Hibs receive apology from police

Hibs players celebrate at Tynecastle after the 2-1 win

Hibernian have received a police apology after criticism of their players' celebrations following last week's victory in the Edinburgh derby.

But Hibs have also agreed to take action against one player - thought to be captain Ian Murray.

The match commander had said that over-zealous celebrations by some Hibs players could have caused a riot.

But a joint statement said: "Supt Powell apologised if his comments had caused offence to the club or fans."

Hibs chairman Rod Petrie had demanding Tuesday's meeting with the police following remarks by Supt Powell in weekend newspapers.

They emerged from the meeting insisting that there had been a "constructive" dialogue "with both sides keen to ensure the safety of everyone attending football matches".

Superintendent Powell confirmed that the coin had not come from the stand occupied by Hibernian supporters Joint statement

"Superintendent Powell confirmed concerns about the actions of one Hibernian player after the final whistle which had been witnessed by one of his officers," said the statement.

"Superintendent Powell had not seen the incident himself.

"The club undertook to raise the matter with the player concerned and take appropriate action.

"Superintendent Powell confirmed that the player celebrations at the end of the game had been made to the Hibernian supporters while most of the Hearts fans were leaving the stadium."

Hibs told him that they had already disciplined a fan running on to the Tynecastle pitch.

"The club was able to report that it had already taken action against one of the individuals who had run on to the pitch to celebrate a goal in the match," said the statement.

"The individual concerned, having previously been warned as to his behaviour by the club, had his season ticket book confiscated at the Livingston match last Saturday.

"Enquiries were ongoing regarding the other pitch incursion."

Hibs had also discussed a report by referee John Rowbotham in which he says he was struck by a coin during the derby match.

"From the evidence available, Superintendent Powell confirmed that the coin had not come from the stand occupied by Hibernian supporters," the statement said.

Superintendent Powell said: "I am satisfied with the club's response to my concerns and we must now look towards reducing the tension for Saturday's derby at Easter Road.

"The police and the club will continue to work together to ensure the safety of all supporters."

Petrie added: "We all hope that, having cleared these matters from Tynecastle, we can look forward to Saturday's return fixture at Easter Road Stadium with confidence that there will be no untoward incidents involving players and supporters of either team."

Supt Powell had told the Edinburgh's Evening News that the behaviour of one player was "totally unacceptable and irresponsible" as he "started shouting and swearing and gesticulating" at Hearts fans.

The senior policeman was also critical of Rowbotham, who was struck by a coin thrown from the crowd, saying that the referee should have done more to defuse the highly-charged scene.