Police are asking fans attending the Hearts vs Hibs derby on Halloween to conduct themselves in a responsible manner.
The teams will meet at Tynecastle tonight in the Scottish Premiership fixture, with a sell-out crowd expected at the match.
Officers will be assisting stewarding staff to conduct searches of those entering the stadium prior to the 7.45pm kick-off.
Fans are reminded that flares, drugs, alcohol, pyrotechnics or items that could cause harm if thrown, are strictly forbidden. Those who attempt to bring in prohibited items will not be allowed in the ground and are likely to face further consequences.
Inspector Murray Starkey, Match Commander, said: “We want people to enjoy the game in the right spirit and would ask all those attending to behave in a responsible manner.
“Fans are asked to ensure they arrive in plenty of time ahead of the match to assist with searches and prevent delays getting into the ground.
“Please bear in mind that committing an offence linked to this fixture could result in a banning order prohibiting you from attending matches for the rest of the season and beyond.
“We look forward to an enjoyable evening for those attending and thank fans in advance for their cooperation.”
Both teams have injury worries as they prepare for the first derby of the season.
Interim captain Steven Naismith became the latest in a lengthy list of casualties when he was injured during Sunday’s League Cup semi-final with Celtic. With Christophe Berra, John Souttar and Uche Ikpeazu all long-term absentees Sean Clare and Craig Wighton could see themselves drafted into the starting line-up.
Hibs may also be missing their captain(s) for the derby. David Gray, Paul Hanlon and Thomas Agyepong missed Hibs latest match against Celtic with injuries and all remain doubts for tonight. Emerson Hyndman also has an ankle knock and may struggle to make the derby line-up.
Hearts haven’t lost a Derby at Tynecastle for five and a half years and their formidable home form is one of the reasons the Jambos sit proudly at the top of the league. A draw may the the best result away fans can hope for this evening – but who would be daft enough to predict the outcome of an Edinburgh Derby?
I can see tomorrow’s headlines already: Halloween horror show for Hearts … or maybe Hibs!
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