A pair of Aberdeen fans have been banned from matches after they admitted being part of a mass brawl before a Premiership clash.
Dale McKeith and Aaron Grant were part of a mob that had to be dispersed and escorted to Dundee’s railway station by mounted police as tempers flared before a Dundee United v Aberdeen match last December.
Depute fiscal Ashley Pollock told Dundee Sheriff Court the pair had arrived by train in a group of around 65 Dons fans.
They were then monitored on CCTV making their way into the city centre.
Miss Pollock said: “As they approached the Main Street junction they started shouting and swearing towards rival supporters.
“There was further gesturing and shouting towards them, shouts of ‘come on then’ to Dundee United fans.
“Police then intervened to separate the two groups. This went on for a short time.
“Both groups were separated by police officers, including the mounted branch.
“They continued to shout, swear and threaten violence at this time.
“The group was escorted back to the train station by numerous officers.
“Inquiries were made and following a review of CCTV both accused were traced on January 27.”
McKeith, 26, of Lismore Gardens, Aberdeen, and Grant, 34, of Springburn Road, Aberdeen, pleaded guilty to behaving in a threatening and abusive manner by forming part of a disorderly crowd and repeatedly attempting to engage in violence towards rival fans.
Kris Gilmartin, defending both men, said: “They have not been attending matches to ensure there is no repeat.”
Sheriff Tom Hughes deferred sentence on the pair for six months to be of good behaviour.
He also imposed bail conditions banning them from attending any SPFL or SFA organised matches in Scotland ahead of that later sentencing date.
The match on December 14 last year was marred by violent scenes around Dundee before the game.
Police launched dawn raids on those suspected to be involved in incidents around the match.
Although there was no disorder within Tannadice Park during the match there were widespread reports of fighting and disorder.