Celtic pitch invader sentenced

Updated 12.20 Fri Nov 02 2007

Keywords: AC Milan, Celtic, Robert McHendry

A man has been ordered to carry out 120 hours community service after a pitch invasion that marred Celtic's victory over AC Milan.

Robert McHendry, 27, ran on to the pitch and confronted visiting goalkeeper Dida as Celtic celebrated a last-minute winning goal against the reigning European champions in Glasgow last month.

He was ordered to carry out 120 hours of community service at Glasgow Sheriff Court

He was ordered to carry out 120 hours of community service at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

McHendry earlier admitted causing a breach of the peace at the October 3 match, saying he got "carried away" by the goal.

Millions watched on TV as the 27-year-old ran towards Dida. As he crossed the goalmouth, McHendry stuck out his arm and made contact with the player.

The Brazilian goalkeeper briefly chased after the fan but then collapsed theatrically to the ground.

McHendry handed himself in to police the morning after the incident, telling officers he rushed down the stand and on to the pitch as the winning goal was scored.

The court heard that the single father told police: "I was running over to celebrate with the team. As I was running by I tapped the keeper of AC Milan on the shoulder.

"I said 'Unlucky, Dida' and continued running towards the team."

Sentencing, Sheriff Craig Scott said: "The circumstances of this offence mean that serious consideration must be given to a sentence of imprisonment.

"However I am satisfied that in your particular case there's a direct alternative to imprisonment in the form of community service."