SFA probe timeline into Rangers and Celtic chaos emerges as clubs brace for verdict

The clubs could be sweating it for more than two weeks as the SFA reviews the evidence

It could take more than two weeks before the Scottish Football Association concludes its investigation into the chaos that marred Sunday’s Rangers vs Celtic clash.

The governing body were first off the mark when they released a statement after the Scottish Cup clash, condemning the behaviour of supporters who ran on to the field after the Hoops’ penalty shootout win.

The SFA confirmed they had opened their own probe and the compliance officer has started to gather evidence and the relevant reports.

Once all that information has been gathered and assessed, the compliance officer is expected to present the case for Judicial Panel review.

The time for that, for a non-fast track case is normally a fortnight.

Some Celtic fans spilled on to the pitch during the celebrations and some Rangers supporters also confronted their rival supporters, players and staff.

Stewards and police had to form a on-field barrier between the rival groups.

Flares were also thrown into the away end. It also remains to be seen if Celtic and Rangers also cooperate with the authorities.

Police Scotland has confirmed a number of arrests of have already been made. Chief Superintendent Kate Stephen said the behaviour of a number of fans: “Must be condemned by everyone involved in football and wider society.”

She said: “A number of arrests have already been made, and Police Scotland will now work with both clubs and the Scottish Football Association to carry out a robust investigation following the scenes on the pitch at the conclusion of the match.

“Officers and stewards were faced with extreme hostility and violence over a sustained period, with many individuals having armed themselves with items clearly intended to cause harm.’

It was revealed on Sunday night thousands of pounds of damage had been done to the Broomloan Road, which host the Celtic support.

The Glasgow giants had recently banned away supporters but had let in limited number in recent games.

That figure rose to 7,500 for yesterday’s game because it was a Scottish Cup tie.

Online footage showed a small minority of away supporters opening the fire escape and allowing other fans to force their way in.

The SFA will review those security arrangements before they decide on what action to take and what punishments to hand out.