adminRangers and Celtic have challenged SFA sanctions requiring both clubs to stage their next home Scottish Cup matches behind closed doors.
The Glasgow giants are also contesting £100,000 fines imposed on each club after supporters clashed on the pitch following last season’s quarter-final at Ibrox.
Having been warned they could be ordered to play a second home fixture without supporters if there is further unacceptable behaviour, Celtic issued a statement describing the punishment as ‘disproportionate’, while Rangers said they would ‘consider the outcome in full.’
Both clubs have now submitted disciplinary appeals, with the hearings scheduled for Monday, October 26.
Trouble erupted after Celtic progressed to last season’s semi-final by defeating Rangers on penalties at Ibrox on March 8.
Celtic supporters entered the pitch in celebration, while a number of Rangers fans crossed the halfway line to confront them.
Police Scotland have made 43 arrests following clashes between supporters, with officers and stewards also injured. Objects and pyrotechnics were thrown, while an independent review commissioned by the Scottish FA concluded that a “crushing incident was a real and foreseeable risk” because of “non-compliant Ultra group fans surging past police and stewards”.
Following the SFA punishment, Celtic said: “We are shocked by this disproportionate punishment for a relatively small incursion by Celtic supporters at a moment of emotion and celebration.
“Our club has never defended supporters entering the field of play and we have repeatedly taken action when it occurs.
“However, we understand the part emotion plays in football and would have expected the context and distinction in behaviours to have been taken into account by the panel.
“Another important distinction is that, on this occasion, Celtic were not the home club, responsible for stadium safety arrangements.
“We will study the panel’s report and reasoning when it is available and will thereafter consider our next steps.”
Rangers said: “We note the decision of the Scottish FA tribunal published today and will now consider the outcome in full, including its implications, before determining any further steps.”
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