Pitch invasion follows Hibernian's Scottish Cup success
Saturday 21 May 2016 18:27, UK
Hibernian's long-awaited Scottish Cup success was marred by a pitch invasion at Hampden Park.
After the Edinburgh club had netted two late goals to beat Rangers 3-2, Hibs supporters took to the field to celebrate their first Scottish Cup success in more than 100 years.
In scenes reminiscent of Scotland fans taking to the Wembley turf in 1977, following a 2-0 win over England, some jumped onto a crossbar while police - many on horses - came onto the field.
Rangers issued a statement at the end which said the club was "shocked at the disgraceful behaviour of Hibs fans at full time."
It claimed: "Rangers players and staff were assaulted by these fans who invaded the pitch. The club would like to commend Rangers fans for the restraint showed under severe provocation."
Hibs had gone into the match hoping to bring some cheer to a season that promised much but was appearing to end in disappointment.
In March, they were beaten by a last-minute Ross County goal in the Scottish League Cup final and only last week they conceded a late goal to Falkirk in a two-legged promotion play-off match.
And on Saturday they trailed Rangers 2-1 with just 10 minutes remaining before Anthony Stokes levelled matters with a bullet header from a corner.
As the game moved into injury time, it became Hibs' turn to net a late winner with David Gray heading the third goal - also from a corner.
But as Hibs began to enjoy a first Scottish Cup triumph since 1902 - since when they have lost 10 finals - fans raced onto the pitch.
Police kept the fans mainly in one half of the arena before slowly clearing the playing surface ahead of the trophy presentation.
Winning manager Alan Stubbs, who waved away the on-rushing Hibs supporters, said afterwards: "I wish all the fans had left the pitch so we could celebrate it properly.
"We don't condone what has just happened but that is 114 years of hurt. Everyone's safety is the most important thing.
"I can understand the euphoria that surrounded it. I don't condone it but I understand it.
"Whatever comes our way we will take it on the chin but it will not take away the pleasure and pride of what we have just achieved."
