Hundreds of fans descended on Glasgow Cross in the city centre after the team’s final game of the season against St Mirren on Saturday.

In what has become a regular occurrence in recent years, fans took over the area, which was eventually closed to traffic, with some fans climbing traffic lights and the Mercat Tower.

Police and the club had previously urged fans to stay away following disruption in recent years.

Police say there were nine arrests on Saturday, three in the stadium and a further six in the city centre.

Meanwhile, 15 people were charged with offences relating to carrying pyrotechnics or offensive weapons, as well as assault and public order offences and will be reported to the Procurator Fiscal.

A further six penalty notices and four recorded police warnings were handed out, officers say.

Chief superintendent Emma Croft, the divisional commander for the greater Glasgow division, said a “significant majority” of those in attendance were “highly intoxicated”.

“While some fans respected the appeal from police and partners to act responsibly, thousands didn’t and descended on Glasgow Cross, causing significant disruption to the city,” she said.

“This mass assembly of people also had an impact on some local businesses who took the decision to close early or completely as a consequence.

“A significant majority of those who congregated were highly intoxicated, with evidence of drug misuse requiring medical intervention. A number of people were admitted to local hospitals as a consequence.

“There were numerous incidents of anti-social behaviour, including the reckless discharge of pyrotechnics. Several people scaled the Mercat Tower and other street furniture requiring assistance.

“Officers took decisive action to clear the area and prevent further disorder when it was safe to do so. Thankfully, there were no reports of injuries to officers.

“We will continue to work with partners to achieve a safer and less disruptive way for fans to celebrate safely.”