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6 months ago
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FURIOUS former Celtic manager Neil Lennon last night hit out at Parkhead fans after Rangers captain James Tavernier was targeted by missiles towards the end of yesterday’s Old Firm derby.
The Ibrox right-back was showered with objects — one of which was reportedly a marijuana grinder — as he prepared to take a corner in front of the area which houses the ultras element of the Celtic support.
The incident will no doubt become the subject of an investigation after Tavernier handed one item to referee Willie Collum.
Police became involved after a glass bottle was allegedly thrown at Matt O’Riley during the 3-3 draw between the derby rivals at Ibrox last month, with the Parkhead club approaching Rangers to express their concerns. And it remains to be seen what action is taken after scenes which left Lennon, in the commentary box for Sky Sports at the match, appalled.
‘It is totally wrong. It is unnecessary, it is awful,’ said Lennon. ‘Players’ safety on the football field is paramount for me.
James Tavernier picks up an object from the Celtic Park turf that was aimed in his direction
Tavernier hands the object to match referee Willie Collum in front of the watching Celtic fans
Match pundits Kris Boyd and Neil Lennon were outspoken in their criticism of missile-throwers
‘To see scenes like this angers me. He doesn’t deserve it. He is a footballer who is doing his job. Just leave him alone and let him get on with his football.
‘I don’t know what it was. I hear it’s a marijuana grinder or something like that. I don’t want to make light of it. It is unacceptable and we don’t want to see it.
‘What happens if he gets hit? What happens if he gets hit on the eye or gets a cut or something?’
Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd was working beside Lennon at the match and demanded an end to missiles being thrown in grounds as Rangers and Celtic put plans in place to welcome away fans back to Old Firm derbies next season.
‘Your team is winning,’ said Boyd. ‘You can shout abuse. We’ve all had it. But to start throwing things?
‘Touch wood, over the years, we have been lucky. I think the last one you can think of was Hugh Dallas getting hit with a coin (at Parkhead) as well. It doesn’t make it right. It needs to be stamped out.’
English (US)