Police and SFA probe ‘attack’ on Rab Douglas

The SPFL have launched an investigation into events at the end of Forfar’s League 1 victory over Airdrie at the weekend after supporters invaded the pitch and allegedly attacked former Scotland goalkeeper Rab Douglas.

A band of Airdrie fans ran on to Station Park at full-time after Forfar’s 2-0 victory, which dented Airdrie’s hopes of securing a place in the promotion play-offs, and two appeared to confront Douglas before match stewards intervened.

Police Scotland have begun enquiries into the incident, which they are treating as an “alleged assault”.

It is expected that referee Euan Anderson will include the skirmish in his match report and a copy will be sent to the SPFL for their consideration.

The governing body will also write to both Forfar and Airdrie for their take on events, and speak to stewards and police about the match.

A spokesman for the SPFL said: “We can confirm we are investigating what happened in the Forfar-Airdrie game on Saturday and will be speaking to all the relevant parties.”

Douglas, however, appeared largely unperturbed by the attack. The 42-year-old former Celtic and Dundee No 1, who played 19 times for Scotland, claimed on social media he was spat at during the match but insisted “banter” with supporters is fine, as long as it does not spill over.

He said: “I love being close to the fans but tell them not to come into my box. That’s when you cross the line.

“Stay out of my area or if you are brave enough to come on then you have to accept what you get.”

With reference to a Dundee derby in 1998 when he wrestled a pitch invader to the ground, Douglas added: “I’ll always defend myself. I’ve played over 600 games and that’s only the second time that has ever happened to me.

“It shouldn’t happen at all but it did.”