SFA’s token gesture has set the bar
The SFA handed Hearts and Partick Thistle a fine of £2,500 each as punishment for taking the SPFL’s decision to relegate them to court.
Considering the Hampden hierarchy had the power to expel both clubs from the game, and fine them up to £1million, the Jambos and the Jags got off lightly.
No way did I want to see them being dealt with more severely. Absolutely not.
But it does seem the amount is little more than a token gesture.
That said, the bar has now been set for any team wanting to challenge the SFA’s Articles Of Association, and go all the way to court if they feel aggrieved.
Hearts and Thistle pursued that option, but lost their case.
With the ruling from Hampden last Thursday, it is now vital we all draw a line under this and move on.
It dragged on and on and, at different times, was a wee bit embarrassing for the different people involved.
Both clubs have important campaigns ahead, and they will need to win promotion at the first time of asking.
Robbie Neilson is a good coach, and he will be itching to get his players back into action and ready for the Championship opener at home to Dundee in mid-October.
At Firhill, Ian McCall will be the same as he looks to get Thistle prepared and focused on getting out of League One.
There will still be anger and resentment in the air, but they need to put all their focus on winning games of football.
Anything else would be a waste of energy – and could be costly on the park.