FANS MAKE A STAND
Supporters call for cuts to Old Firm tickets at home
St Mirren are considering cutting Celtic and Rangers’ ticket allocation as it has become“toxic” in the eyes of Buddies fans.
Saints chief John Needham expressed his views in a supporter Q&A where he discussed potential plans moving forward.
Visiting punters with both Glasgow giants are housed in the North Stand and Tony Fitzpatrick Family Stand when games are on.
And they are worth a decent cash windfall for St Mirren every visit.
For Needham, though, he aims to find an alternative financial resource to offset any possible ticket slashing should it come to fruition.
At their recent AGM Needham insisted the decision would be made “in the coming days” as the three games per season is worth around £120k to the Buddies.
“A number of members asked about the situation with the Old Firm fans being given the Tony Fitzpatrick Stand and what the club’s stance on it will be going forward,” was the answer on the fan Q&A.
According to smisa.net - the official supporters trust’s website - Mr Needham replied that he is as unhappy about that scenario as any supporter and is currently chairing a working group who have been examining alternative ways to recoup that revenue if the decision is taken to only give Celtic and Rangers one stand in future seasons.
The working group is expected to deliver their recommendations in the coming days.
John admits the club may need to take a financial hit in the short term but appreciates it has become a “toxic” matter in the eyes of many supporters and so it is about arriving at the best possible solution to a difficult problem.”
Needham has addressed the situation already this campaign and was again clear in telling fans the amount they could potentially lose in the short-term.