Celtic F.C. captain Callum McGregor has addressed the fiery scenes that unfolded at full-time following the 2-2 draw with Rangers F.C. at Ibrox Stadium.
The Parkhead side mounted a spirited comeback from two goals down to earn a share of the spoils in the derby, with Reo Hatate converting at the third attempt after seeing his initial penalty saved late in the game.
However, tempers flared as soon as the final whistle sounded, with players from both teams clashing in the middle of the pitch.
Tuur Rommens and Tomas Cvancara were seen confronting each other at close quarters, while Viljami Sinisalo, Nico Raskin and Julian Araujo were also involved in the heated exchange.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill stepped in to calm the situation, urging his players to pull away from the confrontation. Danny Rohl also signalled to his squad to retreat as emotions threatened to boil over after the dramatic stalemate.
Reflecting on the incident during an interview with Sky Sports, McGregor insisted the clash was a by-product of the intensity surrounding derby fixtures and the tight title race.
He said: “It’s high stakes. Everyone knows what’s at risk — livelihoods and the passion people have for the club. There’s always emotion in these games and sometimes it spills over.
“It’s about staying calm, staying disciplined and making sure everyone keeps their heads because it’s an emotional title race.
“There are three teams in it, four if you include Motherwell as well.
“We’ll need discipline and togetherness. The key is remaining composed and continuing to do the things that have brought us success before.”
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