Four Lads hit out at SPFL after ‘Embarrassing’ new Rangers saga

The host of Four Lads Had a Dream, the official Rangers partner, Stevie Clifford, has taken aim at the SPFL’s decision about the Rangers’ away allocation for their December 30 visit to Celtic Park.

In a matter brought before the SPFL board, it was discovered that, although they agreed with Rangers’ perspective, they were unable to establish a fair away allocation since Celtic had not provided adequate supporting documentation. [Statement by Rangers]

This led to a continued refusal for away tickets to be sold for the Old Firm derby, a decision which Clifford has slammed, calling for an agreement on a reasonable allocation as has been seen when both clubs have played in Europe.

Clifford angrily declared, “I think it makes the governing bodies look pathetically weak in all honesty,” during an appearance on The Rangers Review on December 20.

From the perspective of the regulating body, it is highly embarrassing if you support a club and think they are right but are powerless to stop them.

“How is it marketed? I’m not sure. I would prefer to meet in the middle, therefore is there any chance that a European allocation could be feasible? I believe that’s where we should go if it’s convenient for our season ticket holders.

“But why should we be stuck in the corner with restricted views and things when we visit there? I must admit I thought it was very rich for Celtic to be saying it’s not safe at Ibrox – I’ve been to Parkhead and it’s a bit rich for them to take the moral high ground.

“But both sides are now entrenched in their positions. It would be nice if we could get it resolved, and it definitely does take away from the derby, but do you know what in terms of next week, just go there and beat them.”

A solution is in everybody’s best interest

Clifford is correct: the board’s admission that they concur with Rangers that a fair number of away tickets should be issued, but their continued deference to Celtic in the face of Celtic’s objections demonstrates a severe lack of decision-making at the top.

The presence of away supporters at Old Firm derbies undoubtedly contributes to the unique character of the game. An intense and vindictive match, when the supporters motivate both teams to do their hardest on the field. Something is lacking when there isn’t that crackling vibe.

Celtic’s demands of an increased allocation which would prevent a certain amount of season ticket holders from attending is unreasonable, but as is Rangers’ offer of an extremely limited allocation.

As has been suggested, a European allocation which would see the visiting fans fill the whole away end would make the most sense, but whether the clubs will swallow their pride and make that happen looks unlikely at this stage, and the SPFL certainly won’t step in.

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