Source: FOOTYMAD
Exclusion zones introduced for Celtic visit
Hearts are taking no chances and have increased the protection for tnhose working in the technical areas. Hearts do not want a repeat of the incident when Celtic manager Neil Lennon was attacked by a fan at Tynecastle. A supporter made it to the touchline and approached Lennon who was in the technical area watching the game on 11 May. The fan was bundled away before he could attack Lennon but Hearts have learnt their lesson. As a result of the incident, Celtic's ticket allocation will be reduced by around 400 for the next game on 1 October to create two 'clear' zones in the Roseburn Stand. There will also be an increase in the number of stewards around both dug-out areas. Fans have been told of the changes in a letter from the club. A statement from the club read: "Hearts has written to supporters outlining actions which the club will take next season to help eradicate unacceptable behaviour at Tynecastle Stadium. The move comes following Hearts' own investigation into the events which marred the Clydesdale Bank Premier League game with Celtic on May 11. Included in the letter to the fans is confirmation of a life-ban for the supporter who allegedly assaulted Neil Lennon and news that the club will reduce the Parkhead outfit's ticket allocation by around 400 for the next match at Tynecastle, scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 1. This will create two 'clear' zones at the lower corners of the Roseburn Stand which will help reduce potential flashpoints. The lower Main Stand and Wheatfield Stand Lower G will now only be accessible to season ticket holders, with no matchday ticket sales available in these areas. With the club keen to ensure there is no repeat of the scenes of last month, there will also be increased stewarding around both dugouts." A Hearts spokesperson said: "These plans will be put in place in advance of the next match versus Celtic at Tynecastle and have the support of both the police and the stewards. We will not tolerate anti-social behaviour of any sort by home or away fans."
