Celtic Park ‘Green Brigade’ section could close

CELTIC have threatened to close down the matchday home of the ‘Green Brigade’ supporters’ group, after Tuesday’s match against Cliftonville saw the referee ask fans to stop launching fireworks.

A Green Brigade banner on display before April's game with Hibs. Picture: Ian Rutherford

Section 111 houses the fans, who model themselves after the ‘ultras’ seen creating displays and banners at games across Europe. However, Celtic have faced scrutiny from Glasgow City Council over some of the behaviour seen in the section, and have decided to take action.

Celtic state that repeated instances of overcrowding, non-compliance with stewards, blocking of aisles, ‘moshing’ and crowd surfing could result in the section being closed and the Brigade moved elsewhere, with the referee’s intervention seemingly the final straw.

In a statement, Celtic said: “Following the events of last Tuesday’s match, the Club’s position was to close Section 111, but following discussions between the Club’s Supporters’ Liaison Officer and representatives of the ‘Green Brigade’ that decision has been reviewed and the section will remain open.

“However, the situation will be monitored at both the Celtic FC v Borussia Monchengladbach match on Saturday 27th July, and the Celtic FC v IF Elfsborg match on Wednesday, July 31.

“The Club is keen to work with spectators in Section 111 to resolve safety concerns. However, it should be understood that failure to stop this unsafe behaviour will require the closure of this area in Celtic Park.

The Green Brigade’s website describes the group as “politically orientated”, and claims the Brigade have the backing of other Celtic fans.

The group said: “Despite problems in the past from police, security and the club in their attempts to curtail and water us down, the Green Brigade continues to enjoy the support and backing of the Celtic support on the whole.”