Hibs to reduce away allocations against Rangers and Celtic amid 'abhorrent behaviour and chanting'

Hibernian have revealed that they will reduce the number of away fans allowed into Easter Road for future games against Rangers and Celtic over what they call “abhorrent behaviour and chanting” from some visiting supporters.

In a statement released on Monday the Edinburgh club said unacceptable conduct has “become rife” in the Scottish game in recent seasons.

They cited the use of pyrotechnics, sectarian chants and objects being thrown onto the field of play as some of the examples of this behaviour which they say is “simply not good enough”.

As a result of this the club have came to the decision to reduce away allocations for games played at their stadium going forward.

STV News understands that the two Glasgow clubs will be the only clubs affected and away allocations for the Edinburgh Derby will remain the same.

The statement said: “Over recent years supporters’ unacceptable conduct has become rife in Scotland whether that be through the use of pyrotechnics, sectarianism, objects being thrown onto the field of play or through other actions.

“This is simply not good enough.

“Understanding that the behaviour of certain sections of Hibernian FC’s own support has not been good enough at times this season, the club has been taking the strongest possible action against those who behave in an unacceptable manner, working with Police Scotland and colleagues at other clubs.

“Hibernian FC now implores other clubs to act in a similar fashion and the governing bodies to take serious consideration into the issues to ensure Scottish football is safe and welcoming for all.

“Following fan behaviour and chanting from opposing teams this season, the Club’s Board of Directors will be reducing the away allocation at Easter Road moving forward, alongside taking further actions.

“Football is a sport for all, and stadiums should be a place where families and friends can come together to support their team. Hibernian FC prides itself on being a club for everyone regardless of race, ethnicity, colour, gender, religion, creed, and sexual orientation. Everyone should be able to feel safe and comfortable attending a football match.

“The clubs board of directors will be reducing the away allocation at Easter Road moving forward”

The Press Association say Hibs came under pressure from their own fans to take action following sectarian chants from Rangers supporters during the visitors’ 2-0 Scottish Cup win on Sunday.

The singing continued during a lengthy spell of treatment for winger Martin Boyle, who was taken to hospital with concussion.