SPFL take no rap for riled Jags’ Tynie tears

THE SPFL last night absolved themselves of any blame over the Tynecastle stand row – then applauded Hearts for completing the building work on time.

Hearts’ “homecoming” Premiership game against Partick Thistle was finally given the all-clear at 9am on

Sunday morning, just six hours before kick-off as the new £12million structure was granted a safety certificate.

Thistle are extremely unhappy at the late timing of the decision and also feel the SPFL should have imposed a stricter deadline on Hearts.

But the SPFL have defended their position and admitted Hearts had indicated to them all along the match would go ahead.

An SPFL spokesman said: “It is our policy to ensure we give every possible opportunity for matches to proceed at their scheduled time.

“That applies in cases of inclement weather, fogbound pitches or, in this situation, to enable building works to be completed.

“Signs in the run-up to Sunday’s game, as well as the very regular updates we received, all indicated the match would be able to proceed as scheduled.

“We are grateful for the patience and understanding shown by both sets of fans as well as by the players and officials of each club.

“We congratulate Hearts on pulling out all the stops to have the stadium ready for Sunday’s game.

“We note Partick Thistle’s calls for a review into the events surrounding this game and will be in contact with them in due course to discuss their views.”