Celtic hit out as Hearts cut away ticket allocation for Tynecastle clash

Celtic have expressed “surprise and disappointment” after Hearts gave the Premiership champions a reduced away allocation for their league match at Tynecastle on November 29.

The teams are due to meet in Gorgie for the second time this season, with Celtic having defeated Hearts 7-1 last month at Parkhead.

It will be the first clash between them in Edinburgh this season and in a communication to their fans, Celtic revealed that they have been given approximately 20 per cent less tickets than is usually the case.

Celtic will have 508 supporters for their next match against Hearts. | SNS Group

A statement from Celtic read: “We have been informed by Heart of Midlothian FC that we will receive an allocation of 508 tickets for our forthcoming match at Tynecastle Stadium at the end of this month.

“Clearly we are surprised and disappointed at this move, which represents another cut of around 20% on our previous allocation and follows significant reductions across recent years.

“However, to be very clear, this is outwith our control and is the decision of the home club.”

Celtic pipped Hearts to the Premiership title last season, defeating the Jambos 3-1 at Parkhead on the final day of the season.

The end of the match was marred by a pitch invasion by some Celtic supporters, with fans accosting Hearts players on the field of play. The visiting players left the stadium still in their kit, having not showered or conducting post-match interviews.

Celtic currently lead the Premiership by four points under manager Martin O’Neill, with Hearts under Wouter Vrancken in fourth place, 11 points behind but with a game in hand.