Celtic will impose life bans on supporters who disrupted yesterday's Old Firm clash with Rangers at Parkhead. Rangers regained the Scottish League title from Celtic with ugly scenes marring the match. Supporters invaded the pitch and referee Hugh Dallas and a steward were both struck by objects thrown from the North Stand.

Celtic PR manager Peter McLean said: "Four fans entered the field of play and as well as facing criminal charges they will be banned from Celtic Park for life. Other incidents will be the subject of an inquiry by the club, using closed circuit TV. The club very much regrets the events of this evening."

Dallas was cut on the forehead after 41 minutes as coins were hurled from the crowd. Celtic physio Brian Scott treated the bloodied official who was able to continue, but had four stitches at half-time.

Celtic, who lost 3-1, finished the match with nine men, with Stephane Mahe and Vidar Riseth both sent off. Rangers striker Rod Wallace was dismissed four minutes from time as the club sealed their 48th championship victory.

After the match, trouble flared outside the ground. A Strathclyde Police spokeswoman said there had been 34 arrests, for offences ranging from breach of the peace to drinking in a public place.

Neil McCann, who set Rangers on their way with the opening goal and wrapped up victory with his second, admitted that he had been scared just before half-time when fans ran on to the pitch.

"It was quite frightening," said McCann. "After all it's just two sets of players, playing a game. I suppose you can understand it with the type of history there is between the two clubs. We knew how Celtic fans would get behind the team.

"All you have to do in a situation like that is concentrate and get on with your game. We always had belief we could come here and win and personally it's a game I will never forget as long as I live."

The Scottish Football Association is expected to this morning announce a probe into the violent scenes surrounding yesterday's match.