A report in the Scottish Sun this afternoon contains some vital information for Celtic fans in Rome.
The Hoops supporters have reportedly been warned to leave the city centre an incredible five hours before kickoff. That would see fans leaving the centre at around 2pm local time.
The Sun has stated that a shuttle service will be on offer to Celtic supporters at that time. The visiting section of the ground will then apparently open at 3pm, where strict security checks will take place.
The source believes that Celtic fans will be kept inside the stadium until at least one-hour after kick-off. They will then be escorted back into Rome before making their respective journeys home. Here’s what the Sun’s insider has stated:
“It will take time to get thousand of Celtic fans through the security checks at the stadium. But the main reason for the timing of the buses is to ensure fans dry out, sober up and minimise the risk of disorder.”
Fans have a duty to represent the club appropriately
The Celtic fanbase is one of the proudest in world football. We take huge pride in our club, and those who go to European away matches go the extra mile quite literally.
However, it’s vital the fans follow the official security procedures put in place for their safety. Considering what happened two weeks ago with the Lazio fans in Glasgow, it’s right to take the necessary precautions. (Sky News).
Regardless, it doesn’t matter who started what. The fact is supporters in Italy have to be careful. The five-hour gap between leaving the city and the game starting may seem excessive. However, you can’t really argue if it’s putting safety first.
Hopefully, the number of disturbances in Rome are minimal. If everyone gets back safe and sound, the procedures will heave worked well.
When it’s all said and done, matters on the pitch must be what we’re talking about. There’ll likely be enough talking points to come from the match as opposed to what happens away from it.
But Celtic fans in Rome have their orders. Let’s just hope everything goes smoothly enough.
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