Police forced to break up incredible 20-man touchline bust-up between Hamilton and Hearts players and coaches

POLICE waded into a furious touchline rammy at Tynecastle that saw more than 20 players and coaches clash during the match between Hearts and Hamilton.

Jambos coach Austin MacPhee grappled with Accies ace Darian MacKinnon during the bust-up before being SENT OFF.

Reports claimed the bust-up began after MacPhee chucked the ball away as MacKinnon went to take a throw-in.

Hamilton boss Martin Canning was also caught up in the chaos as ref Bobby Madden, a cop and a steward trying their best to calm the situation down.

In their match updates, the BBC said: “When the ball runs out for a throw in, Hearts coach Austin MacPhee picks it up and then tangled with Accies midfielder Darian MacKinnon, with both falling to the ground.

“After a melee involving staff from both technical areas, MacPhee is sent to the stand by referee Bobby Madden and joins manager Craig Levein, who was sent there earlier.

“Meanwhile, Accies boss Martin Canning hauls off MacKinnon and replaces him with Rakish Bingham.”

Hearts boss Craig Levein was sent off earlier in the match, as was Jambos youngster Jamie Brandon.

The controversial clash happened amid an eventful 24 hours for the capital side.

Yesterday Levein slaughtered ex-Hearts midfielder and SunSport columnist Michael Stewart in an astonishing rant.

And today’s kick-off was delayed 15 minutes after Tynecastle was evacuated before the match.