An intense Edinburgh derby match ended in a draw between Hearts and Hibs, but the excitement on the pitch was overshadowed by an ugly incident in the crowd. During the game, a Hearts player, James Penrice, was struck by an object thrown from the stands as he was preparing to take a throw-in near the Hibs fans. The incident caused a moment of disruption and concern, as the player had to jolt forwards after being hit.
The object was then retrieved by the referee, who handed it over to an official. Television pictures showed that the item resembled a vape, highlighting the seriousness of the issue. Hibs manager Neil Lennon expressed his disappointment and concern over the incident, emphasizing the need for players to feel safe in their playing environment. He condemned the act as cowardly, dangerous, and illegal, tarnishing the reputation of the game.
Former Hearts defender Ryan McGowan echoed Lennon’s sentiments, expressing disappointment that the actions of one individual could reflect poorly on the entire fan base. He stressed that such behavior not only endangers the safety of players but also distracts from the positive aspects of the game, such as young players scoring their first derby goals.
The incident has not gone unnoticed, with both Hibs and Hearts yet to release an official statement addressing the issue. The lack of response from the clubs leaves fans and onlookers wondering about the consequences and measures that will be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future. It is crucial for football clubs to take a strong stance against such behavior to protect the integrity and safety of the game.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining respect and sportsmanship in football, both on and off the pitch. Fans play a significant role in shaping the image of the game, and it is essential for everyone involved to uphold the values of fair play and camaraderie. As the football community reflects on this incident, it is a chance to reaffirm the commitment to creating a positive and safe environment for players, coaches, and supporters alike.