Hibs may reduce Old Firm allocation over flare use

Hibernian could reduce the ticket allocations for Rangers and Celtic fans if the trend for flares continues, says chief executive Ben Kensell.

He believes Hibs are not the only club considering reducing away allocations.

Visiting Rangers fans let off pyrotechnics in the away end at Easter Road in January and Celtic fans also did so earlier this month.

"As Hearts have, as other clubs have, it's our prerogative to reduce allocations if we wish - up to this point we haven't," he added.

Since last June it has been a specific criminal offence to possess a firework or other pyrotechnic at certain places or events - such as football matches, music concerts and festivals - in Scotland without reasonable excuse.

Eleven people were arrested at football matches for carrying or using pyrotechnics within six months of the new legislation being introduced.

A Scottish Premiership match between Dundee and Rangers earlier this season was halted for 18 minutes when flares engulfed Dens Park in smoke, setting off a fire alarm and forcing the players off the pitch.

Kick-off at last season's Scottish Cup semi-final between Celtic and Rangers at Hampden Park in April was delayed after fans set off flares inside the ground.