Cops and SPFL chiefs pyro dread as Hampden chiefs make semi-final fireworks fear

Anxious cops and league bosses were locked in urgent talks yesterday amid fears that pyro wielding fans might target Hampden this weekend.

Police Scotland demanded the discussions with SPFL chiefs following Wednesday night’s dramatic scenes at Dens Park, when Dundee’s match against Rangers had to be suspended after dozens of flares were lit up by the away support. And they have expressed concerns of copycat pyrotechnic displays by rogue ‘ultras’ at this weekend’s showpiece Viaplay Cup semi finals.

Hibs take on Aberdeen at the national stadium tomorrow in a prime Saturday night TV slot before Hearts face Rangers in the second semi on Sunday afternoon. The double header comes as Dundee launch an investigation into the chaos which marred the Ibrox club’s 4-0 win - and with the Scottish government demanding that police do more to clamp down on the illegal use of flares and fireworks inside Scotland’s grounds.

And Record Sport understands the authorities are ‘not optimistic’ as they brace themselves for further off-field controversy over the next 72 hours. Rangers manager Phillipe Clement pleaded with the club’s supporters to bin all pyros in the immediate aftermath of his side’s win on Tayside.

Dundee, though, have launched a full security probe into the events which caused smoke alarms to go off, forcing both teams to return to their dressing rooms for almost 20 minutes. The club’s security officials are in talks with their own staff, Police Scotland, Rangers, the SPFL and local authorities and will go through a full review of the evening from pre-match to after the final whistle - and have also highlighted sectarian chanting and offensive banners.

A club statement confirmed: “Dundee Football Club are investigating