SPFL tipped to hit Celtic with points deduction as ‘photographic evidence’ surfaces from Hearts title clash

Celtic F.C. are expected to face disciplinary action following the pitch invasion during their dramatic title-clinching victory over Hearts, with former football executive Keith Wyness predicting a suspended points deduction alongside a financial penalty.

The controversy erupted after supporters flooded onto the pitch following a late goal from Callum Osmand, whose stoppage-time strike sealed the Scottish Premiership crown for Celtic. Hearts had entered the final day needing only a draw to secure the title, making the late drama even more significant.

Questions have since emerged over whether referee Don Robertson had officially ended the match before fans entered the field. While the SPFL later clarified that the game was completed rather than abandoned, uncertainty surrounding the final whistle has continued to fuel debate.

The incident also revived concerns about crowd behaviour after a previous pitch invasion during Celtic’s Scottish Cup clash with Rangers earlier in the season, when supporters from both clubs entered the field following the Old Firm encounter.

Wyness, who previously served as chief executive at Aberdeen and later held senior roles at Everton and Aston Villa, argued that stronger action is needed to discourage repeat incidents. He claimed to have seen photographic material allegedly showing Celtic players and substitutes entering the pitch before play had fully stopped and prior to the decisive third goal being scored.

Despite that, Wyness believes Scottish football authorities are unlikely to impose the harshest punishment. Instead, he expects Celtic to receive a substantial fine alongside a suspended points deduction for next season, suggesting governing bodies may prefer to avoid escalating the situation further.

The former executive also suggested that harsher consequences would send a stronger message, arguing that only decisive action will discourage future invasions. He pointed to repeated incidents this season as evidence that football authorities need to take a firmer stance on supporter conduct.

Away from the controversy, Celtic have shifted attention toward their upcoming Scottish Cup final against Dunfermline Athletic F.C. at Hampden Park, which could mark the final game in charge for interim manager Martin O’Neill.

With O’Neill’s current agreement set to expire this summer, Celtic are widely expected to appoint a permanent manager after the campaign ends. Wyness has also suggested the experienced coach should transition into a behind-the-scenes football role rather than remain in the dugout, particularly given the vacancy left after Paul Tisdale departed his football operations role earlier this year.