CUP GAME DECISION BLOW FOR RAITH FANS

John McGlynn has described Celtic’s decision not to allow any Raith Rovers supporters to attend next week’s Premier Sports Cup quarterfinal as “disappointing”.

Celtic have cited ongoing Covid precautions and the positioning of season ticket holders as reasons.

While the decision is in keeping with the Hoops’ policy this term – no visiting supporters have been permitted for any fixture at Parkhead – the chances of achieving anything approaching a sell-out for the match-up would seem slim.

McGlynn, a former Celtic scout, was circumspect, but appreciates the frustration of the Rovers faithful after they were denied a first tip to Glasgow’s East End since a 2-0 defeat in September 2015.

“From the fans’ perspective, it’s disappointing,” McGlynn told Courier Sport.

“It’s been a while since Rovers have been given that opportunity.

“Paul (Smith, assistant manager) was telling me about the time Raith went there in 2012.

“I left a few months prior (to become Hearts manager) so didn’t experience it the last time we were there.

“That was close to a decade ago and I know the fans would have given us real backing in their numbers.

“It would have been nice for us to have that support, too, and give the supporters the chance to watch us play on that stage.

“But it’s a decision that has been made outwith our control and we’ll just need to accept that.”

Before McGlynn seeks to mastermind the unlikeliest of triumphs at Celtic Park next week, there is the not inconsequential challenge posed by Morton on Saturday.

On-loan Livingston attacker Matej Poplatnik is likely to miss the encounter with an ankle knock, further weakening an attacking pool already missing Aidan Connolly and Lewis Vaughan.