Police praise 'good spirits' as Scotland fans celebrate win over Haiti

Serious assault and disturbance reported in early hours of Sunday

Police Scotland have praised the “good spirits” and “responsible” behaviour of Scotland fans tuning in to watch the national side’s opening World Cup match.

The force said there were only a “couple of isolated incidents” reported surrounding the game against Haiti, which kicked off at 2am BST on Sunday morning.

With many bars and pubs across the country making use of extended licenses to stay open late, and fan zones set up to host larger groups of supporters, many revellers were out until past 4am celebrating Steve Clarke’s team as they secured a 1-0 victory.

Scotland fans celebrate in Glasgow's OVO Hydro as Steve Clark's men secured a vital win over Haiti. Picture: PA | PA

placeholder image — Scotland fans celebrate in Glasgow's OVO Hydro as Steve Clark's men secured a vital win over Haiti. Picture: PA | PA

The most serious incident was reported in Neilston, where a 37 year-old man was seriously assaulted. The victim was taken to hospital for treatment following the incident, which took place at around 3.40am in the East Renfrewshire village’s Main Street, and officers said enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of what happened.

In Inverness, a 30-year-old man was arrested and reported in connection with a disturbance. A police officer was assaulted during the incident but did not require medical treatment. The man is due to appear at Inverness Sheriff Court at a later date.

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The force’s Assistant Chief Constable Stuart Houston said: “I want to recognise the conduct of football fans across the country following Scotland's opening World Cup match.

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"In the early hours of Sunday, fan zones across the country welcomed supporters, with many establishments receiving extended licences. Police Scotland liaised with organisers in advance to help deliver a safe and secure environment for all to enjoy the occasion.

"Officers were deployed across Scotland as part of our proportionate policing plan and I'm delighted to say most reported fans in good spirits, conducting themselves in a responsible manner, with only a couple of isolated incidents requiring our involvement.”

He added: “We will continue to support our partner agencies and local businesses throughout the tournament, at what is an exciting time for Scottish football fans.”