Hearts withdrew their staff from Celtic Park after the third‑minute goal sparked a chaotic scene that the Edinburgh club called “deeply disturbing.” Players Cammy Devlin and Frankie Kent were seen in tears on return to Tynecastle, while officials struggled to confirm whether the match had officially ended. The club said safety forced an immediate, quickly arranged exit, abandoning post‑match media duties.

Earlier this season, Scottish football has seen pitch invasions at both Celtic and Rangers venues, most recently after a Scottish Cup quarter‑final at Ibrox. The SPFL said it will withhold comment until the match delegate’s report is reviewed, though officials reportedly blew the full‑time whistle before players left the field. Hearts demanded the strongest possible sanctions to protect the game’s integrity.

Despite the turmoil, Hearts’ season has captured national attention, with manager Derek McInnes and his squad praised for an inspiring campaign. The club reiterated that no player or staff member deserved the disgraceful scenes and called for decisive action from authorities. Their abrupt departure left the result unchanged, preserving the 2‑0 scoreline that had already sealed the win.