SFA Chief Executive Ian Maxwell has slammed the "minority of supporters" who tarnished the Edinburgh derby last night with assaults on Hibernian manager Neil Lennon, Hearts goalkeeper Zdenek Zlamal and two match officials.

Maxwell confirmed that two of the officials on duty at Tynecastle were struck by objects, and he fully backed the capital clubs as they look to bring the offenders to justice.

A statement from Maxwell read: "Like many supporters across the country I took a keen interest in the Edinburgh Derby on Wednesday night.

"There are so many reasons for both clubs to be positive at the moment, such has been their recent success on the pitch.

"So it is with real regret that both have been let down by the actions of a minority of supporters, who crossed the line in what anyone would consider to be acceptable conduct.

"In addition to the well-documented incidents that saw Neil Lennon and Zdenek Zlamal left on the receiving end of cowardly attacks from the stands, I am sorry to confirm that two of our match officials were also struck by objects.

"Knowing the clubs involved as I do, I know no stone will be left unturned - in conjunction with the relevant authorities - to identify the individuals responsible and ensure the relevant steps are taken to leave them in no doubt that such actions will not be tolerated in Scottish football.

"Beyond that, we cannot accept that two assistant referees simply carrying out their duties are put in that position and I would like to commend their commitment and professionalism seeing the game through to its conclusion.

"I'm sure every supporter with Scottish football at heart will be similarly sickened by the actions of a few that risk tarnishing the reputation of so many.

We all have a responsibility to drive these sort of actions out of the game we love."