Celtic have accused the SFA of a "false equivalence" with Rangers after their stadium closure appeal was rejected

Celtic have criticised the SFA for drawing a "false equivalence" with Rangers following the rejection of their stadium closure appeal.

The cup holders brought their challenge to Hampden over sanctions imposed after chaotic scenes unfolded at Ibrox last season.

Supporters from both sides stormed the pitch following Celtic's penalty shootout victory over Rangers, with police and stewards required to step in to stop the violent disorder from worsening.

Both clubs were instructed that their next Scottish Cup home fixture would take place without spectators, and were required to compensate the opposition £100,000 for revenue losses.

They were also warned that an additional match would be held behind closed doors should any supporter misconduct occur at a cup fixture before the season's conclusion - though this condition has now been removed following the appeal, reports the Daily Record.

However, Celtic maintain they should not have faced identical sanctions to their rivals, arguing there exists a "very obvious distinction" between the incidents.

A statement read: "While we recognise that our appeal has been partially upheld, we remain extremely disappointed by this excessive and disproportionate punishment relating to an incursion by supporters at a moment of emotion and celebration.

"It continues to be our view that a false equivalence has been drawn in relation to the very different actions of two groups.

"We have not defended supporters entering the field of play and understand the part emotion plays in football. We would have expected this context and the very obvious distinction in behaviours to have been recognised.

"Additionally, the fact that Celtic Football Club had no responsibility for stadium safety arrangements also seems to have been disregarded in establishing these sanctions."