Two shamed St Johnstone stars are facing tough disciplinary action after brawling during the club’s Scottish Premiership match with Hamilton.
A scoreless game was approaching half time when Danny Swanson and Richard Foster lost control.
Football was forgotten as they became involved in an angry verbal spat on the field.
As teammates looked on in horror and fans in bewilderment, Foster appeared to throw a punch at his teammate.
Swanson – one of Saints star players this season – then retaliating with what appeared to be a kick to the face of the former Aberdeen and Rangers defender.
Players and backroom staff then became involved in a melee on the pitch as referee Don Robertson and his fellow officials attempted to calm the chaos.
Half time was called moments after the two battling players were separated.
Unfortunately for Saints, the two players are understood to have continued their battle in the tunnel.
Stunned Saints fans awaited news of the action being taken by officials during half time.
When the game restarted, the referee’s decision was obvious as Saints resumed with just nine men.
Both Foster and Swanson were shown red cards during the break.
The sendings-off and violent conduct of the two players are likely to end with harsh penalties for the duo and the club.
Officials will be looking closely at the match officials’ report in the coming days.
The club may also take swift internal action against the pair.
It is the second time in just four days that brawls have stunned Scottish football.
Hibs boss Neil Lennon and Morton boss Jim Duffy were involved in angry confrontations during the sides’ Championship draw on Wednesday evening.
They also traded verbal blows in the days after the match.
