Ross County Denounce Fan Spitting Incident After Play-Off Drama

A Scottish Premiership play-off clash between Ross County and Livingston ended in controversy after an alleged fan spitting incident.

Heated Draw Ends in Ugly Scenes

Ross County earned a 1-1 draw at Livingston thanks to Ronan Hale’s 96th-minute penalty in a tense first-leg match.

Spitting Sparks Outrage Behind Dugout

Moments after the goal, a home fan allegedly spat at County assistant manager Carl Tremarco, triggering a heated confrontation near the dugout.

Manager Cowie Reacts With Disgust

Ross County boss Don Cowie confirmed the spitting incident, calling it “disgusting” and saying there’s “no place for that behavior.”

Staff Rushed to Defend Tremarco

Cowie explained that County staff instinctively moved to protect each other, but he personally attempted to de-escalate the situation peacefully.

CCTV Footage Under Review

The incident was caught on stadium CCTV, and Livingston FC have launched an investigation to identify and punish the offending supporter.

Livingston Club Responds Swiftly

Cowie praised Livingston for taking the matter seriously and ensuring proper steps will be taken through video evidence and club protocols.

Chief Executive Issues Firm Warning

Ross County chief executive Steven Ferguson backed Cowie’s stance, saying the Highland club “will not accept that kind of abuse.”

David Martindale Shares Disappointment

Livingston manager David Martindale did not see the incident but condemned it, calling it “vile,” “disgusting,” and “extremely disappointing.”

Match Result Sets Up Decisive Leg

Danny Wilson scored Livingston’s opener before Hale’s dramatic equalizer; the tie is now wide open for Monday’s second leg in Dingwall.

Top Flight Future On the Line

With Premiership survival at stake, both teams will need focus and discipline as the return leg determines next season’s top-flight lineup.

Clubs Must Confront Fan Misconduct

This incident reignites debate over football fan behaviour, with calls growing for stronger measures to prevent abuse and violence in stadiums.

Spitting: A Criminal Offense

Spitting at a person can be classified as assault in the UK, adding serious legal weight to the alleged incident’s implications.

Tremarco Shaken But Supported

Carl Tremarco is receiving full support from Ross County and will continue his duties as the club pursues justice through formal channels.

A Call for Calm in Football

As play-off tensions rise, clubs and supporters must remember football’s values—respect, passion, and integrity—not violence and unacceptable behaviour.

Footballing Authorities Watching Closely

The Scottish FA and SPFL are expected to monitor the situation and could intervene based on Livingston’s internal investigation findings.

High Stakes Bring High Emotions

Play-off football often brings drama, but such emotion must never cross the line into verbal or physical abuse of any kind.

Security Measures Under Scrutiny

The incident may prompt clubs across Scotland to review security protocols, especially near technical areas and away team dugouts.

Second Leg Brings Renewed Focus

Ross County and Livingston must now turn attention to football as they prepare for Monday’s crucial match in Dingwall.

Respect Must Prevail in Final Fixture

Regardless of the outcome, both clubs must ensure respect, professionalism, and fan safety are prioritised in the climactic second leg.

Spitting Incident Mars Ross County Play-Off at Livingston