A Rangers fan who invaded the pitch during a heated football game in Brechin last year said he was trying to give players “a cuddle”.
Raymond Forbes was given a football banning order for his behaviour during a close-fought game between Brechin City and Rangers at Glebe Park.
Glaswegian Forbes, 29, was banned from seeing his team at any away fixtures for six months after appearing at Forfar Sheriff Court.
The court heard how the away team fought back from being 3-1 down level at 3-3 in front of a crowd of 3,500 supporters.
Depute fiscal Hannah Kennedy said a last-minute goal, taking Rangers into the lead, caused the visiting fans to become jubilant.
“A group of fans rushed to the front of the stand as players celebrated, and Forbes fell over the wall segregating the pitch from the stand,” she said.
Forbes then ran forward to celebrate with the players.
His defence agent Bob Bruce said the action was “tomfoolery” that would not normally be associated with most banning orders.
“His intention wasn’t to go on to the pitch, but when he was there he ran on to the park and gave them a cuddle,” he said.
Sheriff Kevin Veal admonished Forbes as no alcohol was involved but granted the banning order.
“(This order) is not just to protect against violence, it’s to protect against disorder,” he said.
Forbes, of Wellshot Road, Glasgow, admitted conducting himself in a disorderly manner on October 19 at Glebe Park, Brechin, in that he ran on to the pitch and committed a breach of the peace.