Police ring of steel around Ibrox

POLICE staged a massive security operation to prevent Old Firm violence marring Hogmanay – after the force’s chief put his reputation on the line over the controversial kick-off time.

Officers threw a ring of steel around Ibrox Stadium in Glasgow ahead of a kick-off which sparked massive controversy before a ball was even kicked.

The timing of the fixture, at the busiest time of year for the emergency services, sparked widespread criticism.

But Chief Con stable Phil Gormley made a dramatic intervention, saying he would shoulder the responsibility if the controversial kick-off time backfired.

“Ultimately, I’m accountable for everything Police Scotland does,” Mr Gormley said.

Mr Gormley and his senior officers insisted the event and its aftermath could be policed in a way that would keep fans and the public safe.

But it was unclear last night if the decision to let the game go ahead at 12.15pm had paid off.

As The Sunday Post went to press just three arrests had been made, while the emergency services and communities across the country held their breath, hoping fallout from the Old Firm battle would remain at a minimum.

Tension was high around the stadium before the game, with both sets of fans being closely monitored by an army of police.

Mounted officers lined the concourse outside the ground, shepherding Celtic supporters into the Broomloan Road Stand, while a long line of officers ensured rival fans were kept on separate sides of the road on approaches to the stadium.

Dozens of riot vans were also parked close to the ground, packed with specialist crowd control officers.

Even the Police Scotland force chaplain was on hand, making sure rain- lashed officers were supplied with Tunnock’s Caramel Wafers.

A minute’s silence to honour the 1971 Ibrox Stadium Disaster, in which 66 fans died, was largely observed by the 50,126 fans inside the ground.

However, one or two people yelled out in an apparent attempt to disrupt the tribute, before they were quickly shushed down.

There was another flashpoint, during the 33rd minute, when a green flare was hurled on to the pitch.

At the final whistle the Celtic squad rushed to their fans to celebrate their 2-1 win, while Rangers fans streamed out of the ground and into foul weather conditions.