Dundee FC has apologised to two Celtic fans after an Irish flag was taken from them during the weekend’s league defeat at Dens Park.
Television footage subsequently shared on social media showed a steward apparently reaching up and hauling the tri-colour flag down after it was draped over an advertising hoarding above an exit on Sunday afternoon.
Posts have also circulated showing one of the Celtic supporters jumping down after the flag immediately after the incident, and an argument also took place between fans and stewards over what had happened.
Anyone notice the steward take down the tri-colour and the boy jump straight down after it ????? pic.twitter.com/IhQPQQAtVW
— Adam O'Brian (@AOBrian95) March 17, 2019
Dundee bosses have now concluded their own investigation into the incident and the club has ruled that the manner in which the flag was seized was “not acceptable”.
A statement released by the Dark Blues said: “These enquiries have revealed a clear breakdown in communication and decision making and moving forward, this needs to be and will be addressed by the club in conjunction with all members of the event management team.
“Clearly, the method employed to remove the item from the advertising board was not acceptable and out with the agreed procedures for dealing with matters of this nature.
“The clubs and the two supporters involved have met and discussed the issue at great length and Dundee Football Club would wish to convey our sincere thanks for the cooperation of all concerned.”
The footage has been shared widely on social media sites including Twitter and Facebook, as has an angry exchange between a supporter and stewards which was also captured on camera.
You need to take back what belongs to you ?? #DUNCEL pic.twitter.com/Va8fIBbQMw
— Stephen Roberts ? (@Roberts1521) March 17, 2019
Dundee launched its own inquiries into the series of events and met supporters.
“In the spirit of the discussions which took place at this meeting, Dundee Football Club would wish to place on record our sincere apologies to the two supporters involved in this incident,” the club continued.
“We will always endeavour in future to strive to achieve a safe and secure environment for everyone here at the Kilmac Stadium at Dens Park.”
Celtic won Sunday’s league game 1-0 thanks to an injury time goal.
