Hogmanay Old Firm clash is date with density

It can be murky, problematic and distasteful.

But a match between Rangers and Celtic deserves its place in Scotland’s festive calendar.

The clash between the country’s two biggest football clubs can, and should be, enjoyed responsibly.

The decision to play the match on Hogmanay though, is i ll- judged and potentially calamitous.

Today’s revelation that the date was chosen by computer explains a lot.

It’s not a conclusion many actual human beings would have been comfortable with.

That in turn makes the position of Police Scotland all the more curious.

Chief Constable Phil Gormley outlined his support for the idea last week in an interview with handpicked journalists – not ones whose sources his force illegally attempted to expose.

He pointed to the better transport available on the day and said December 31 was preferable to either of the first two days in January.

Mr Gormley does have experience in the policing of these matches.

He attended the first Old Firm match of the season and his force praised the behaviour of the fans.

That despite sectarian singing , revolting fan banners and displays and the destruction of stadium toilets.

For most with a working knowledge of Scotland’s Hogmanay, there is one concern which trumps every other consideration.

More a lcohol is consumed across the nation on New Year’s Eve than any other day in the year. By some distance. There is a lingering suspicion that while strides have been made in dealing with sectarianism and hate crime, Scotland may not yet be quite ready for this.

The days of a dram with the Bells are long gone. Drink is taken early and often.

Throwing the match into that mix is toxic – a fact acknowledged by the medical profession, the licensed trade, politicians, former professional players and Mr Gormley’s own rank and file.

Pubs and clubs in Ayrshire and Lanarkshire and Fife and Midlothian should be welcoming to all on Hogmanay including families and tourists.

A booze-fuelled Old Firm occasion and its often violent aftermath won’t be an easy fit.

A police force, which at times seems preoccupied with image and controlling the message, is on the verge of a potentially disastrous own goal.

It’s not too late to perform a U- turn – and say no to the computer.

Days of a dram with the Bells are long gone. Drink is taken early and often