decision was taken Friday by the Scottish Professional Football League, the body which runs the country’s league and cup competitions.
It comes after a review of the disorder that marred the Scottish Cup quarterfinal match between the Old Firm teams in March, for which Celtic was allowed a full allocation of away fans — about 8,000 — under competition rules.
After a penalty shootout won by Celtic, fans of both teams came onto the field, flares were thrown and there were several altercations. Police and stewards had to form a barrier to restore order. A total of 43 arrests have since been made.
It means neither team will have traveling supporters for the Scottish Premiership games, or their Scottish League Cup meeting at Rangers’ Ibrox stadium on Sept. 13. It will also be the case if the teams were to meet in the Scottish Cup competition.
The Scottish Football Association announced last month that Rangers and Celtic will have to play their next Scottish Cup matches behind closed doors as a punishment for the disorder in March.
The SPFL has described the ban on away fans as a “temporary arrangement” that is subject to review.
The Old Firm rivalry is traditionally one of the most heated and intense in world soccer.
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