Thugs will not get off Scot free

SCOTTISH football is set for crisis talks in an urgent bid to crack down on hooligans who are shaming the game.

The SPFL plan to hold a series of top-level discussions this week after being outraged by a spate of recent high-profile incidents in grounds around the country.

The move comes hot on the heels of ugly incidents in the last two televised top-flight matches – between Hearts and Hibs last Wednesday and St Mirren versus Rangers on Saturday.

Hearts keeper Zdenek Zlamal appeared to be punched by a fan before Hibs boss Neil Lennon was floored by a pound coin thrown at him from the Tynecastle main stand – with both linesman also targeted by the tossers.

Then Rangers striker Alfredo Morelos was struck by a 50p piece as he celebrated scoring his side’s second goal in Paisley – with claims that St Mirren keeper Craig Samson also dodged missiles launched at him from the away end.

Now – ahead of next weekend’s top-flight card – SPFL chief Neil Doncaster plans to head up a raft of emergency discussions with clubs, the SFA and police to crack down on the yobs and drive them out of the game.

A Hampden source said: “Enough is enough where these rogue elements are concerned. They have to realise they will be identified and arrested for behaving in such an unacceptable manner.

“There is no place for them in Scottish football and that’s why there is a need for a conversation about how best to deal with this issue.

“It’s extremely disappointing that a number of incidents have happened in recent times.

“Clearly throwing any object, especially coins, has the potential to do real harm.

“We’re keen to see as much action as possible being taken by clubs and the police to deal with the people who engage in this sort of activity.”